tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44066385601739676972024-03-13T07:03:50.042-04:00A Cupcake Love AffairHeather @ A Cupcake Love Affairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06837791029345719311noreply@blogger.comBlogger71125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4406638560173967697.post-4880101026455724622012-09-20T06:00:00.000-04:002012-09-20T06:00:00.656-04:00Farewell Summer ~ S'mores Cookie BarsHey friends! I know it's been a while and I'm sorry I've been MIA. I'm getting over some yucky sickness and am ready to share a delicious recipe to celebrate the ending of summer. First, I want to wish my beautiful mom a happy birthday! I am so blessed to have such an awesome mom and don't know what I'd do without her!! (Birthday cupcakes will be posted later this week...)<br />
<br />
As it draws closer to fall, we have just a few evenings left to enjoy the warm weather and what better way to do so than with a fun dessert with elements of a summer favorite? I shared this a couple weeks ago over at <a href="http://oneartsymama.com/">One Artsy Mama</a> and am now sharing it with all of you....<br />
<br />
S'mores Cookie Bars...just the name makes my mouth water! You start with a buttery graham cracker crust, fill with your favorite cookie recipe, and top with toasted marshmallows. Simple, but fabulous!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B6NoZQbAvR8/UEO-gUyTkOI/AAAAAAAABOA/3vn6tUZFQrs/s1600/S'moresBars2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B6NoZQbAvR8/UEO-gUyTkOI/AAAAAAAABOA/3vn6tUZFQrs/s400/S'moresBars2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A plate full of yumminess!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<b>S'mores Cookie Bars</b><br />
<b><br />
</b> For the crust:<br />
<br />
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 10 crackers)<br />
1/3 cup sugar<br />
6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter<br />
<br />
Mix all ingredients together with a fork and press into the bottom of a nine inch square pan. I then added a layer of semi sweet chocolate chips and white chocolate chips...you know...cuz you can never have enough chocolate!<br />
<br />
For the cookies, I used my new favorite gluten free chocolate chunk cookie mix. I know that the graham crackers aren't gluten free so this can't be labeled GF but I just really love this mix! If you have a favorite mix or homemade cookie recipe, feel free to use it! The one I use is a Pamela's gluten free mix that is just fabulous!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-22yD-X32Tso/UEOL1iyJ_1I/AAAAAAAABM8/aZ1G677Kxe8/s1600/Pamela'sCookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-22yD-X32Tso/UEOL1iyJ_1I/AAAAAAAABM8/aZ1G677Kxe8/s320/Pamela'sCookies.jpg" width="154" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://pamelasproducts.com/product/Pamelas_Chocolate_Chunk_Cookies_Mix/13196.aspx">Source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Carefully press the cookie dough over the chocolate chips and crust and bake at 350 degrees until cookies are just about finished (literally, <i>just about </i>finished). I pulled mine out when they were starting to brown on the edges but still soft in the center (I like my cookies soft and chewy...not crispy). Top with marshmallows and place under the broiler until toasted. Once cooled, cut and serve brownies, and be ready for the sighs of bliss. I also added broken up graham crackers and pieces of a milk chocolate bar. Seriously, these are just delicious! Obviously, you could also make S'mores Brownies by replacing the cookie dough with your favorite brownie batter....yum!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xSPbrUvfo4Q/UEO-hFK7WTI/AAAAAAAABOI/RcFR3qYItEs/s1600/S%2527moresBars3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="257" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xSPbrUvfo4Q/UEO-hFK7WTI/AAAAAAAABOI/RcFR3qYItEs/s320/S%2527moresBars3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I don't know about you all but I'm totally excited about fall being just around the corner! It's my favorite time of year, especially for baking - pumpkin, cinnamon, sweet potatoes, apples, molasses - oh man! I just can't wait!!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Until next time, happy reading and more importantly, happy cupcake-ing!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9PZvNK9omrU/UEKrnoMkcEI/AAAAAAAABJs/KclPC1cXEmc/s1600/NewSig.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9PZvNK9omrU/UEKrnoMkcEI/AAAAAAAABJs/KclPC1cXEmc/s1600/NewSig.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Heather @ A Cupcake Love Affairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06837791029345719311noreply@blogger.com66tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4406638560173967697.post-58320430139231101412012-09-12T08:00:00.000-04:002012-09-12T08:00:11.392-04:00Fabulous GF Deals!<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">I'm so excited to share some exciting news with you today! I've found an awesome website that sells TONS of GF (and other nutrition) products at really great prices. Anyone who's had to or just decided to change their diet to a more healthful way of eating knows that it can get pretty expensive. As a coupon shopper who buys by the sales flyer I am always looking for a better deal and it's gotten harder since I've gone gluten free. Well, I have good news, my friends! </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><a href="http://vitacost.com/">Vitacost.com</a> has fantastic deals and a huge selection! I love the products from Pamela's and Bob's Red Mill but have been a little overwhelmed when it comes time to pay the bills. No more! Look at what I got in the mail yesterday...</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cqYkCwQpm4E/UE_MHwMrDjI/AAAAAAAABSA/bNKLap0lpVE/s1600/GFmixes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="408" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cqYkCwQpm4E/UE_MHwMrDjI/AAAAAAAABSA/bNKLap0lpVE/s640/GFmixes.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">Trust me...I did a little happy dance when I opened this box! There are 15 different GF mixes, flours, and other baking ingredients here and I can't wait to try each and every one! Now, here's the best part. The retail value of this package is around $85...throw in shipping costs and its easily $100. Don't worry...I didn't pay that much and you won't have to either. Thanks to their awesome referral program and shipping discounts, I got the entire box full for $49.34! I know! </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">Wanna get these awesome products at these fabulous prices? Just follow the link below for your $10 discount and check the site for deals on shipping! You won't be disappointed, I promise!! </span></span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.vitacost.com/Referee?wlsrc=rsReferral&ReferralCode=90514797" style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Geneva, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19px;">Vitacost Referral Program</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Be watching for some yummy goodness using these products soon! Until next time, happy reading and more importantly, happy GF baking!!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GqM356kOSDU/UE_NiWv8pMI/AAAAAAAABSI/7Fc3iEXntms/s1600/NewSig.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GqM356kOSDU/UE_NiWv8pMI/AAAAAAAABSI/7Fc3iEXntms/s1600/NewSig.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>This post was not a sponsored post. The opinions are 100% mine and I received no compensation in exchange for writing it. </i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Heather @ A Cupcake Love Affairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06837791029345719311noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4406638560173967697.post-16593410710980191222012-09-06T06:00:00.000-04:002012-09-06T06:00:14.366-04:00Salted Caramel Apple {Cupcakes}<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Good morning, friends! A couple weeks ago I was a guest over at <a href="http://waittilyourfathergetshome.com/">Wait Til Your Father Gets Home</a> for Meredith's Back to School series. When she asked me to be a guest I immediately started researching a fun, delicious back to school treat and I think you're gonna love what I came up with!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You know the whole thing about apples and teachers? Well, today I'm sharing with you a treat that is sure to give your kids "teacher's pet" status! Here it is...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Salted Caramel Apple {Cupcakes} for Teacher</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I know, I know...does it get any better than this?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3DIVTOwLdkc/UDQraLWkQvI/AAAAAAAABBY/zS0gFxJy4XY/s1600/applecupcakes3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3DIVTOwLdkc/UDQraLWkQvI/AAAAAAAABBY/zS0gFxJy4XY/s400/applecupcakes3.jpg" width="343" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These are so fun and delicious. You don't even have to be a teacher to enjoy them! Moist, apple spice cupcakes, topped with salted caramel buttercream, dipped in royal icing with a pretzel and green candy for the finishing touch. What teacher wouldn't be delighted to have one of these beauties sitting on her desk?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Spiced Apple Cupcakes </b>(This is a <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/341937/apple-cupcakes">Martha Stewart</a> recipe that I made no changes to because, well, it's practically perfect just as it is)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul class="content-multigroup-group-ingredient" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; line-height: 12px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<li class="ingredient first" style="border: 0px; line-height: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 6px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="border: 0px; line-height: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 6px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2 teaspoons baking soda</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="border: 0px; line-height: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 6px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2 teaspoons ground cinnamon</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="border: 0px; line-height: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 6px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="border: 0px; line-height: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 6px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 teaspoon salt</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="border: 0px; line-height: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 6px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="border: 0px; line-height: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 6px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2 cups sugar</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="border: 0px; line-height: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 6px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2 large eggs</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="border: 0px; line-height: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 6px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 teaspoon vanilla extract</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="border: 0px; line-height: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 6px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">4 cups coarsely shredded apples (I used 3 granny smith and 3 red delicious)</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<ul class="content-multigroup-group-ingredient" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; line-height: 12px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<li class="ingredient" style="border: 0px; line-height: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 6px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line standard muffin tins with paper liners; set aside. Whisk together flour, </span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="border: 0px; line-height: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 6px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a medium bowl; set aside.</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="border: 0px; line-height: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 6px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="border: 0px; line-height: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 6px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Cream butter and sugar on medium-high speed in the bowl of a mixer fitted with the paddle until pale and </span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="border: 0px; line-height: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 6px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">fluffy, about 5 minutes. Mix in eggs and vanilla.</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="border: 0px; line-height: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 6px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="border: 0px; line-height: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 6px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Reduce speed to low; mix in apples. Add flour mixture; mix, scraping down sides of bowl as needed, until</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="border: 0px; line-height: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 6px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> just combined.</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="border: 0px; line-height: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 6px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="border: 0px; line-height: 16px; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 6px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Fill lined cups halfway with batter; bake until tops are springy to the touch, 18 to 20 minutes.</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 16px;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 16px;"><b>Salted Caramel Buttercream</b> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 16px;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 16px;">2 sticks salted butter</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 16px;">2 cups dark brown sugar</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 16px;">2/3 cup heavy cream</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 16px;">1/2 teaspoon salt</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 16px;">3 cups powdered sugar</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 16px;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 16px;">Melt butter in med saucepan. Add brown sugar and heavy cream and stir until sugar is dissolved. Add salt. Continue stirring and let bubble for one minute. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 16px;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 16px;">Remove from heat and let cool while stirring. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 16px;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 16px;">Mix in powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until desired consistency is reached. Cover with plastic wrap, touching icing, until ready to use. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 16px;"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WZLjwD57MVk/UDQvu_pcq0I/AAAAAAAABCY/Juae92uFpvc/s1600/applecupcakes2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WZLjwD57MVk/UDQvu_pcq0I/AAAAAAAABCY/Juae92uFpvc/s400/applecupcakes2.jpg" width="370" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To make each "apple", pipe buttercream onto cupcake with a round tip, starting on the outside, moving inward in a circular motion. Don't over-frost. The icing is very rich so a little goes a long way. Plus, you don't want it to be too heavy when it comes time to dip into <a href="http://www.wilton.com/recipe/Royal-Icing">royal icing</a>. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Let iced cupcakes rest a little while, allowing the buttercream to form a crust. Then, carefully dip into thinned out, red royal icing, gently shaking off any excess before turning over. For the "stem", break a pretzel stick in half and insert into top of cupcake before icing sets. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For the "leaves" I used spearmint leaf candies and cut them into smaller leaf shapes. You can free hand this. It shouldn't be stressful or hard...just make a basic, triangular leaf shape and don't worry about them matching perfectly. Attach leaf next to the "stem" and refrigerate cupcakes to allow royal icing to set.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zg1Pumwjc9Y/UDQvuKZt4PI/AAAAAAAABCQ/DnJb2s9c0Vo/s1600/applecupcakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="376" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zg1Pumwjc9Y/UDQvuKZt4PI/AAAAAAAABCQ/DnJb2s9c0Vo/s640/applecupcakes.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 16px;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 16px;">Voila! The perfect bushel of beautiful red apples! I hope you enjoy making these as much as I did. The look on your kids and their teacher's faces will be well worth the work...I promise!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Until next time, happy reading and more importantly, happy cupcake-ing!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lt93JgitMz4/UEfuMjjUFPI/AAAAAAAABRE/ObmeXr4ccFM/s1600/NewSig.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lt93JgitMz4/UEfuMjjUFPI/AAAAAAAABRE/ObmeXr4ccFM/s1600/NewSig.png" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Heather @ A Cupcake Love Affairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06837791029345719311noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4406638560173967697.post-81782392433796830042012-09-03T17:22:00.000-04:002012-09-03T17:22:31.924-04:00Bring on Fall With Gluten Free Chocolate Chip Pumpkin MuffinsHey friends! I hope you're all enjoying the long weekend with your family and friends. I headed over to my sister's to help her get the baby's room set up. Today I'm sharing a fabulous gluten free recipe with all of you. As you know, I recently found out that I have a gluten sensitivity so I've had to learn a whole new way of eating. I've already shared <a href="http://www.cupcakeloveaffair.blogspot.com/2012/08/just-meand-gf-blueberry-muffins.html">GF Blueberry Muffins</a> and <a href="http://www.cupcakeloveaffair.blogspot.com/2012/08/gf-chocolate-cherry-cheesecake.html">GF Chocolate Cherry Cheesecake</a> which was a huge hit at my office.<br />
<br />
Today's GF recipe is for Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Muffins in honor of my favorite season just around the corner - fall! I absolutely love this time of year - the changing leaves, beautiful colors, and all of the wonderful fall flavors and scents. I pretty much love pumpkin anything so when I found this recipe I just had to try it! If you've never tried combining chocolate and pumpkin you MUST! The two of them together is a match made in heaven.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7hAG8J2iAl8/UEP-ULzHIII/AAAAAAAABPE/MkNaXoE5T0A/s1600/GFCCPumpkin+Muffins2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7hAG8J2iAl8/UEP-ULzHIII/AAAAAAAABPE/MkNaXoE5T0A/s400/GFCCPumpkin+Muffins2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>GF Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Muffins </b>(<a href="http://www.bookofyum.com/blog/dairy-free-gluten-free-pumpkin-bread-for-your-little-goblins-and-grown-ups-too-8072.html">source</a>)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 16px;">2 cups white rice flour </span><br style="line-height: 16px;" /><span style="line-height: 16px;">1 1/2 tsp. baking powder</span><br style="line-height: 16px;" /><span style="line-height: 16px;">1/2 tsp. baking soda</span><br style="line-height: 16px;" /><span style="line-height: 16px;">1/4 tsp. salt</span><br style="line-height: 16px;" /><span style="line-height: 16px;">1/2 C brown sugar</span><br style="line-height: 16px;" /><span style="line-height: 16px;">1/4 cup white sugar</span><br style="line-height: 16px;" /><span style="line-height: 16px;">1/2 tsp cinnamon</span><br style="line-height: 16px;" /><span style="line-height: 16px;">1/2 tsp nutmeg</span><br style="line-height: 16px;" /><span style="line-height: 16px;">1/4 tsp clove</span><br style="line-height: 16px;" /><span style="line-height: 16px;">1/4 tsp allspice</span><br style="line-height: 16px;" /><span style="line-height: 16px;">2 eggs, beaten</span><br style="line-height: 16px;" /><span style="line-height: 16px;">1/2 tsp GF vanilla </span><br style="line-height: 16px;" /><span style="line-height: 16px;">1 1/2 cups canned pumpkin puree</span><br style="line-height: 16px;" /><span style="line-height: 16px;">1/2 cup canola oil</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 16px;">1 cup semi sweet chocolate chips</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 0px;">
</div>
<div style="line-height: 16px; padding: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Optional: Sprinkle top with raw sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Preheat oven to 375F. Prepare a muffin pan by either greasing with shortening or lining with liners.</span><br />
<div style="padding: 0px;">
</div>
<div style="padding: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Combine dry ingredients in a large bowl and whisk together. Make a well in the center and add your eggs, vanilla, pumpkin, and canola oil. Gently fold ingredients together. When combined, spoon into your pan. If desired you can sprinkle top with raw sugar and more chocolate chips. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.</span></div>
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OVlEoFd1qAk/UEP-U_QsbGI/AAAAAAAABPM/BmAw2MJUtYI/s1600/GFCCPumpkinMuffins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="275" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OVlEoFd1qAk/UEP-U_QsbGI/AAAAAAAABPM/BmAw2MJUtYI/s400/GFCCPumpkinMuffins.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
These are really tasty and only get better with time. All the flavors combine really well and come out stronger a day or two after baking.<br />
<br />
I'm finding that living gluten free really isn't all that hard and I feel so much better! I encourage you, if you're having any health issues and nothing is working - medicines, therapy, doctor visits - PLEASE look at what you're eating and see if there's something you can change. It is working so well for me and so many others!!<br />
<br />
Be sure to stop by <a href="http://www.oneartsymama.com/2012/09/fun-in-sun-heather.html">One Artsy Mama</a> where yours truly is sharing a delicious S'mores Cookie Bars recipe!!<br />
<br />
Until next time, happy reading and more importantly, happy cupcake-ing!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a-D0Ow5nT9A/UEUfPTjcCkI/AAAAAAAABQI/J5r8s7LrpFQ/s1600/NewSig.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a-D0Ow5nT9A/UEUfPTjcCkI/AAAAAAAABQI/J5r8s7LrpFQ/s1600/NewSig.png" /></a></div>
Heather @ A Cupcake Love Affairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06837791029345719311noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4406638560173967697.post-49650113241708632652012-09-01T21:26:00.005-04:002012-09-01T21:26:54.212-04:00I'm a Blog Angel<br />
<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5_8cq1C7ACs/UEK0bgRZY4I/AAAAAAAABL0/6emg3m9jP1w/s1600/BlogAngel.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5_8cq1C7ACs/UEK0bgRZY4I/AAAAAAAABL0/6emg3m9jP1w/s320/BlogAngel.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Hey friends! Remember back in June when I posted about being a blog angel? Well, I signed up again for the month of August and it's time for the big reveal. I lost all track of time and forgot about the midway post (duh!) but here I am with the reveal post....<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="Oh Hey Brittany" height="220" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FqIJqQroEMI/T6XdZKgkfhI/AAAAAAAAAHQ/QFNWt4ofX_A/s400/FotoFlexer_Photo.jpg" width="400" />
</div>
<br />
Meet my angel-ee (yes, that is the official term)! I was an angel to a sweet girl named Brittany over at <a href="http://brittanypigg.blogspot.com/">Oh Hey Brittany</a>! She's super cute and fairly new to the blog world so be sure to stop by, say hello, and show her some support and encouragement. I did my best to comment whenever she posted and shared, shared, shared on facebook and twitter. My last act as her angel is to offer her a one month ad space on my blog to spread the word!<br />
<br />
If you haven't been a part of the awesome Blog Angel event before, make sure to stop by <a href="http://www.craftbotic.com/">Craftbotic</a> and check it out. The next round starts in October so don't miss out on the opportunity to be blessed and, more importantly, be a blessing to someone else!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5bUWgA508zE/UC48nNAPP5I/AAAAAAAAAr8/CRXCIQa7cdA/s1600/Blog+Angels+October.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5bUWgA508zE/UC48nNAPP5I/AAAAAAAAAr8/CRXCIQa7cdA/s1600/Blog+Angels+October.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Until next time, happy reading and more importantly, happy cupcake-ing!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0DND04nsvBU/UEK0-GVnqlI/AAAAAAAABL8/YFaly2j_ny4/s1600/NewSig.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0DND04nsvBU/UEK0-GVnqlI/AAAAAAAABL8/YFaly2j_ny4/s1600/NewSig.png" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />Heather @ A Cupcake Love Affairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06837791029345719311noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4406638560173967697.post-77326670181074907532012-08-30T06:00:00.000-04:002012-08-30T06:00:07.375-04:00GF Chocolate Cherry CheesecakeHey friends! Today I'm sharing another delicious gluten free recipe. And, seriously, I mean delicious. It was for another birthday at work and the birthday boy loves cheesecake, chocolate, and cherry pie. Sooo...I decided to put them all together into one fabulous dessert!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--wiPQ-aQpMw/UD63o3g8TYI/AAAAAAAABHw/vgLpg9SIXJQ/s1600/ChocolateCherryCheesecake2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="348" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--wiPQ-aQpMw/UD63o3g8TYI/AAAAAAAABHw/vgLpg9SIXJQ/s400/ChocolateCherryCheesecake2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Doesn't that look heavenly? It consists of a brownie crust, creamy cheesecake, cherry pie filling, and a milk chocolate drizzle. Now, a fellow co-worker and myself are both eating gluten free so I wanted to make sure that we could partake. I turned to my new favorite baking mix company - Pamela's - and used the Chocolate Brownie Mix for the crust.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pNk-UC04uw8/UD64-Uc2ofI/AAAAAAAABH4/elVgsTtevHw/s1600/BrownieMix.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pNk-UC04uw8/UD64-Uc2ofI/AAAAAAAABH4/elVgsTtevHw/s320/BrownieMix.jpg" width="140" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pamelasproducts.com/product/Pamelas_Chocolate_Brownie_Mix/13194.aspx">Image Source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I followed the regular brownie recipe on the package and poured it into a springform pan. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For the cheesecake I followed a fabulous Ina Garten recipe, only using the part for the filling...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Cheesecake </b>(adapted from <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/raspberry-cheesecake-recipe/index.html">here</a>)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul class="kv-ingred-list1" style="background-color: white; line-height: 15px; margin: 0px 0px 14px; outline: none; padding: 0px;">
<li class="ingredient" style="line-height: 23px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2 1/2 pounds cream cheese, at room temperature</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="line-height: 23px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 1/2 cups sugar</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="line-height: 23px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">5 whole extra-large eggs, at room temperature</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="line-height: 23px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2 extra-large egg yolks, at room temperature</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="line-height: 23px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1/4 cup sour cream</span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="line-height: 23px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 tablespoon grated lemon zest </span></li>
<li class="ingredient" style="line-height: 23px; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 23px;">Preheat oven to 450 degrees.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 23px;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 23px;">Cream the </span>cream cheese<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 23px;"> and </span>sugar<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 23px;"> in the</span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 23px;"> bowl of an electric </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">mixer</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 23px;"> fitted with a paddle attachment on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Reduce the speed of the mixer to medium and add the </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">eggs</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 23px;"> and egg yolks, 2 at a time, mixing well. Scrape down the bowl and beater, as necessary. With the mixer on low, add the sour cream, lemon zest, and vanilla.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"> Pour over unbaked brownie batter.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 23px;">Bake for 15 minutes. Turn the oven temperature down to 225 degrees F and bake for another 1 hour and 15 minutes. Turn the oven off and open the door wide. The </span>cake<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 23px;"> will not be completely set in the center. Allow the cake to sit in the oven with the door open for 30 minutes. Take the cake out of the oven and allow it to sit at room temperature for another 2 to 3 hours, until completely cooled. Remember, cake will NOT be completely set in the center at this point. It WILL set up in the refrigerator. Wrap and refrigerate overnight.</span></span>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 23px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 23px;">Remove the cake from the springform pan by carefully running a hot knife around the outside of the cake. Leave the cake on the bottom of the springform pan for serving. Top with your favorite GF cherry pie filling ( I used Lucky Leaf ) and drizzle with melted milk chocolate.</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 23px;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LQVJ6mI5gK8/UD6-Tg9VdvI/AAAAAAAABIw/Jw44Z1ZHf-4/s1600/ChocolateCherryCheesecake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LQVJ6mI5gK8/UD6-Tg9VdvI/AAAAAAAABIw/Jw44Z1ZHf-4/s400/ChocolateCherryCheesecake.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Yes, this cheesecake IS as good as it looks. And, GF-ers, feel free to indulge without any repercussions. Well, at least, gluten-related repercussions. I can't account for your scale reading changing or clothes not fitting quite right. I'm not a miracle worker after all! :) Enjoy!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Until next time, happy reading and more importantly, happy cupcake-ing!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" /></a></div>
Heather @ A Cupcake Love Affairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06837791029345719311noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4406638560173967697.post-28464088236525507292012-08-27T06:00:00.000-04:002012-08-27T06:00:03.550-04:00She's Ready to POP ~ A Baby Shower for My SisterThat's right...it's time for the big shower reveal. SO much work was involved in making this day special for my sister but it was completely worth it!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7kzF_KdFU14/UDqjTF0CwwI/AAAAAAAABF8/Z0o0uKJwivc/s1600/BabyShowerMe&Cam.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7kzF_KdFU14/UDqjTF0CwwI/AAAAAAAABF8/Z0o0uKJwivc/s320/BabyShowerMe&Cam.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me & the Mommy-to-Be</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />We are so excited and can't wait to meet Skylar Jayde in about 8 weeks or so! About 40 women gathered together to celebrate her anticipated arrival and lots of fun ensued. We had tons of "POP" themed food....<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YkOxH4Wzk4A/UDqjOyNvBJI/AAAAAAAABFU/meU0seINFWQ/s1600/BabyShower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YkOxH4Wzk4A/UDqjOyNvBJI/AAAAAAAABFU/meU0seINFWQ/s640/BabyShower.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Can't believe I didn't notice the foil over the POPcorn chicken before taking this picture!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />The savories...<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uImAnrf2Grg/UDqjUseV6nI/AAAAAAAABGM/ayifGUf1nIw/s1600/BabyShowerMushrooms.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="373" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uImAnrf2Grg/UDqjUseV6nI/AAAAAAAABGM/ayifGUf1nIw/s400/BabyShowerMushrooms.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stuffed Mushroom "POP"pers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Prtwc632_sU/UDqjYBd1omI/AAAAAAAABGs/9A5slU61NtY/s1600/BabyShowerSandwiches.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Prtwc632_sU/UDqjYBd1omI/AAAAAAAABGs/9A5slU61NtY/s400/BabyShowerSandwiches.jpg" width="361" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ham & Swiss and Turkey & Cheddar "POP"py Seed Sliders</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w7P0QnL5T48/UDqjZERv2KI/AAAAAAAABG0/O8jcfpC_lB4/s1600/BabyShowerVeg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w7P0QnL5T48/UDqjZERv2KI/AAAAAAAABG0/O8jcfpC_lB4/s400/BabyShowerVeg.jpg" width="357" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"POP" Some Veggies - had to get creative with that one!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />As was mentioned before we also had popcorn chicken but I didn't get a picture of that.<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The sweets....</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A96llnqF22c/UDqjQ74JUWI/AAAAAAAABFk/jx5qAIz94XQ/s1600/BabyShowerCandy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A96llnqF22c/UDqjQ74JUWI/AAAAAAAABFk/jx5qAIz94XQ/s400/BabyShowerCandy.jpg" width="301" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blow "POP"s, "POP" Rocks, and "POP" some Bubble Gum</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dp_gZguw0SM/UDqjSXSoP0I/AAAAAAAABF0/gfDbzFyHUVA/s1600/BabyShowerFruit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dp_gZguw0SM/UDqjSXSoP0I/AAAAAAAABF0/gfDbzFyHUVA/s400/BabyShowerFruit.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fruit "POP"s</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1t4O3im-4Hw/UDqjTp2n54I/AAAAAAAABGE/dJJn1bqr2Fk/s1600/BabyShowerMuffins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1t4O3im-4Hw/UDqjTp2n54I/AAAAAAAABGE/dJJn1bqr2Fk/s400/BabyShowerMuffins.jpg" width="356" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lemon "POP"py Seed Muffins</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hMdL3M8s2Ac/UDqjV_Wm-dI/AAAAAAAABGU/X04vxxpV_V0/s1600/BabyShowerPopcorn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hMdL3M8s2Ac/UDqjV_Wm-dI/AAAAAAAABGU/X04vxxpV_V0/s400/BabyShowerPopcorn.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">White Chocolate "POP"corn</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CAkAh-2y6J8/UDqjWjkEIMI/AAAAAAAABGc/3ceI9lAbP1M/s1600/BabyShowerPretzels.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CAkAh-2y6J8/UDqjWjkEIMI/AAAAAAAABGc/3ceI9lAbP1M/s400/BabyShowerPretzels.jpg" width="357" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretzel "POP"s</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qh-zRnJUIUM/UDqjXf-mf3I/AAAAAAAABGk/aryk50VFytM/s1600/BabyShowerRiceKrispies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qh-zRnJUIUM/UDqjXf-mf3I/AAAAAAAABGk/aryk50VFytM/s400/BabyShowerRiceKrispies.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Snap, Crackle, and "POP" Treats</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />We also had Soda POP, Mini Cupcakes topped with Bubble Gum, and bottles of water in a cooler with frozen pink and green water balloons as ice. Unfortunately, I was so busy that day that I forgot to get photos of these things. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The decorations...</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SrYvLtof_U8/UDqjRhi8syI/AAAAAAAABFs/6ygxO0l8K50/s1600/BabyShowerCenterpiece.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="397" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SrYvLtof_U8/UDqjRhi8syI/AAAAAAAABFs/6ygxO0l8K50/s400/BabyShowerCenterpiece.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Above the food table</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />For the centerpiece above the table I made tissue paper pom poms and hung them with fishing wire. The "S" was made using a large white wooden letter from Michaels that I decorated with pink and green washi tape. The inspiration came from <a href="http://www.oneartsymama.com/2012/04/washi-tape-monogram-canvas.html">this</a> post over at One Artsy Mama.<br /><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-09XualzKR4Q/UDqjQESTKLI/AAAAAAAABFc/nA2bnAspgrs/s1600/BabyShowerBunting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-09XualzKR4Q/UDqjQESTKLI/AAAAAAAABFc/nA2bnAspgrs/s400/BabyShowerBunting.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Skylar" Bunting in background</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />I'm so mad at myself that I forgot to snap a photo of the "POP on in" sign that we hung on the front door. My mom and I made it using a sheet of chalkboard "paper" I got from PYP. We framed it with a white wooden frame from Michaels and then put a fancy pink lace tape border around the chalkboard and decorated the border with pink and green flower stickers. The description doesn't do it justice!<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We also played a few games. The first was a party standard that, I'm sure, will be familiar to you all. I filled a pink bottle with green M&Ms and had the ladies write down their guess of how many were in the bottle. The winner got to keep the bottle of candy. Next was the "He Said/She Said Pop Quiz. This was so fun. I asked 10 questions about Skylar and my sister and BIL both answered each one. The ladies at the party had to guess who gave which answer. The winner of this game got a $10 Publix gift card. An easy game was a Thank You envelope raffle. We had each guest write their name and address on an envelope that my sis can later use to send her thank you cards and then put them in a bowl and I picked a winner. This winner got a stationary and pen set. The last game was Things That POP. Guests were given two minutes to write down everything they could think of that POPs. This was too funny! The winner had 14 items and got a POPcorn gift pack as her prize.<br /><div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I got lots of inspiration from all over the internet and am so happy with how it all turned out. My sis had a blast and knows beyond a shadow of a doubt that she, my brother-in-law, and that precious little baby are truly loved and have plenty of support for the days ahead!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Until next time, happy reading and more importantly, happy cupcake-ing!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
Heather @ A Cupcake Love Affairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06837791029345719311noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4406638560173967697.post-11271419663537775772012-08-24T06:00:00.000-04:002012-08-24T06:00:01.290-04:00Muffins & Sliders That POP!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hey there! It never slows down around here but I hope you guys are having a great week! I've been praying about a specific area in my life recently and God may have opened a door today which is really exciting! Even if that specific door isn't quite where I'm supposed to go, the possibility has caused me to find some exciting things and my life is going to be getting a lot more busy soon - scary....but exciting! More on that later......</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For now, I'm sharing with you two more recipes from the baby shower. First up - Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins. Sweet and tangy. Moist and fluffy. They're the perfect on-the-go summer breakfast - paired with your favorite cup of coffee. Or, in the evening, a refreshing end to that summer picnic. Who doesn't love one of these? They're beautiful to look at and delicious to eat! They also happen to be a favorite of mine and my sister's.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y_Yc5pTnJa8/UCMXBeeU7BI/AAAAAAAAA5U/HRRmSHwJTfU/s1600/LPSMuffins1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y_Yc5pTnJa8/UCMXBeeU7BI/AAAAAAAAA5U/HRRmSHwJTfU/s400/LPSMuffins1.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Lemon Poppy Seed Muffins with Lemon Glaze</b> (original <a href="http://www.pickycook.com/breakfastandbrunch/lemonpoppyseedmuffinswithlemonglaze.aspx">here</a>)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2/3 cup sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
grated zest of 2 lemons</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
juice of 1 lemon</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 cups AP flour</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 teaspoons baking powder</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/4 teaspoon baking soda</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/4 teaspoon salt</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3/4 cup sour cream</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 eggs</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 stick unsalted butter, melted and cooled</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 tablespoons poppy seeds</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
For the icing:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 cup confectioner's sugar</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2-3 tablespoons lemon juice</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Preheat oven to 400 degrees and prepare muffin pan. Rub together lemon zest and sugar until sugar is moist and the smell of lemon is strong. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt with sugar-lemon zest mixture until well blended. In another bowl, whisk together sour cream, eggs, vanilla, lemon juice, and butter until blended and pour over dry ingredients. Stir gently with spatula, being careful not to overmix. Gently stir in poppy seeds. Fill muffin pans (each liner about 2/3 full) and bake about 18-20 minutes until lightly browned and tester inserted in center comes out clean. Leave in pans 5 minutes then remove and cool completely before icing.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
To make the icing, p<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 24px;">ut the confectioner's sugar in a small bowl and add about 1 1/2 tablespoons of the lemon juice. Stir with a spoon to moisten the sugar, then add enough lemon juice, a dribble at a time, to get an icing that is thin enough to drizzle from the tip of the spoon. Then drizzle lines of icing over the tops of the muffins or coat the tops entirely.</span></span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Here's what they looked like at the party:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nIKq1oktIrk/UDa86x2PXXI/AAAAAAAABDY/ukyK_P2Il5w/s1600/BabyShowerMuffins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nIKq1oktIrk/UDa86x2PXXI/AAAAAAAABDY/ukyK_P2Il5w/s320/BabyShowerMuffins.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Sorry they aren't clearer. I forgot to take a close up of them at the party. Don't you just love those polka dot liners? I think they are super cute. <a href="http://www.pickyourplum.com/">PYP</a> had them in four different colors and, yes, I bought all three! :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Second, we have Ham & Swiss Poppy Seed Sliders and Turkey & Cheddar Poppy Seed Sliders. Again, sorry about the unclear photo. I was so busy that day that I didn't get close-ups of everything. Most things. But not everything.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b>Poppy Seed Sliders </b>(<a href="http://www.the-girl-who-ate-everything.com/2010/04/ham-and-cheese-sliders.html">source</a>)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.78333282470703px; text-align: left;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.78333282470703px; text-align: left;">24 good white dinner rolls</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.78333282470703px; text-align: left;">24 pieces good honey ham</span><br style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.78333282470703px; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.78333282470703px; text-align: left;">24 small slices Swiss cheese</span><br style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.78333282470703px; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.78333282470703px; text-align: left;">1/3 cup mayonnaise</span><br style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.78333282470703px; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.78333282470703px; text-align: left;">1/3 cup miracle whip</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.78333282470703px; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.78333282470703px; text-align: left;">Poppy seed sauce:</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.78333282470703px; text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.78333282470703px; text-align: left;">1 Tablespoon poppyseeds</span><br style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.78333282470703px; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.78333282470703px; text-align: left;">1 1/2 Tablespoons yellow mustard</span><br style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.78333282470703px; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.78333282470703px; text-align: left;">1/2 cup butter, melted</span><br style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.78333282470703px; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.78333282470703px; text-align: left;">1 Tablespoon minced onion</span><br style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.78333282470703px; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.78333282470703px; text-align: left;">1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce</span>
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.78333282470703px; text-align: left;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.78333282470703px; text-align: left;">In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise and miracle whip. Spread onto both sides of the center of each roll. Place a slice of ham and a slice of Swiss inside of each roll. Close rolls and place them into a large baking dish or heavy cookie sheet. Place very close together.</span><br style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.78333282470703px; text-align: left;" /><br style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.78333282470703px; text-align: left;" /><span style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 20.78333282470703px; text-align: left;">In a medium bowl, whisk together all of the poppy seed sauce ingredients. Pour evenly over all of the sandwiches. You do not have to use all of the sauce! Just use enough to cover the tops. Let sit 10 minutes or until butter sets slightly. Cover with foil and bake at 350 degrees for 12-15 minutes or until cheese is melted. Uncover and cook for 2 additional minutes or until tops are slightly brown and crispy. Serve warm.</span></span>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UikzEiyqGBs/UDa7I3qhfoI/AAAAAAAABDQ/9c81rs2O6TE/s1600/BabyShowerSandwiches.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UikzEiyqGBs/UDa7I3qhfoI/AAAAAAAABDQ/9c81rs2O6TE/s400/BabyShowerSandwiches.jpg" width="361" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Tomorrow I'll share a few decoration projects I did (I know, me, the non-DIYer) that will make you all proud. Be sure to stop by <a href="http://www.waittilyourfathergetshome.com/">Wait Til Your Father Gets Home</a> where I'm guest posting today and read about these delicious Salted Caramel Apple Cupcakes just in time for back-to-school!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nQahjI8ApzA/UDbCsr77YrI/AAAAAAAABEQ/XoXLlQMIJEM/s1600/applecupcakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nQahjI8ApzA/UDbCsr77YrI/AAAAAAAABEQ/XoXLlQMIJEM/s400/applecupcakes.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
While you're there, don't forget to enter the awesome giveaway hosted by a TON of fabulous bloggers. Until next time, happy reading and, more importantly, happy cupcake-ing!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" /></a></div>
Heather @ A Cupcake Love Affairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06837791029345719311noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4406638560173967697.post-71281169078003507062012-08-21T06:00:00.000-04:002012-08-21T06:00:05.396-04:00Stuffed Mushroom "POP"persHey friends! Sorry I've been MIA this past week. I threw my sister a baby shower on Saturday and was super busy all week cooking, baking, and making decorations. I've gotta say...this definitely stretched my talents. I'm not really a DIYer outside of the kitchen. I am, however, extremely pleased with how everything turned out. <br />
<br />
So, this week, I'll be sharing with you bits and pieces from the shower, leading up to the big reveal.<br />
<br />
Today we have stuffed mushroom "POP"pers. The shower theme was "She's Ready to Pop" so all of the food had "POP" in it. (I had to get creative for a few items.) The colors were pink and green with lots of polka dots.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EcJqn4fbRZg/UDLhXI1NABI/AAAAAAAABAg/8540avpPwQE/s1600/BabyShowerMushrooms.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="374" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EcJqn4fbRZg/UDLhXI1NABI/AAAAAAAABAg/8540avpPwQE/s400/BabyShowerMushrooms.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.food.com/recipe/red-lobster-crab-stuffed-mushrooms-42624">Red Lobster's Crab Stuffed Mushrooms</a>:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 22px;">1 lb fresh mushrooms </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 22px;">1/4 cup celery, finely chopped</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 22px;">2 tablespoons onions, finely chopped </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 22px;">2 tablespoons red bell peppers, finely chopped </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 22px;">1/2 lb crabmeat 2 cups oyster crackers, crushed </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 22px;">1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 22px;">1/4 teaspoon garlic powder </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 22px;">1/2 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 22px;">1/4 teaspoon black pepper, ground </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 22px;">1/4 teaspoon salt </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 22px;">1 egg </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 22px;">1/2 cup water </span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 22px;">6 slices white cheddar cheese</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Preheat oven to 400 degrees.Wash mushrooms, remove stems, and set caps aside. Chop half of stems and reserve for next step.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Saute chopped mushroom stems,celery, onion and pepper in butter for 2 minutes. Transfer to a plate and cool in refrigerator.</span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Combine sauteed vegetables with all other ingredients except cheese slices and mix well. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Place caps in a sprayed baking dish, stem side up. Spoon 1 teaspoon stuffing into each cap and cover with cheese slices (I broke them up into appropriate sized pieces). Bake for 12-15 minutes until cheese is lightly brown.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
These were so yummy and tasted just like the ones you get at the restaurant! You definitely need to try them! Stay tuned for more fun "POP"able ideas and recipes!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Until next time, happy reading and, more importantly, happy cupcake-ing!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" /></a></div>
Heather @ A Cupcake Love Affairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06837791029345719311noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4406638560173967697.post-91379407993442599242012-08-13T06:00:00.000-04:002012-08-13T06:00:15.644-04:00Just Me....and GF Blueberry MuffinsHey friends. Today I have a post about me. Ok, there will be a recipe at the end but, first, me...This year has been a trying one for me health-wise. I was born with asthma and have struggled with lots of different allergies for as long as I can remember. I've always been able to manage these with an albuterol inhaler, allergy medicine, shots, and the occasional visit to the doctor/pharmacy for antibiotics. I would suffer from the typical change of weather symptoms and you can forget about rolling around in the grass or having a real Christmas tree.<br />
<br />
However, up until this year, it's been manageable. I never had to give up being a kid or playing sports. Working out wasn't an issue unless I was sick (who actually works out when they're sick anyway?) Outdoor picnics and visiting people with cats were do-able as long as I remembered to take a pill and bring my inhaler. Of course, over the years, I've had some issues. The occasional asthma attack or sinus inection. A few bouts with bronchitis and, once, pneumonia as a child. But these were spread out over thirty years and, for the most part, controllable with the proper methods.<br />
<br />
This all changed in January of this year. I had my first sinus infection at the beginning of the month. I went to the doctor, was prescribed steroids and antibiotics, and sent home. Over the next month I had two more sinus infections and went through two more rounds of antibiotics. Since then, I've had countless ear infections, and I can't even remember the number of times I've woken up congested or with a severe headache. I already watch my MSG intake because too much of that causes migraines. This was something else.<br />
<br />
I found an allergy specialist and started immunotherapy (allergy shots) to no avail. In fact, every time I got a shot, I just got sicker. Enough was enough. Something had to change. I spoke to one of my coworkers (the wife of my boss who shed the light on my MSG allergy - for more info read <a href="http://www.cupcakeloveaffair.blogspot.com/2012/06/no-sauce-chicken-veggie-pizza-plus-some.html">this</a> post) and she told me about a book called <i>Foods That Fight Pain </i>by Dr. Neal Barnard. This book is so great! It contains the Elimination Diet - essentially, a detox plan that empties your system of all toxins and foods that are common triggers for pain, allergy attacks, headaches, etc., and then slowly allows those trigger foods back into your diet, one at a time, to help you figure out which ones are causing problems for you. Trigger foods are different for every person. Reading this book and following this plan helped me figure out that my trigger foods are foods with gluten in them.<br />
<br />
Yep. You read that right. I'm a pastry chef with a gluten sensitivity. Let me tell you - this is not cool. Don't get me wrong. I'm truly thankful to have some answers and know that there is hope for a healthy life. It's just a little sad for me to think of all the cupcakes I'll have to give up. Now, I don't believe that I have Celiac's Disease. I can eat gluten in small amounts as long as I'm prepared to face the consequences. Sometimes I'll probably decide that that dark chocolate cupcake is worth the pain and suffering. :) But, for the most part, I will be living a gluten-free life. Thus, I'm looking at a LOT of change around here. Don't worry....you can still expect to find delicious, "normal" desserts here. There will just be the occasional GF recipe to share that says, "yes, having a gluten allergy is livable!" In fact, I'm sharing a yummy muffin recipe with you in this very post that is gluten free without missing any of that muffin-y goodness.<br />
<br />
I'm also extremely blessed with a family, friends, and coworkers who are so supportive and cheer me on every step of the way. In fact, my mom wants our family to adapt to a more GF lifestyle and our meals, as a family, are going to start reflecting that! Thank you, Lord, for these people!!<br />
<br />
So, without further ado....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NibTKvDpM4E/UChPbuiowGI/AAAAAAAAA-k/ysCUMjktwD0/s1600/GFBBMufins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NibTKvDpM4E/UChPbuiowGI/AAAAAAAAA-k/ysCUMjktwD0/s400/GFBBMufins.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>GF Blueberry Rice Muffins </b>(adapted from <a href="http://cookingontheside.com/blueberry-rice-muffins/">here</a>)<br />
<br />
Streusel Topping:<br />
<br />
2 tablespoons sugar<br />
1 1/2 teaspoons white rice flour<br />
1 teaspoon vegetable oil (or melted salted butter or margarine)<br />
<br />
For the Muffins:<br />
<br />
1 egg<br />
1/2 cup vanilla rice milk (you can use whatever milk you prefer)<br />
2 tablespoons sugar<br />
2 tablespoons vegetable oil<br />
1 cup white rice flour<br />
2 teaspoons baking powder<br />
1/2 teaspoon salt<br />
1 teaspoon grated lemon zest<br />
3/4 cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)<br />
1/2 teaspoon vanilla<br />
1 tablespoon lemon juice<br />
<br />
Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Lightly grease (or line with liners) a 6-cup muffin tin. For the streusel topping, in a small bowl, whisk together the sugar and flour. Add oil (or butter or margarine) and mix together until fluffy and incorporated. Texture will be sandy. Set aside.<br />
<br />
For the muffins, in another small bowl, combine rice flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and lemon zest. Carefully stir in blueberries. In a medium bowl, mix the egg, milk, oil, vanilla, and lemon juice until well blended. Add in the dry ingredients and mix just until combined.<br />
<br />
Pour batter into prepared pan and sprinkle with streusel topping. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until edges are starting to brown. Allow muffins to cool 5 minutes in pan before removing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NEOS9MZubVg/UChQA18Wc2I/AAAAAAAAA-s/6JM0Eq0ZmUg/s1600/GFBBMuffins2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NEOS9MZubVg/UChQA18Wc2I/AAAAAAAAA-s/6JM0Eq0ZmUg/s400/GFBBMuffins2.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I really love these muffins and am going to experiment with the recipe for different flavors! It was so encouraging for me, especially this early on, to find things that are ok for me to eat, while still tasting good and having the right texture. I think I'm gonna be ok! :)<br />
<br />
Don't forget to stop by and enter the giveaway <a href="http://www.cupcakeloveaffair.blogspot.com/2012/08/its-party-time-cupcake-love-affair.html">here</a> to win 12 awesome prizes!<br />
<br />
Until next time, happy reading, and more importantly, pay attention to what your body is trying to tell you!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" /></a></div>Heather @ A Cupcake Love Affairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06837791029345719311noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4406638560173967697.post-7287703901120433602012-08-09T22:51:00.000-04:002012-08-09T23:15:54.118-04:00It's Party Time @ A Cupcake Love Affair<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Woohoo! It's here! The fabulous giveaway to celebrate reaching over 200 followers here at A Cupcake Love Affair!! I can't thank you all enough for your support and encouragement. I have some awesome prizes that have been donated by some truly incredible bloggers. These ladies have all been instrumental in some way since I started this thing back in January. From html help and graphic design, advertisement and growth, to friendship and support, each one has contributed in her own way and I feel so blessed to know them all! You've been meeting them all week and now it's time to win! One person will win it all so, without further ado, here are the prizes... </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dVaRUf7AOic/UCRhA-v8FwI/AAAAAAAAA8E/sjYWx_j9VTY/s1600/ACLAMelaniePrize2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dVaRUf7AOic/UCRhA-v8FwI/AAAAAAAAA8E/sjYWx_j9VTY/s400/ACLAMelaniePrize2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i8QYUdHJ3E8/UCR71N8QIgI/AAAAAAAAA9U/dQjOM2KnzE8/s1600/aclabroach.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="106" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i8QYUdHJ3E8/UCR71N8QIgI/AAAAAAAAA9U/dQjOM2KnzE8/s320/aclabroach.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WPIZ2pD9mEQ/UCRg9vnuw8I/AAAAAAAAA7M/nNLn69mmUOw/s1600/ACLAAdriannePrize2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WPIZ2pD9mEQ/UCRg9vnuw8I/AAAAAAAAA7M/nNLn69mmUOw/s400/ACLAAdriannePrize2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EFkopdq4kHM/UCR8RbWdHGI/AAAAAAAAA9c/Be11gqrBXUM/s1600/aclacupcakenecklace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EFkopdq4kHM/UCR8RbWdHGI/AAAAAAAAA9c/Be11gqrBXUM/s1600/aclacupcakenecklace.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CRYGRiUajOU/UCRg-8L9-fI/AAAAAAAAA7s/2DczABMQnJI/s1600/ACLAKadiePrize2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CRYGRiUajOU/UCRg-8L9-fI/AAAAAAAAA7s/2DczABMQnJI/s400/ACLAKadiePrize2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img height="151" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3IqFiHjwV4Q/UBr0r_b9hOI/AAAAAAAAEUc/oFGE5taDDao/s200/Bear+Rabbit+Bear+Giveaway+00401.jpg" width="200" /> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_z5x0tmE9LU/UCRhBGUfEHI/AAAAAAAAA8M/XO7d7WM1BgI/s1600/ACLAMeredithPrize2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_z5x0tmE9LU/UCRhBGUfEHI/AAAAAAAAA8M/XO7d7WM1BgI/s400/ACLAMeredithPrize2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f0g9Im4dqC0/UCR8tbDFCtI/AAAAAAAAA9k/4A_tmk7PSeg/s1600/aclacoffeecozy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f0g9Im4dqC0/UCR8tbDFCtI/AAAAAAAAA9k/4A_tmk7PSeg/s1600/aclacoffeecozy.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MaUUUnE3KGg/UCRhAVnqU5I/AAAAAAAAA70/tX5IatL6zM0/s1600/ACLAKaraPrize2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MaUUUnE3KGg/UCRhAVnqU5I/AAAAAAAAA70/tX5IatL6zM0/s400/ACLAKaraPrize2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DTrF4VCVR30/UCR83m6E5fI/AAAAAAAAA9s/VVNMGpt9M7Y/s1600/aclaearrings.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DTrF4VCVR30/UCR83m6E5fI/AAAAAAAAA9s/VVNMGpt9M7Y/s1600/aclaearrings.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JZv7LYzmiIw/UCRg-EdjoTI/AAAAAAAAA7Y/Bq_6pkrF5kk/s1600/ACLACarlyPrize2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JZv7LYzmiIw/UCRg-EdjoTI/AAAAAAAAA7Y/Bq_6pkrF5kk/s400/ACLACarlyPrize2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-THsa6sYPeZs/UCRhAEordsI/AAAAAAAAA7w/0_pyuFUBfLw/s1600/ACLAKaraPTPPrize2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-THsa6sYPeZs/UCRhAEordsI/AAAAAAAAA7w/0_pyuFUBfLw/s400/ACLAKaraPTPPrize2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y8pFuGmePJI/UCRg9-Ov0xI/AAAAAAAAA7Q/qyiIAP7ELXM/s1600/ACLAAmyPrize2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Y8pFuGmePJI/UCRg9-Ov0xI/AAAAAAAAA7Q/qyiIAP7ELXM/s400/ACLAAmyPrize2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_EEqSbYAmEs/UCRg-StHQ5I/AAAAAAAAA7g/lvb-KvEJo1A/s1600/ACLAJennyPrize2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_EEqSbYAmEs/UCRg-StHQ5I/AAAAAAAAA7g/lvb-KvEJo1A/s400/ACLAJennyPrize2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DIx8sS8-zj0/UCRhCj3GzvI/AAAAAAAAA8c/zbo3s6OGBnQ/s1600/ACLASalenaPrize2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DIx8sS8-zj0/UCRhCj3GzvI/AAAAAAAAA8c/zbo3s6OGBnQ/s400/ACLASalenaPrize2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-stXeWq8fhrA/UCRhCf6qQ2I/AAAAAAAAA8U/qkFpXtcSYuo/s1600/ACLAPamelaPrize2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-stXeWq8fhrA/UCRhCf6qQ2I/AAAAAAAAA8U/qkFpXtcSYuo/s400/ACLAPamelaPrize2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
How awesome is that? I am also giving away one month featured ad space, including the top sponsor spot & a featured solo post with optional giveaway and media shout-outs, cupcake mix, and a $20 gift card to either Michaels or Starbucks (winner's choice)! Again, thank you to my readers and awesome prize donors! Without you all, there wouldn't be a reason to celebrate! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Rafflecopter will walk you through the entry process....Good Luck!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/8e24d73/" id="rc-8e24d73" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a></div>
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Be sure to stop by <a href="http://pamelasheavenlytreats.blogspot.com/">Pamela's Heavenly Treats</a> today where I'm guest posting! Until next time, happy reading and more importantly, happy cupcake-ing!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br /></div>Heather @ A Cupcake Love Affairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06837791029345719311noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4406638560173967697.post-47089743182521502512012-08-08T06:00:00.000-04:002012-08-08T06:00:02.877-04:00More Awesome Prizes From My Fabulous FriendsHey there! Today I'm introducing you to Jenny from <a href="http://jessiestreetdesigns.blogspot.com/">Jessie Street Designs</a> and Salena from <a href="http://salenalee.blogspot.com/">A Little Piece of Me</a>.....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Hello Everyone! I'm Jenny from Jessie Street Designs and I thrilled to be here with Heather to help to celebrate her 200 readers at A Cupcake Love Affair :)</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=7db68ecb3d&view=att&th=138e4d7075994ac3&attid=0.1&disp=thd&realattid=f_h5d4y9qw0&zw" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Square Logo125x125.jpg" border="0" height="200" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=7db68ecb3d&view=att&th=138e4d7075994ac3&attid=0.1&disp=thd&realattid=f_h5d4y9qw0&zw" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background-color: white;">
</div>
<div style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I am a stay-at-home mom to three children - a four year old boy and three year old twin daughters. To pass the time "while my pretty ones sleep" I love to sew and work on DIY projects. Eventually, I decided to take this love of sewing and DIY up a notch and my etsy shop - Jessie Street Designs - was born.<br />
<br />
The shop name, Jessie Street Designs, was inspired by my incredibly talented grandmothers - my maternal grandmother lived on Jessie Street and my paternal grandmother's first name was Jessie! In addition to many other things, they taught me that nothing beats a handmade item and many of the dresses and sweaters they made for our family have been cherished and handed down through generations:)<br />
<br />
I love to find fun patterns and fabrics for my projects and each item is handmade by me in my smoke-free studio.</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white;">
</div>
<div style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In addition to creating items for my shop, I also have a little blog called Jessie Street Designs where I share my decorating, cooking, organization and crafting adventures! If you like to read, I also co-host a monthly "Ready, Set....READ" book link party. I hope that you will stop by and say hi!!</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Jenny is offering one item from her shop to the winner of the giveaway. How cool is that? Head over here to take a look...</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://jessiestreetdesigns.blogspot.com/">Blog</a> // <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/JessieStreetDesigns">Etsy</a></span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img alt="july21profile350.jpg" height="200" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/1/?ui=2&ik=88ed2b7988&view=att&th=138fe6dfd745e783&attid=0.1&disp=thd&realattid=f_h5k7y5550&zw" width="155" /> <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 21px;">Hi, my name is Salena! I'm a wife, mother of 6, and a grandmother of 3. I am a stay-at-home mommy to my 3 little girls. </span><span style="line-height: 21px;">My blog centers around my daily life, marriage, parenting, things that interest me, what I'm passionate about and basically just where my heart thoughts lead me. </span><span style="line-height: 21px;">In my shop you can find handmade accessories.</span></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 21px;"><br />
</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 21px;">Salena is a fantastic woman and awesome friend! She is offering a medium ad space on her blog for one month! Check her out here:</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 21px;"><br />
</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 21px;"><a href="http://salenalee.blogspot.com/">Blog</a> // <a href="https://www.facebook.com/alittlepieceofmeblog">Facebook</a> // <a href="https://twitter.com/alittlepiece_me">Twitter</a> // <a href="http://alittlepieceofme.storenvy.com/">Shop</a></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks, ladies! Make sure you stop by on Friday and enter the giveaway for your chance at the awesome prizes! Here's the button for your side bar! Share with your friends!!<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
<a href="http://www.cupcakeloveaffair.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="A Cupcake Love Affair" src="http://i1255.photobucket.com/albums/hh621/hlay1181/giveawaybutton.jpg" /></a> </div>
<div align="center">
<form>
<textarea cols="20" rows="6"><center>
<a href="http://www.cupcakeloveaffair.blogspot.com" target="_blank"><img alt="A Cupcake Love Affair" src="http://i1255.photobucket.com/albums/hh621/hlay1181/giveawaybutton.jpg"/></a></center>
</textarea></form>
</div>
<br />
<br />
Until next time, happy reading and more importantly, happy cupcake-ing!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="background-color: white;">
</div>Heather @ A Cupcake Love Affairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06837791029345719311noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4406638560173967697.post-7038140144789585502012-08-07T06:00:00.000-04:002012-08-07T06:00:08.117-04:00Just "Beach-y" CupcakesHey friends! Today I'm sharing with you the perfect cupcakes for a beach party. I got an email a couple weeks ago from a repeat client and she asked me to make cupcakes for her son's beach/pool themed party. She sent me some ideas and I jumped online to do some research and I'm sure you're gonna love the results...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AH16Zvm8OfE/UCBISnxS9YI/AAAAAAAAA4I/SVF4ggEmoxA/s1600/BeachCC3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AH16Zvm8OfE/UCBISnxS9YI/AAAAAAAAA4I/SVF4ggEmoxA/s400/BeachCC3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Cute, right? There are three different designs: sea turtles, sharks, and beach towels and floats on the sand. I just love the way they turned out! Now, for the flavors. She requested two of the same flavors as her last order - <a href="http://www.cupcakeloveaffair.blogspot.com/2012/05/alices-cupcake-wonderland.html">Marble</a> with <a href="http://www.cupcakeloveaffair.blogspot.com/2012/05/alices-cupcake-wonderland.html">Chocolate Buttercream</a> and <a href="http://www.cupcakeloveaffair.blogspot.com/2012/03/luck-o-irish-month-o-cupcakes-1-green.html">Red Velvet</a> with <a href="http://www.cupcakeloveaffair.blogspot.com/2012/05/alices-cupcake-wonderland.html">Cream Cheese Icing</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t0Vl9lral2U/UCBISDvn9tI/AAAAAAAAA4A/XSr1UCjkqXE/s1600/BeachCC2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t0Vl9lral2U/UCBISDvn9tI/AAAAAAAAA4A/XSr1UCjkqXE/s400/BeachCC2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For the turtles:</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.candywarehouse.com/assets/item/regular/image-130052.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="190" src="http://www.candywarehouse.com/assets/item/regular/image-130052.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jelly Rings<br />
<a href="http://www.candywarehouse.com/occasions/old-fashioned-and-nostalgic-candy/products/jelly-rings-candy-5lb-bag/">Source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="135" src="http://virtualsugarrush.com/images/gumdrops-recipe-2-16-07.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="200" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gumdrops<br />
<a href="http://virtualsugarrush.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=413">Source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.oldtimecandy.com/assets/images/singles/spearmint_leaves_bulk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://www.oldtimecandy.com/assets/images/singles/spearmint_leaves_bulk.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Spearmint Leaves<br />
<a href="http://www.oldtimecandy.com/spearmint-leaves.htm">Source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
You'll find the tutorial on how to use these three candies plus mini chocolate chips to create those adorable turtles <a href="http://family.go.com/food/recipe-852443-squirt-happy-turtlecakes-t/">here</a>. (Sorry, no tutorial from me this time - I need to invest in a better camera - someday...)<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rXG7BjdYeOY/UCBITKobfdI/AAAAAAAAA4Q/Nt6Zat2RriM/s1600/BeachCC4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rXG7BjdYeOY/UCBITKobfdI/AAAAAAAAA4Q/Nt6Zat2RriM/s400/BeachCC4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I used <a href="http://www.wrigley.com/global/brands/life-savers.aspx/#panel-2">LifeSavers Gummies Collisions</a> for the floats and <a href="http://www.luuux.com/food/sweet-tooth-rips">Sour Gummy Rips</a> for the towels. I frosted the cupcakes with chocolate buttercream and then dipped them in graham cracker crumbs for the sand. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dVeihbGb01w/UCBIT8qdZDI/AAAAAAAAA4Y/T95mScW07n4/s1600/BeachCC5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="385" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dVeihbGb01w/UCBIT8qdZDI/AAAAAAAAA4Y/T95mScW07n4/s400/BeachCC5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
For the shark fins I used a gray heavyweight card stock and made my own toppers. Fold the paper in half. Once you have the desired shape drawn for the fin, trace it onto the card stock on the fold, cut out, poke a toothpick up through folded end of fin, and glue toothpick and edges of paper together to make a double-sided topper. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I hope the kids enjoyed these cupcakes as much as I did making them! Now go ahead and try them for yourself. Summer is coming to an end and what better way to remind yourself of all that summertime fun on the water?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Don't forget to come back on Friday to enter the awesome 200 follower giveaway I have planned! Feel free to grab the button below and place it on your side bar to spread the word about all the fun prizes...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://www.cupcakeloveaffair.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="A Cupcake Love Affair" src="http://i1255.photobucket.com/albums/hh621/hlay1181/giveawaybutton.jpg" /></a> </div>
<div align="center">
<form>
<textarea cols="20" rows="6"><center>
<a href="http://www.cupcakeloveaffair.blogspot.com" target="_blank"><img alt="A Cupcake Love Affair" src="http://i1255.photobucket.com/albums/hh621/hlay1181/giveawaybutton.jpg"/></a></center>
</textarea><br />
<br /></form>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Until next time, happy reading and more importantly, happy cupcake-ing!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" /></a></div>Heather @ A Cupcake Love Affairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06837791029345719311noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4406638560173967697.post-37868697784472456502012-08-06T10:00:00.001-04:002012-08-06T10:02:27.735-04:00Meet a Few More of My Friends...<div style="text-align: center;">
Today I'm introducing three more awesome bloggers who have donated prizes for Friday's giveaway! Meet Kadie from <a href="http://seven-alive.com/">Seven Alive</a>, Kara from <a href="http://happygoluckyblog.com/">Happy Go Lucky</a>, and Pamela from <a href="http://pamelasheavenlytreats.blogspot.com/">Pamela's Heavenly Treats</a>!<br />
<br />
Hello A Cupcake Love Affair readers! My name is Kadie and I have the blog <a href="http://seven-alive.com/">Seven Alive all Livin' in a Double Wide</a>.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CzlcNCRODQA/UBryZ8FXzEI/AAAAAAAAEUM/MnYhrzikQjk/s1600/Store+Header01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CzlcNCRODQA/UBryZ8FXzEI/AAAAAAAAEUM/MnYhrzikQjk/s640/Store+Header01.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm a crafty mom of 5 fantastic kiddos. I mostly blog about sewing, cooking, crafting, and my favorite, crocheting. There is a bit about family too just for fun.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H6qAOVdemUs/UBry-QzG5dI/AAAAAAAAEUU/oesyT0zH3UA/s1600/me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H6qAOVdemUs/UBry-QzG5dI/AAAAAAAAEUU/oesyT0zH3UA/s200/me.jpg" width="197" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm really excited to help Heather celibrate reaching her goal. Heather is so sweet, I'm so glad we have been able to get to know each other.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am offering one large open cabochon necklace in the winners choice of color.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3IqFiHjwV4Q/UBr0r_b9hOI/AAAAAAAAEUc/oFGE5taDDao/s1600/Bear+Rabbit+Bear+Giveaway+00401.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3IqFiHjwV4Q/UBr0r_b9hOI/AAAAAAAAEUc/oFGE5taDDao/s400/Bear+Rabbit+Bear+Giveaway+00401.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
The pendant measures 1 inch across and will be on a 12 inch silver ball and chain necklace.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.seven-alive.com/">Blog</a> // <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SevenAliveallLivininaDoubleWide">Facebook</a> // <a href="http://pinterest.com/kadie7/">Pinterest</a> </div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;">I'm Kara and I blog over at Happy Go Lucky.</span> </div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br />
</span><br />
<center>
<a href="http://happy-go-lucky-harvey.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Happy Go Lucky" border="0" src="http://i100.photobucket.com/albums/m13/harveyusn/733design/button.png" /></a></center>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="background-color: white;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I'm the mother to a very spunky 4 year old, a Navy wife and a 6th grade reading teacher. I love being creative and started my blog to help pass the time while my husband was deployed. I love sharing fun and easy DIY projects but I'm also loving all the fabulous bloggers I've met along the way.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=7db68ecb3d&view=att&th=138ece8380b712dc&attid=0.1.1&disp=emb&zw&atsh=1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=7db68ecb3d&view=att&th=138ece8380b712dc&attid=0.1.1&disp=emb&zw&atsh=1" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="background-color: white;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Now for the fun part! To help Heather celebrate this fabulous event, I will be giving away a pair of filigree earrings. The winner will be able to choose between round or diamond and can pick any color they want.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=7db68ecb3d&view=att&th=138ece8380b712dc&attid=0.1.2&disp=emb&zw&atsh=1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=7db68ecb3d&view=att&th=138ece8380b712dc&attid=0.1.2&disp=emb&zw&atsh=1" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="background-color: white;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Congrats again Heather and thanks for being such a wonderful bloggy friend!!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.happygoluckyblog.com/">Blog</a> // <a href="https://www.facebook.com/happygoluckyblog">Facebook</a> // <a href="https://twitter.com/happygolucky337">Twitter</a> // <a href="http://pinterest.com/happygolucky337/">Pinterest</a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<center>
</center>
<center>
</center>
<center>
<br />
<div style="text-align: start;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 150%;">Hi! My name is Pamela from Pamela's Heavenly Treats. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<img alt="100_0788.JPG" height="240" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=7db68ecb3d&view=att&th=138e4730dc04a5f1&attid=0.2&disp=thd&zw" width="320" />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I am a wife, mother of 6, homeschool teacher and I have a small Healthy Cupcake & Cookie business. Everything that I make is made with 100% Whole Wheat Flour and my secret ingredients. I also have a Etsy shop where I sell my healthy mixes..</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=7db68ecb3d&view=att&th=138e4730dc04a5f1&attid=0.1&disp=thd&zw" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Pamela's_Heavenly_Treats_Square.png" border="0" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=7db68ecb3d&view=att&th=138e4730dc04a5f1&attid=0.1&disp=thd&zw" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Pamela is giving away ad space on her side bar for one month and a $5 credit to her awesome shop! Check her out here:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.pamelasheavenlytreats.blogspot.com/">Blog</a> // <a href="http://pinterest.com/phtreats/">Pinterest</a> // <a href="https://twitter.com/phtreats">Twitter</a> // <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/PamelaHeavenlyTreats">Etsy</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thanks so much, ladies, for being a part! To my readers - I promise there will be a cupcake post tomorrow! Also, I'll be sharing some personal news sometime this week, guest posting at <a href="http://www.pamelasheavenlytreats.blogspot.com./">Pamela's Heavenly Treats</a>, and of course, the big giveaway is this Friday!! Until next time, happy reading and more importantly, happy cupcake-ing!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
</div>
</center>
</div>Heather @ A Cupcake Love Affairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06837791029345719311noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4406638560173967697.post-61963977987573535772012-08-03T09:57:00.001-04:002012-08-03T09:57:32.483-04:00A Few More Lovely Ladies...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Hello there! Here are a few more lovely ladies, donating items for the giveaway next week! Meet Adrianne from <a href="http://www.happyhourprojects.com/">Happy Hour Projects</a>, Meredith from <a href="http://www.waittilyourfathergetshome.com/">Wait Til Your Father Gets Home</a>, and Kara from <a href="http://www.petalstopicots.com/">Petals to Picots</a>....<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0bv_-3KOoB4/UBl5H5ylEnI/AAAAAAAADRg/x9hwF3ZB5Jc/s1600/HappyHourCircleButton200.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="120" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0bv_-3KOoB4/UBl5H5ylEnI/AAAAAAAADRg/x9hwF3ZB5Jc/s200/HappyHourCircleButton200.png" width="120" /></a>Hi! I'm Adrianne, and I blog over at <a href="http://www.happyhourprojects.com/" target="_blank">Happy Hour Projects</a>, where I focus on quick and easy projects you can do in an hour or less! You'll find a pretty wide variety of projects - jewelry, sewing, baking - but what they have in common is that I present photo tutorials for creative things you can actually fit into a busy day. Because like a lot of you - my days are packed!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bb_XwUgMRqQ/UBl4wbfxp9I/AAAAAAAADRY/0E5vkdPh7tk/s1600/396089_10150973953912607_338882255_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bb_XwUgMRqQ/UBl4wbfxp9I/AAAAAAAADRY/0E5vkdPh7tk/s200/396089_10150973953912607_338882255_n.jpg" width="199" /></a></div>
I'm a mom and a wife and a creative blogger, and <span style="background-color: white;">I have an Etsy shop where I sell jewelry made from books and maps. </span><span style="background-color: white;"> T</span><span style="background-color: white;">hat's what I enjoy during my me-time! I love crafting (especially for my daughter) and writing, so the blog has been the perfect outlet for both passions. I've been at it nearly a year now, and I have enjoyed the connections I've made with other bloggers and creative people so much. There are just some things you can talk to your creative friends about that no one else can understand! I also work full-time, so I don't have as much time to enjoy my family and my hobbies as much as I would like (but hey, it's keeps a roof over our heads and my craft shelves stocked, which is a good thing!)</span><br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: white;">I'd love to see you over at Happy Hour Projects anytime! I post tutorials and recipes Mondays - Thursdays, host a weekly link part on Fridays, and have the occasional giveaway or other fun post on the weekends. Hope to see you soon!</span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Find me:</div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.happyhourprojects.com/" target="_blank">Happy Hour Projects</a> // <a href="https://www.facebook.com/happyhourprojects" target="_blank">Facebook</a> // <a href="http://pinterest.com/adrianne55/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> // <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/HappyHrProjects" target="_blank">Twitter</a> // <a href="http://inkspiredcollection.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Etsy</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TYD7VmHkKBY/T-7oayvIynI/AAAAAAAACWw/Oge8AOfFHNA/s1600/Adrianne.png" /><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm Meredith from {<a href="http://www.waittilyourfathergetshome.com/" target="_blank" title="Wait Til Your Father Gets Home">Wait Til Your Father Gets Home</a>}, a crafty and DIY blog that I recently started since becoming a stay at home mom to this little cutie...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://waittilyourfathergetshome.greenmellensites.com/files/2012/06/mommy-jackson.jpg"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1303" height="391" src="http://waittilyourfathergetshome.greenmellensites.com/files/2012/06/mommy-jackson.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
First and foremost, I'm a wife and a mama. I also have a weakness for...chocolate (and find it really weird when people say they hate chocolate...who hates chocolate?!), flip flops, McDonald's caramel frappes, fall weather (this heat is making me wish away summer...I know I shouldn't, but it's HOT), and last, but not least, The Target Dollar Spot (Target + $1 = one happy mama).</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm so excited for Heather to have reached 200 followers! Way to go girlfriend! To help her celebrate, I'll be giving away one handmade coffee cozy. The winner will have their choice between the two fabrics shown in the picture below.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://waittilyourfathergetshome.greenmellensites.com/files/2012/08/cozy.jpg"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2020" height="263" src="http://waittilyourfathergetshome.greenmellensites.com/files/2012/08/cozy.jpg" title="cozy" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
For more <a href="http://waittilyourfathergetshome.greenmellensites.com/2012/03/02/beer-bottle-decor/" title="{beer bottle decor}">crafty ideas</a>, <a href="http://waittilyourfathergetshome.greenmellensites.com/2012/04/30/the-mad-planter/" title="{the mad planter}">DIY projects</a>, and <a href="http://waittilyourfathergetshome.greenmellensites.com/2012/05/14/avocado-parmesan-chicken/" title="{avocado parmesan chicken}">yummy recipes</a> connect with me here:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.waittilyourfathergetshome.com/">Blog</a> // <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/WaitTilYourFatherGetsHome/332060390149924" target="_blank">Facebook</a> // <a href="https://twitter.com/#!/WaitTYFGHome" target="_blank" title="Wait Til Your Father Gets Home on Twitter">Twitter</a> // <a href="https://pinterest.com/mhazel/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I look forward to hearing from some of you soon!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Enjoy & Congratulations Heather!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</div>
<a href="http://waittilyourfathergetshome.greenmellensites.com/files/2012/07/sig.jpg"><img alt="" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1611" height="81" src="http://waittilyourfathergetshome.greenmellensites.com/files/2012/07/sig.jpg" title="sig" width="200" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cwvRNOHq8Co/UBqLCzyDHII/AAAAAAAAA2Y/Xxbzp-YmqUE/s1600/002-test-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cwvRNOHq8Co/UBqLCzyDHII/AAAAAAAAA2Y/Xxbzp-YmqUE/s1600/002-test-3.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Hey. My name is Kara and I blog over at <a href="http://www.petalstopicots.com/">Petals to Picots</a>. I am a wife and stay at home mommy to three great kids. In my free time (ha-ha) I work as a freelance writer and editor to support my yarn addiction. My grandmother taught me how to crochet when I was 9 years old, and I have been crocheting ever since. From trying new patterns to designing my own, I always have a crochet project stashed in my bag.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vkDXGINvbvA/UBvUiQdoZXI/AAAAAAAAA3M/vGJX4mlrB70/s1600/giveaway+-+any+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vkDXGINvbvA/UBvUiQdoZXI/AAAAAAAAA3M/vGJX4mlrB70/s200/giveaway+-+any+2.jpg" width="158" /></a><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dX2OpXj_wts/Tqs3XxfmOMI/AAAAAAAAAAc/EdJGai7mylQ/s1600/VanCa0031-crop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dX2OpXj_wts/Tqs3XxfmOMI/AAAAAAAAAAc/EdJGai7mylQ/s200/VanCa0031-crop.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Kara will be giving away any two of her patterns in PDF form. Check out all her beautiful creations at:</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.petalstopicots.com/">Blog</a> // <a href="https://www.facebook.com/petalstopicots">Facebook</a> // <a href="https://twitter.com/petalstopicots">Twitter</a> // <a href="http://pinterest.com/petalstopicots/">Pinterest</a> // <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/petalstopicots">Etsy</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
I just love these ladies and am so blessed to know them! Can't wait until next week!! If you'd like to help spread the word about this awesome giveaway, feel free to grab this button and post it on your sidebar!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
<a href="http://www.cupcakeloveaffair.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="A Cupcake Love Affair" src="http://i1255.photobucket.com/albums/hh621/hlay1181/giveawaybutton.jpg" /></a> </div>
<div align="center">
<form>
<textarea cols="20" rows="6"><center><a href="http://www.cupcakeloveaffair.blogspot.com" target="_blank"><img alt="A Cupcake Love Affair" src="http://i1255.photobucket.com/albums/hh621/hlay1181/giveawaybutton.jpg"/></a></center></textarea></form>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
</div>Heather @ A Cupcake Love Affairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06837791029345719311noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4406638560173967697.post-82488417909632591732012-08-01T14:38:00.000-04:002012-08-01T14:38:05.305-04:00Introducing...<span style="font-family: inherit;">Hey friends! If you missed the announcement, A Cupcake Love Affair has reached over 200 followers and we're celebrating around here! I never imagined that so many people would want to read what I have to say and am just so excited about what's goin on in my little part of the bloggy world! So, as part of the celebration, I'm hosting a giveaway, featuring some of the coolest women in blog land. Grab the button below and spread the word about the giveaway if you'd like!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div align="center">
<a href="http://www.cupcakeloveaffair.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="A Cupcake Love Affair" src="http://i1255.photobucket.com/albums/hh621/hlay1181/giveawaybutton.jpg" /></a> </div>
<div align="center">
<form>
<textarea cols="20" rows="6"><center><a href="http://www.cupcakeloveaffair.blogspot.com" target="_blank"><img alt="A Cupcake Love Affair" src="http://i1255.photobucket.com/albums/hh621/hlay1181/giveawaybutton.jpg"/></a></center></textarea></form>
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Because of the overwhelming response from some of my bloggy BFFs, I've decided to introduce them to you, a couple at a time, over the next week. These awesome ladies are donating some really cool prizes and I can't wait for you to meet them. Here are today's featured ladies. Meet Amy from </span><a href="http://oneartmama.blogspot.com/" style="font-family: inherit;">One Artsy Mama</a><span style="font-family: inherit;"> and Melanie from </span><a href="http://bearrabbitbear.com/" style="font-family: inherit;">Bear Rabbit Bear Crafts</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">....</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Hi, readers! I'm Amy, aka <a href="http://oneartmama.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">One Artsy Mama</a>, and I'm thrilled to be here today helping celebrate 200 followers at A Cupcake Love Affair<strong>!!</strong> </span><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Fhg625uqXrU/T-WpOXB63LI/AAAAAAAAIFQ/LF1GKThjkaA/s1600/small12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Fhg625uqXrU/T-WpOXB63LI/AAAAAAAAIFQ/LF1GKThjkaA/s400/small12.jpg" width="280" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JemxrmJxdHo/T-Wo0ToJUQI/AAAAAAAAIFA/ZxzJfVeqXqw/s1600/mamanoahcrop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JemxrmJxdHo/T-Wo0ToJUQI/AAAAAAAAIFA/ZxzJfVeqXqw/s320/mamanoahcrop.jpg" width="278" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-align: left;">A little about me: I'm married to my best friend, mama to our almost-4-year old Little Crafter, and I'm</span><strong style="text-align: left;"> happiest when I'm creating something</strong><span style="text-align: left;">. When I'm not busy making jewelry, painting, or up to my elbows in some other craft project, I'm a professional ballroom, latin, and swing dancer. Honest.</span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I'm passionate about dance, my family, and Jesus. And, I'm addicted to Starbucks. Over at </span><a href="http://oneartmama.blogspot.com/" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank">One Artsy Mama</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">, you can find me blogging about kids' crafts, "big girl" crafts, home decor, family activities, holiday fun, and more! Every Friday, I co-host a big 'ol party where you can come show off your latest and greatest; I'd love for you to join us! I also have a <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/oneartmama" target="_blank">shop</a> where I sell some of the jewelry I make, along with digital designs like custom blog buttons and headers.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I'll be offering one of those custom blog buttons for Heather's giveaway. I will work with the winner to create a one of a kind button for your blog, a link party, a special event or series, or whatever you like. Good luck!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Amy was one of my first blog buddies and I really hope you all stop by and get to know her! You will love what you find!</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://oneartmama.blogspot.com/">Blog</a> // <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/One-Artsy-Mama/197166243647708">Facebook</a> // <a href="https://twitter.com/oneartmama">Twitter</a> // <a href="http://pinterest.com/dancers4life/">Pinterest</a></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_WjKFUyQMfw/UBkxSM5vbLI/AAAAAAAAAz0/ipnqDp6AczY/s1600/300x200new.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_WjKFUyQMfw/UBkxSM5vbLI/AAAAAAAAAz0/ipnqDp6AczY/s1600/300x200new.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Bear Rabbit Bear Crafts is a fun DIY place where we make projects that anyone can attempt. I enjoy seeing what I can craft out of recycled materials, and I don't mind sharing my failed projects as well as my successes (sometimes the fail is as educational as the success!). I have a ton going on in the month of August. Kitchen Week is August 12-18, and this will be a week of kitchen related tutorials and a fun (and stylish) giveaway. Play Kitchen Week for the kiddos will follow, where I will share a few of my play kitchen crafts and tutorials. Hope you'll stop by and check out all the happenings!</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
Melanie will be giving away a beautiful hand-made brooch. Just look at this....</div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2v8NtVxGzS4/UBkxUQ8vBQI/AAAAAAAAAz8/dFMxJGkZVcA/s1600/broochcollage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2v8NtVxGzS4/UBkxUQ8vBQI/AAAAAAAAAz8/dFMxJGkZVcA/s640/broochcollage.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="background-color: white; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Melanie has been a huge supporter of mine and I'm so thrilled that she is going to be a part of this milestone at A Cupcake Love Affair! You'll find her in all sorts of places, so stop by and check it out!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.bearrabbitbear.com/">Blog </a> // <a href="http://www.facebook.com/bearrabbitbear">Facebook</a> // <a href="https://twitter.com/Bearrabbitbear">Twitter</a> // <a href="http://pinterest.com/bearrabbitbear/">Pinterest</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Thanks, ladies! I can't wait til giveaway time! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Readers, until then, go check out these awesome bloggers! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>Heather @ A Cupcake Love Affairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06837791029345719311noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4406638560173967697.post-81976233871631980382012-07-31T10:05:00.001-04:002012-07-31T10:05:36.081-04:00Ice Cream Sundae CupcakesFirst, please excuse the short post. Life is crazy busy right now but I didn't want you to think I'd forgotten about you!!<br />
<br />
These cupcakes were so fun and cute! My brother-in-law's birthday is this week and he loves ice cream cake. Well, this is a cupcake blog and I thought it would be cool to figure out a way to make awesome cupcakes that would make him happy....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yOxDlkeVQEc/UBfiO_VieKI/AAAAAAAAAx8/6dBGscuvj1M/s1600/SundaeCupcakes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yOxDlkeVQEc/UBfiO_VieKI/AAAAAAAAAx8/6dBGscuvj1M/s400/SundaeCupcakes.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
These were made with my go-to <a href="http://www.cupcakeloveaffair.blogspot.com/2012/06/never-tried-nutella-what.html">dark chocolate</a> cupcakes, filled with vanilla icing, and topped with Black Cherry frozen yogurt, Cookies 'n Cream ice cream, and a cherry.Yum!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4xJyLTmx9JI/UBfiP9pZpqI/AAAAAAAAAyE/5Va79NLASuA/s1600/SundaeCupcakes2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4xJyLTmx9JI/UBfiP9pZpqI/AAAAAAAAAyE/5Va79NLASuA/s400/SundaeCupcakes2.jpg" width="378" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Happy birthday, Chris! I hope it's the best one yet!!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-696HNMC192M/UBfiR2dQ5DI/AAAAAAAAAyM/ZVT-2_RYpsM/s1600/SundaeCupcakes3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-696HNMC192M/UBfiR2dQ5DI/AAAAAAAAAyM/ZVT-2_RYpsM/s400/SundaeCupcakes3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In other news, I went with Chris and my sister, Candice, for their 4D ultrasound this week. This was, by far, the coolest thing I've ever seen! She is 27 weeks along and the details that we were able to see were just incredible. The next two weeks are gonna be pretty busy for me with all the planning I'm involved in for her baby shower so if I'm MIA - sorry! I will say that, thanks to all of you, I have hit the 200 follower mark between GFC and Bloglovin!! This means that an awesome giveaway will be going on all next week with some awesome prizes from several of my bloggy friends! Also, the week of the 19th will be Baby Shower week with the recipes from most of the food we'll be serving, all leading up to the big party reveal! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Meanwhile, here's a picture that I just have to share with all of you! Meet....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7zU15_0Qc3M/UBflolXQnOI/AAAAAAAAAzA/yp5-QbdxgyA/s1600/BABY+GIRL_0025.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="316" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7zU15_0Qc3M/UBflolXQnOI/AAAAAAAAAzA/yp5-QbdxgyA/s400/BABY+GIRL_0025.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Until next time, happy reading and more importantly, happy cupcake-ing!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />Heather @ A Cupcake Love Affairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06837791029345719311noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4406638560173967697.post-9861849351647275132012-07-26T20:25:00.000-04:002012-07-26T22:44:09.757-04:00Mixed Berry Lemonade {Sunflower} Cupcakes<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I know - the title makes you wonder - but I’m so excited to tell you about these cupcakes! They turned out so perfectly (if I do say so myself) and were such a hit! I can’t tell you how fulfilling it is to ghave an idea that comes together, start to finish, and makes other people happy!!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> I made these for a dear friend of our family whose birthday we were celebrating. This lady and her husband are such a huge part of our lives and we are so thankful to know them! Linda is an awesome woman and a huge encouragement and blessing in our lives. Her husband Jim is like a second dad to us and a really great friend to my dad! She is currently going through her third, yes THIRD, bought with cancer and her attitude is just amazing! She knows that God is in control and, while she certainly has her moments, she takes everything in stride and faces it head on – with God leading the way!! I know she has to be scared, but her faith is what gets her through. I’m just so humbled by her. So, when Jim said he wanted to do something for her birthday, I was in! And I knew exactly what I wanted to try. Her favorite flowers are Sunflowers so here’s where my mind went…</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XCGzsX-Wxi8/UBFr_42Mq-I/AAAAAAAAAxI/GbtdQx13Ask/s1600/SunflowerCC2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="383" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XCGzsX-Wxi8/UBFr_42Mq-I/AAAAAAAAAxI/GbtdQx13Ask/s400/SunflowerCC2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Ah! They're just so pretty...I love them! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rfi9k63Ab5k/UBFsJllh-nI/AAAAAAAAAxo/efIRIUz5A5E/s1600/SunflowerCC6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rfi9k63Ab5k/UBFsJllh-nI/AAAAAAAAAxo/efIRIUz5A5E/s400/SunflowerCC6.jpg" width="327" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anybody recognize those liners? I got them from Pick Your Plum and love them!! Check out the link on my side bar under "affiliates" for more of their awesome goodies!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Here's how I made these beauties...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Mixed Berry Lemonade Cake</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 box white cake mix</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
4 egg whites</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 cup water</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1/4 cup vegetable oil</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1/4 cup sour cream</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 cup frozen (can use fresh) blueberries</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1/2 cup frozen (can use fresh) strawberries</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
2 tablespoons blackberry jam</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Juice and peel of 1 lemon</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Preheat oven to 350 degrees and prepare cupcake pans. Mix all ingredients in mixer until just combined. Fill cupcake liners about 2/3 full with batter and bake until springy to touch or tester inserted in middle comes out clean. Let cool.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Lemon Cream Cheese Buttercream</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br />
</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 stick unsalted butter, softened</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1/2 cup shortening</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, cold</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1 teaspoon vanilla</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
juice and peel of 1/2 lemon (or more depending on desired taste)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
yellow gel food coloring</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
approx. 4 cups confectioner's sugar</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Cream butter, shortening, and cream cheese until light and fluffy. Add vanilla, lemon juice and peel and mix until combined. Add sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. If you need more than 4 cups for consistency, add extra a little at a time until you get it where you want it. Add enough food coloring to reach desired color and keep icing cool until ready to use.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
You'll be happy to know that I actually took pictures of the flower making process! Now you can see what I'm talking about as I explain the procedure....yay me! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Step 1</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b-wFH3J92YI/UBFsF1PW3FI/AAAAAAAAAxY/yNVyo6bB9Yg/s1600/SunflowerCC4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b-wFH3J92YI/UBFsF1PW3FI/AAAAAAAAAxY/yNVyo6bB9Yg/s400/SunflowerCC4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Lightly frost cupcake with a small amount of icing and drop about a teaspoonful of blackberry jam in the center. It's ok if the jam runs because you're going to cover this up with the petals. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Step 2</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LUeeJ9ejE4s/UBFsIZXnYyI/AAAAAAAAAxg/38fnuLbcMyI/s1600/SunflowerCC5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LUeeJ9ejE4s/UBFsIZXnYyI/AAAAAAAAAxg/38fnuLbcMyI/s400/SunflowerCC5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Around the outside edge of the cupcake, use a star tip to pipe a row of petals all the way around. To make each petal, press on your piping bag so that the icing starts to come out of the tip, stop pressing, and pull away from cupcake. If you're not comfortable with piping, you may want to practice a few times on parchment or wax paper. Once you get it down and feel comfortable, you can scrape the icing up and mix it back into the bowl to use on the cupcakes (waste not, want not). ;)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Step 3</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br />
</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wo5Pi5wp1Vc/UBFsCxLaXxI/AAAAAAAAAxQ/FhjSKTSPcrY/s1600/SunflowerCC3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wo5Pi5wp1Vc/UBFsCxLaXxI/AAAAAAAAAxQ/FhjSKTSPcrY/s400/SunflowerCC3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Last, but certainly not least, move in on the cupcake and pipe a second row of petals, making sure to completely cover the edge of the jam so that you have a round center. Try to place this second row in between the petals of the first row. Voila! A beautiful sunflower cupcake!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1JrMPWL6iu4/UBFr-TSKB5I/AAAAAAAAAxA/f7zHNsnBnCo/s1600/SunflowerCC1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1JrMPWL6iu4/UBFr-TSKB5I/AAAAAAAAAxA/f7zHNsnBnCo/s400/SunflowerCC1.jpg" width="302" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Even if you don't make the sunflowers (although I don't know why you wouldn't...they're so perfect for summer) please try this recipe! It's so delicious and refreshing this time of year. My dad said that these are his favorite so far and, even though I started with a box mix, I still feel accomplished because I doctored it up so much. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Also, two things you may have noticed. First, A Cupcake Love Affair is now accepting sponsorships through Passionfruit Ads. If you're looking for a place to advertise your blog or shop, stop by my <a href="http://cupcakeloveaffair.blogspot.com/p/sponsor-cupcake-love-affair.html" target="_blank">Sponsor</a> page and check out all the options! Second, you may have noticed that my followers count is steadily heading toward the big 200 (well, for me, that's big)! Between GFC and Bloglovin', almost 200 readers are following along with us and I have to tell you that that's really exciting for me! I never thought that many people would be interested and, yet, you all just keep on showing up and coming back for more. Thank you! I've decided to do another giveaway when I reach 200 so spread the word. What will I be giving away? Let me just say this...I won't be the only one giving something away and the number of "bloggy" friends who have volunteered to participate...well, you don't want to miss this!! If you're a fellow blogger and would like to participate in the giveaway, shoot me an email on my contact page.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;">I hope you're all having a fantastic summer! </span>Until next time, happy reading and more importantly, happy cupcake-ing!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br />
</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div>Heather @ A Cupcake Love Affairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06837791029345719311noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4406638560173967697.post-4713147616894909542012-07-24T10:41:00.000-04:002012-07-24T10:41:00.720-04:00Feels Like Christmas...in July!Hello, friends! You may have noticed a button I've had on my side bar the last few weeks about Christmas in July over at <a href="http://www.happyhourprojects.com/" target="_blank">Happy Hour Projects</a>. The lovely Adrianne has been hosting a fun event all month over at her blog and organized a gift exchange. What's more fun than giving and receiving Christmas gifts 5 months early? I was paired up with the fantastic Laurel over at <a href="http://www.girlmeetsworld2011.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Girl Meets World</a> and let me just say...I love her! We are such kindred spirits and I always enjoy making new friends!! Here's what she sent me....<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s4c15CfwDd8/UA6xzgm7isI/AAAAAAAAAv8/xKInrOm8dx4/s1600/Package1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s4c15CfwDd8/UA6xzgm7isI/AAAAAAAAAv8/xKInrOm8dx4/s640/Package1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So excited!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The big picture...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--FxKqr9Lyps/UA6x9u-Ae0I/AAAAAAAAAwk/_ywDYm6nUKM/s1600/Package6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="488" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--FxKqr9Lyps/UA6x9u-Ae0I/AAAAAAAAAwk/_ywDYm6nUKM/s640/Package6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
How cool is this mug?! Two of my favorite things - coffee and cupcakes!!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sNKqbh-aWN4/UA6x0zhYIxI/AAAAAAAAAwE/qeKpuWLG8KU/s1600/Package2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sNKqbh-aWN4/UA6x0zhYIxI/AAAAAAAAAwE/qeKpuWLG8KU/s400/Package2.jpg" width="348" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Awesome towels that will probably just be "for looks" :)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zI4bHcVN7tI/UA6x2hK9RHI/AAAAAAAAAwM/LgLBGERwm2w/s1600/Package3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zI4bHcVN7tI/UA6x2hK9RHI/AAAAAAAAAwM/LgLBGERwm2w/s640/Package3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am in love with this plate! You'll probably be seeing it in more posts....</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pABJfYZyLxE/UA6x5AghWoI/AAAAAAAAAwU/rk-4s3R3PAY/s1600/Package4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pABJfYZyLxE/UA6x5AghWoI/AAAAAAAAAwU/rk-4s3R3PAY/s640/Package4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
She couldn't have made a better piece of jewelry for me. Hello! A Cupcake Love Affair in a bracelet!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FhRH3imVWbQ/UA6x7L4E8aI/AAAAAAAAAwc/bINgW51hilQ/s1600/Package5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="368" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FhRH3imVWbQ/UA6x7L4E8aI/AAAAAAAAAwc/bINgW51hilQ/s640/Package5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Merry Christmas in July everyone and, Laurel - Thank you from the bottom of my heart for making me gifts that were most definitely all about me. It's obvious you took your time to really get to know me and I appreciate it so very much! </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
If you haven't yet, check out both Adrianne's and Laurel's blogs. You won't be sorry! Until next time, happy reading and more importantly, happy cupcake-ing!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" /></a></div>Heather @ A Cupcake Love Affairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06837791029345719311noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4406638560173967697.post-12616324203534083572012-07-20T06:00:00.000-04:002012-07-20T06:00:02.330-04:00Fresh & Fruity Jello Cake<br />
Hey friends! I'm really excited to tell you all about this cake! It's been a favorite of my family's since I was a little girl and we eat it quite often in the summertime. It's so light and refreshing and just the perfect ending to a warm evening with friends and family!<br />
<div align="center">
<b><br /></b><br />
<b>Fresh, Fruity Jello Cake</b></div>
<div align="center">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ca5A0LZ1hVc/T-5WZGHpOwI/AAAAAAAAArM/kpdTjzHnu0Y/s1600/JelloCake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="468" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ca5A0LZ1hVc/T-5WZGHpOwI/AAAAAAAAArM/kpdTjzHnu0Y/s640/JelloCake.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Now, growing up, my mom would make this with a boxed white cake mix and Cool Whip. However, since I am now a pastry chef and you are here for a dessert that's a little more impressive, we'll start with a light, airy sponge cake as the base.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<strong>Vanilla Sponge Cake </strong>(adapted from <a href="http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2009/09/tres-leches-cake/" target="_blank">here)</a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span itemprop="amount" style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">1 cup</span><span itemprop="name" style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;"> all purpose flour</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span itemprop="amount" style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">11/2 t</span><span itemprop="name" style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;"> baking powder</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span itemprop="amount" style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">1/4 t s</span><span itemprop="name" style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">alt</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span itemprop="amount" style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">5 whole</span><span itemprop="name" style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;"> eggs</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span itemprop="amount" style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">1 cup</span><span itemprop="name" style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;"> sugar</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span itemprop="amount" style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">1 t v</span><span itemprop="name" style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">anilla</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span itemprop="amount" style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">1/3 cup</span><span itemprop="name" style="border-width: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;"> milk</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Fill muffin pan with liners. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Combine flour, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Separate eggs. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Beat egg yolks with 3/4 cup sugar on high speed until yolks are pale yellow. Stir in milk and vanilla. Pour egg yolk mixture over the flour mixture and stir very gently until combined. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Beat egg whites on high speed until soft peaks form. With the mixer on, pour in remaining 1/4 cup sugar and beat until egg whites are stiff but not dry. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Fold egg white mixture into the batter very gently until just combined. Pour into prepared pan and bake until lightly golden brown and tester inserted into middle comes out clean.</span><br />
<br />
While the cake is cooling, make your favorite flavor of jello, leaving out the cold water. In other words, only use the boiled water it calls for and don't add the cold once it's done cooking. Next, prepare your cake for the jello. For this presentation, I cut the cake into two layers and poured jello over both.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vIn_rHzOpIM/T-5WqUbK7uI/AAAAAAAAArU/Z3YEMvfB5Rw/s1600/JelloCake2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="556" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vIn_rHzOpIM/T-5WqUbK7uI/AAAAAAAAArU/Z3YEMvfB5Rw/s640/JelloCake2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
For the whipped cream I don't really follow an exact recipe. The ingredients I use are heavy whipping cream, confectioner's sugar, and vanilla. The amount of sugar is dependent upon the type of dessert I am making (more for a less sweet cake or pie, and less for a sweeter one). The finishing, and most important, touch is the fresh fruit. You can use whatever you want for this cake. I chose raspberries and blueberries. Traditionally, my mom uses just strawberries. You're probably already thinking this, with the time of year that it is, but this dessert is a great choice for the Fourth of July. In fact, I usually make it every year, forming the American flag on top with strawberries and blueberries. This time I chose to fill the cake with the whipped cream and fruit and then topped it with the same for a more rustic, homemade look. I love how creative you can be with this cake!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s2R55ClW97I/T-5W3se9AhI/AAAAAAAAArg/21W64E4jryo/s1600/JelloCake3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="496" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s2R55ClW97I/T-5W3se9AhI/AAAAAAAAArg/21W64E4jryo/s640/JelloCake3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Just have fun with the flavors, start your own family tradition, and most importantly....<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vyAlUi--ZuY/T-5W6Q0o2QI/AAAAAAAAAro/wygJwsEPq1E/s1600/JelloCake4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="534" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vyAlUi--ZuY/T-5W6Q0o2QI/AAAAAAAAAro/wygJwsEPq1E/s640/JelloCake4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br />
....enjoy!<br />
<br />
Have a wonderful, safe summer and take time to make lots of memories! Time spent with loved ones is more important than any thing you can own and even more than any cake you will eat (it's close...but, yes, even more than cake!) :) Until next time, happy reading and more importantly, happy cupcake-ing!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" /></div>
</div>Heather @ A Cupcake Love Affairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06837791029345719311noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4406638560173967697.post-24511555098072181172012-07-18T14:41:00.000-04:002012-07-18T14:41:50.256-04:00From Book, to Movie, to Dessert!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
So, we're Potterheads at our house. We love the books and have seen all the movies. I faced the release of each new one with mixed emotions - excitement over seeing the books come to life and sadness because we were just that much closer to the end. I love all the characters but my favorite, secretly, is Professor Snape...I just knew how that would end! I wasn't even introduced to this fantastic series until a few weeks before the release of the last book. However, once I started reading, I couldn't put them down...literally! I finished all of the first six books in three weeks which meant lots of late nights and little sleep - well worth it! I'm ashamed to say that even though I live in Florida, I have yet to visit the new theme park. I do plan to hopefully get there before the end of this year....we'll see!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I tell you all of that to get to the reason for today's post - Butterbeer Cupcakes! I can't wait to try the Butterbeer at Wizarding World of HP but these were really yummy in the meantime. My baby sister turned 14 last week and her one request was Butterbeer Cupcakes for her party. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
There are four girls in my family, each unique and awesome in our own right (I may be biased) but also, enough alike to never be mistaken as unrelated. McKenna, the baby, is 16 1/2 years younger than me and let's just say that when my mom found out she was pregnant <i>again</i>, I was less than enthused. I was almost 17, enjoying high school, and the last thing I wanted was another baby in the house. Don't worry...this lasted all of a few weeks until we had that first sonogram picture in our hands. Bam! Excitement abounded!! She was born a month premature and was the most adorable little thing we had ever seen! She is one of my favorite kiddos in the whole world (it helps that she's almost my clone in looks and personality). :) I love her to death and am so proud of the young woman that she's becoming. So, when she asked for these cupcakes, I immediately started looking for recipes and came across <a href="http://www.pastryaffair.com/blog/2011/7/14/butterbeer-cupcakes.html/" target="_blank">this one</a> on Google. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D2aGudCUoFA/UAb7eFLVHeI/AAAAAAAAAvg/oYZwyUxWmUY/s1600/kennacc1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-D2aGudCUoFA/UAb7eFLVHeI/AAAAAAAAAvg/oYZwyUxWmUY/s400/kennacc1.jpg" width="333" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look at all the Butterscotch goodness! :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LAhSedkqA-w/UAb7f0rlszI/AAAAAAAAAvo/9uxMuekw0U4/s1600/kennacc2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="302" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LAhSedkqA-w/UAb7f0rlszI/AAAAAAAAAvo/9uxMuekw0U4/s400/kennacc2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">So rich and delicious!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M85KpcVO9YA/UAb7-ZQIO0I/AAAAAAAAAvw/FyJDM0p1_6A/s1600/kennacc4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M85KpcVO9YA/UAb7-ZQIO0I/AAAAAAAAAvw/FyJDM0p1_6A/s320/kennacc4.jpg" width="314" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I got the cute birthday liners at <a href="http://michaels.com/" target="_blank">Michaels</a>!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Butterbeer Cupcakes</b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">2 cups flour </span><br style="line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" /><span style="line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder </span><br style="line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" /><span style="line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">1/2 teaspoon baking soda </span><br style="line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" /><span style="line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Pinch of salt </span><br style="line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" /><span style="line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened </span><br style="line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" /><span style="line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">1 cup dark brown sugar, packed </span><br style="line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" /><span style="line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">3 large eggs </span><br style="line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" /><span style="line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">2 teaspoons vanilla extract </span><br style="line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" /><span style="line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">1 teaspoon butter flavoring </span><br style="line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" /><span style="line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">1/2 cup buttermilk </span><br style="line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto;" /><span style="line-height: 22px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">1/2 cup cream soda</span></span>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 0em; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line your pan with liners.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 0em; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 0em; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in the vanilla extract and butter flavoring.</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 0em; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Fold in 1/3 of the flour mixture, then the buttermilk, 1/3 of the flour mixture, cream soda, and then the remaining flour. Fill cupcake liners 3/4 of the way full and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the cupcakes are golden and spring back when touched. Cool completely before frosting..</span></div>
<div style="line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 0em; text-align: -webkit-auto;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 0em;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong>Butterscotch Ganache</strong> </span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 0em;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">11 ounces (1 package) butterscotch chips<br />1 cup heavy cream</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 0em;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In the microwave, melt in 30 second increments, stirring after each. Cool to room temperature before using.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 0em;">
</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 0em;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong>Butterscotch Buttercream</strong> </span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 0em;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened<br />1/4 cup butterscotch ganache (recipe above)<br />1 teaspoon vanilla<br />1 teaspoon butter flavoring<br />Pinch of salt<br />3-3 1/2 cups powdered sugar<br />Splash of heavy cream (as needed)</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 0em;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter until light and fluffy. Mix in the butterscotch ganache, vanilla, butter flavoring, and salt. Beat in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time. Add the cream a tablespoon at a time until desired consistency is achieved.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 0em;">
Fill each cooled cupcake with ganache, frost with buttercream, and drizzle more ganach over top.</div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 0em;">
<span style="background-color: white;"> I'll be honest. The idea of these cupcakes is fabulous. The flavor is delicious. However, this cupcake recipe yields a cake that leaves much to be desired. It's really dry. I'm a pastry chef. A cake connoisseur, if you will - definitely a cake snob, anyway. I know how to make a cupcake. I followed the directions to a T. And still, I had a dry cupcake. Thankfully the ganache filling helped and everyone thought they tasted really good, but I just can't let this go. The idea of a Butterbeer Cupcake is too fantastic to leave it in this state. So, it has begun. My quest, if you will, to make the perfect cupcake to do this idea justice! I'll keep you posted as I experiment. This is important, people!</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 0em;">
For now, enjoy trying these out and, McKenna, happy birthday, kiddo!</div>
<br />
</div>
<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yw_EMiYyne0/UAb7befOGLI/AAAAAAAAAvY/Dzd1F_1oms8/s1600/kennacc3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Yw_EMiYyne0/UAb7befOGLI/AAAAAAAAAvY/Dzd1F_1oms8/s640/kennacc3.jpg" width="611" /></a><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" /></a></div>Heather @ A Cupcake Love Affairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06837791029345719311noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4406638560173967697.post-9974540040901169462012-07-13T15:34:00.001-04:002012-07-13T15:34:47.466-04:00Whole Wheat Banana BreadI have a confession to make. I hoard brown bananas. Yep, that's right. Out of every 10 bunches of bananas my family buys, I usually put 10 bananas in the freezer for baking. No joke. I wish I had taken a picture of the bowl of rotten bananas that I pulled out of my freezer before baking this bread! Hindsight and all that. Just trust me on this...I pulled at least 20 nasty looking bananas out of my freezer and did a little happy dance the other night. It's ok. I'm weird and I know it. But really, nothing makes me happier some days than one of those guys. The browner and squishier (is that even a word?) the better!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
When they start to look like this...</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Qv-QUOFhAI/UABungK3YZI/AAAAAAAAAuQ/GCARsi2rbdo/s1600/rotten+bananas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="277" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Qv-QUOFhAI/UABungK3YZI/AAAAAAAAAuQ/GCARsi2rbdo/s400/rotten+bananas.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cheshirealice.blogspot.com/2011/04/when-life-gives-you-rotten-bananas-make.html" target="_blank">Source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><div style="text-align: center;">
...I put them in the freezer, they turn to this...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2j-3rhwh0I8/UABvPR3yUrI/AAAAAAAAAuY/_rZAtxYY4QM/s1600/rotten+bananas2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2j-3rhwh0I8/UABvPR3yUrI/AAAAAAAAAuY/_rZAtxYY4QM/s400/rotten+bananas2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://projectshannon.blogspot.com/2010/12/recipe-banana-bread.html" target="_blank">Source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><div style="text-align: center;">
...and I turn them into this...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p4qFphiiPP8/UABvfL1J7KI/AAAAAAAAAuo/FzAm8Au6CfQ/s1600/BananaBread2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="268" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p4qFphiiPP8/UABvfL1J7KI/AAAAAAAAAuo/FzAm8Au6CfQ/s400/BananaBread2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whole Wheat Loaf ready to be shipped to a friend!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--VZWvQSFJuU/UABvhNLSZbI/AAAAAAAAAuw/h0RsedDrHIw/s1600/BananaBread3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--VZWvQSFJuU/UABvhNLSZbI/AAAAAAAAAuw/h0RsedDrHIw/s400/BananaBread3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Slices of the loaf that my family got to eat! :)<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I love banana bread! It's one of my favorite comfort foods and one of my favorite ways to enjoy it is with some peanut butter spread on a warm slice. Yum! I have tried several different recipes and, while I've found several that I like, this one is my favorite because, one, it's moist and, two, the ingredients are a little healthier than other versions so I don't feel quite as bad if I eat half a loaf. Not that I would, of course! :)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Whole Wheat Banana Bread </b>(adapted from <a href="http://www.kingarthurflour.com/recipes/banana-bread-recipe" target="_blank">here</a>)</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<ul style="border: 0px; font: inherit; line-height: 1.5; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 1.5em -24px; padding: 0px 0px 0px 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto; vertical-align: baseline; word-wrap: break-word;">
<li id="IngredientLine" style="border: 0px; font: inherit; line-height: 1.2; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.5em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened</span></li>
<li id="IngredientLine" style="border: 0px; font: inherit; line-height: 1.2; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.5em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2/3 cup dark brown sugar, packed</span></li>
<li id="IngredientLine" style="border: 0px; font: inherit; line-height: 1.2; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.5em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 teaspoon vanilla extract</span></li>
<li id="IngredientLine" style="border: 0px; font: inherit; line-height: 1.2; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.5em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 teaspoon ground cinnamon</span></li>
<li id="IngredientLine" style="border: 0px; font: inherit; line-height: 1.2; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.5em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg</span></li>
<li id="IngredientLine" style="border: 0px; font: inherit; line-height: 1.2; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.5em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">3/4 teaspoon baking soda</span></li>
<li id="IngredientLine" style="border: 0px; font: inherit; line-height: 1.2; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.5em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 1.2;">1/2 teaspoon salt</span></li>
<li id="IngredientLine" style="border: 0px; font: inherit; line-height: 1.2; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.5em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3-4 medium bananas)</span></li>
<li id="IngredientLine" style="border: 0px; font: inherit; line-height: 1.2; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.5em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1/4 cup honey</span></li>
<li id="IngredientLine" style="border: 0px; font: inherit; line-height: 1.2; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.5em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2 large eggs</span></li>
<li id="IngredientLine" style="border: 0px; font: inherit; line-height: 1.2; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.5em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">2 cups whole wheat flour (can subsitute AP or use half and half)</span></li>
<li id="IngredientLine" style="border: 0px; font: inherit; line-height: 1.2; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.5em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1/2 cup chopped walnuts, optional</span></li>
<li id="IngredientLine" style="border: 0px; font: inherit; line-height: 1.2; list-style: none; margin: 0px 0px 0.5em; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; word-wrap: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">1 cup chocolate chips, optional</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="line-height: 19px;">Preheat oven to 350 degrees and lightly grease loaf pan(s).</span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="line-height: 19px;">Beat together butter, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, baking soda, and salt until smooth. Add in bananas, honey, and eggs and beat until smooth again. Mix in flour, one cup at a time, until smooth and add in optional ingredients. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="line-height: 19px;">Bake at 350 degrees for about 45 minutes to one hour (depending on oven), watching top for signs of burning. If you see that your top is getting done too fast, place a piece of aluminum foil on top of bread to slow it down. Once a tester inserted into center of loaf comes out clean, remove bread from oven and cool about 15 minutes before removing from pan.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="line-height: 19px;">Baker's tip:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="line-height: 19px;">Have you ever noticed that things taste different depending on temperature? The best time to taste test your baked goods is once they reach room temp. Now, I'm not saying that this is how I enjoy eating all baked goods! I definitely prefer my cookies a little warm. However, if you're wanting to know what your finished product actually tastes like (i.e. how well all the ingredients came together, do I need to add more banana to my recipe?, etc...), let it cool to room temp and taste it then. If you have perfected your recipes and know, for sure, that it's exactly the way you want it, then by all means, eat that cookie while it's still warm and gooey! The messier the better! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="line-height: 19px;">However you like to enjoy your banana bread, give this recipe a try. It's a little nicer to the hips and, really, very tasty! Until next time, happy reading and more importantly, happy <strike>taste-testing</strike> cupcake-ing!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">
<span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>Heather @ A Cupcake Love Affairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06837791029345719311noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4406638560173967697.post-66814608583300798722012-07-09T10:15:00.001-04:002012-07-09T16:56:36.720-04:00Fresh Fruit Tart for Summer<div style="text-align: center;">
Hey friends! I was a guest over at <a href="http://shakentogether.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Shaken Together</a> two weeks ago and today I'm sharing the dessert I made with you! Now, I know this is another patriotic post, however, this dessert can be made for any occasion. All you have to do is arrange the fruit any way you want! You can also use more than just blueberries and straeberries. Bananas, kiwi, raspberries...the possibilities are endless!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So, without further ado...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Red, White, & Blueberry Fruit Tart</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br />
</b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
To start, use a good quality tart pan (if you don't have one, you could easily use a pie plate or even, in a pinch, a cake plate). Spray the pan with cooking spray and line with your pie dough. I have a confession. I buy mine. I know...I know. I'm a pastry chef who doesn't make her own pie dough. However, I just don't think the small difference in taste or pride or whatever it is that drives people to do it is worth the time and effort. I've found that Publix, Pillsbury, and even the brand at Sweetbay are just as tasty and oh so easier to deal with. You'll find what I'm talking about in the refrigerated dough section of the grocery store and they usually come in a package of two. They're rolled up so all you have to do is remove the dough from the box and plastic sleeve, roll it out, shape it however you want, and voila! Done is done. If you have to make it from scratch, by all means, do so. In fact, you can come over to my house and make it for me from now on! ;)</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cctd3H3pE3s/T-Uuv07n3OI/AAAAAAAAApY/6Y-2fVsEegU/s1600/fruit-tart1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cctd3H3pE3s/T-Uuv07n3OI/AAAAAAAAApY/6Y-2fVsEegU/s640/fruit-tart1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
Anyway, whatever dough you use, press it into your pan, poking holes in it with a fork, place a layer of either aluminum foil or wax paper on it, fill it with dry beans or rice, and bake until golden brown. </div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
Once the crust is baked, set aside and let it cool.</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
Now, on to the pudding (or creme patisserie<span style="background-color: white;">, aka pastry cream,</span><span style="background-color: white;"> if you wanna be fancy). This stuff is amazing and totally worth the effort and time to make it! This is what pudding should taste like!</span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Pastry Cream</b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br />
</b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 cups whole milk (don't skimp on the fat, use whole, you'll thank me later)</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/4 cup granulated sugar<br />
2 egg yolks<br />
1 egg<br />
1/4 cup cornstarch</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
1/3 cup granulated sugar</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
1 teaspoon vanilla extract</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
2 Tablespoon unsalted butter</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
Warm milk & 1/4 cup sugar over medium heat just until it starts to steam and you see little bubbles forming on top. Meanwhile, whisk yolks, whole egg, sugar, and cornstarch until smooth and pale yellow in color. Next, pour half of milk into egg mixture while whisking to temper eggs. Pour egg mixture into pan with the rest of the milk and heat, whisking constantly, until bubbling and thick, pudding-like in texture. Remove from heat and add vanilla and butter; mix until butter is melted. Pour into pie crust, cover with plastic wrap making sure plastic touches top of pudding to prevent a film from forming, and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight. </div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
The day that you are serving, place your fruit in whatever design you want and you're ready to enjoy!</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
For the star design, here's what I did:<br />
<br />
I cut out a parchment round the size of my pan. Then, I drew a star on the parchment and cut it out. I used this template for placing my fruit on the tart, starting with the blueberries, then moving on to the strawberries. I kept filling in fruit until I reached the look I wanted. You could also make an American flag. When I'm making this dessert for something other than a patriotic holiday, I usually add kiwi, raspberries, and bananas and alternate the pattern for a beautiful presentation. The possibilities are endless! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Og9-mo7L0NU/T-U04QNvUzI/AAAAAAAAApk/hWwx-TtqC_s/s1600/fruit-tart7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="368" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Og9-mo7L0NU/T-U04QNvUzI/AAAAAAAAApk/hWwx-TtqC_s/s400/fruit-tart7.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Well, I hope you enjoyed reading about this dessert but, more importantly, that you try it for yourself. It really is delicious and perfect for summer!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" /></a></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>Heather @ A Cupcake Love Affairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06837791029345719311noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4406638560173967697.post-26902642086044355302012-07-04T07:17:00.000-04:002012-07-04T07:17:35.079-04:00Red {Velvet} White and Blue CupcakesHappy Independence Day, friends! To say that I'm proud to be an American is a huge understatement. I love this country. I love the principles it was founded on, the people who live here, and the flag that waves. I'm so thankful to live in a country where, for hundreds of years, we've had the freedom to worship my Savior and read His Word without persecution or fear of worse. I'm extremely thankful and truly humbled by those who sacrifice each and every day to fight for my freedom and the rights that I enjoy daily. <br />
<br />
So, this morning, I want to say thank you. Thank you, Lord, for giving us this great nation and your gift of salvation that really gives us a reason to celebrate. Thank you, forefathers, for believing in something enough to fight for it. Thank you, men and women who serve, for giving of yourselves and putting your lives on the line so that I can remain free. Thank you, Old Glory, for waving and offering us hope. Thank you, America, thank you...<br />
<div>
<br />
Today I'm sharing, not a new recipe, but a new technique that helped me make these beautful cupcakes. I came across this icing technique one day while <strike>wasting time on</strike> browsing the internet. </div>
<div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eUVS2s94pZE/T_QhsqNlUXI/AAAAAAAAAtE/buAg2MKu7pg/s1600/RedWhite&BlueCC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eUVS2s94pZE/T_QhsqNlUXI/AAAAAAAAAtE/buAg2MKu7pg/s640/RedWhite&BlueCC.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
How cool does that look? We had a 4th of July picnic at church Sunday night and I brought these babies. Let me tell you...they were a huge hit! I started with my tried and true <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/paula-deen/grandmother-pauls-red-velvet-cake-recipe/index.html" target="_blank">Red Velvet</a> cake recipe, added my favorite <a href="http://www.wilton.com/recipe/White-Chocolate-Buttercream-Icing" target="_blank">White Chocolate</a> buttercream, threw in some food coloring and an awesome <a href="http://www.goodlifeeats.com/2011/03/kitchen-tip-multi-swirled-frosting.html" target="_blank">technique</a>, and there you have it...beautiful, delicious cupcakes perfect for a patriotic celebration! <br />
<br />
This is the second time I've used this technique (the first was for my <a href="http://cupcakeloveaffair.blogspot.com/2012/06/never-tried-nutella-what.html" target="_blank">Nutella</a> cupcakes). This time I needed to swirl three colors together and used a straight tip instead of a star. I just loved the result! I should probably warn you...you may be seeing a lot more swirled icing on this blog now that I've got it figured out! :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b0yRmwdC-5M/T_QhybBHObI/AAAAAAAAAtM/h-Cy7Lo6rJw/s1600/RedWhite%2526BlueCC2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b0yRmwdC-5M/T_QhybBHObI/AAAAAAAAAtM/h-Cy7Lo6rJw/s400/RedWhite%2526BlueCC2.jpg" width="267" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L6nMegExl8k/T_Qh3ecWRpI/AAAAAAAAAtU/kzRVTF7Ch8I/s1600/RedWhite%2526BlueCC3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L6nMegExl8k/T_Qh3ecWRpI/AAAAAAAAAtU/kzRVTF7Ch8I/s400/RedWhite%2526BlueCC3.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DWVd0pZYZyw/T_Qh6b1YrXI/AAAAAAAAAtc/3Hqfq3ZJ4hU/s1600/RedWhite%2526BlueCC4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DWVd0pZYZyw/T_Qh6b1YrXI/AAAAAAAAAtc/3Hqfq3ZJ4hU/s400/RedWhite%2526BlueCC4.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RCz7n9ziOIg/T_Qh8jz48tI/AAAAAAAAAtk/bAytr9NGUsQ/s1600/RedWhite%2526BlueCC5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="427" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RCz7n9ziOIg/T_Qh8jz48tI/AAAAAAAAAtk/bAytr9NGUsQ/s640/RedWhite%2526BlueCC5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I hope that you all have a fun, safe holiday with your friends and family! Before I go, here's a picture of my friend's sweet baby girl, enjoying our picnic (and one of my cupcakes) Sunday night...<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uJC2MGSv9iU/T_Qk29uhh3I/AAAAAAAAAtw/s8Qbqi4vU1c/s1600/aubrey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uJC2MGSv9iU/T_Qk29uhh3I/AAAAAAAAAtw/s8Qbqi4vU1c/s400/aubrey.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
Ha! I love it! Until next time, happy reading, happy cupcake-ing, but more importantly, happy 4th of July!!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" /></div>
</div>Heather @ A Cupcake Love Affairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06837791029345719311noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4406638560173967697.post-14109678632155255622012-07-03T07:09:00.000-04:002012-07-03T07:09:18.306-04:00First Swap = One Happy Girl!Hey friends! Today I'm excited to share with you another fun event I took place in last month. Back in May, I signed up to be a part of a Secret Summer Swap hosted by Jacinta over at <a href="http://www.mybeautyboxes.com/" target="_blank">My Beauty Boxes</a>. I wasn't really sure what to expect because I'd never done a swap before. Basically you just sign up, get paired up, send a package, and receive a package. This was so fun! I got paired up with someone I had never "met" in the bloggy world so I got to meet a new friend and learn all about her. I sent her package off and that same day received my own... <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zHvfJ3OV58g/T_Iz9Y786YI/AAAAAAAAAsU/wyOgz7o-R70/s1600/SummerSwap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zHvfJ3OV58g/T_Iz9Y786YI/AAAAAAAAAsU/wyOgz7o-R70/s400/SummerSwap.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hello! Who wouldn't be happy to open up this box of goodies!! Pamela of <a href="http://pamelasheavenlytreats.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Pamela's Heavenly Treats</a> got my name and couldn't have put together a better package. My favorite color is green, I'm a coffee-aholic, I bake almost every day, and I've been wanting to try out her cake mixes for awhile. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eoTukhD3pC0/T_I1IkYW2EI/AAAAAAAAAsk/wWwXRGD0Yzk/s1600/SummerSwap4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eoTukhD3pC0/T_I1IkYW2EI/AAAAAAAAAsk/wWwXRGD0Yzk/s400/SummerSwap4.jpg" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Coffee, green cupcake liners, and baker's twine</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QDNREKwj4Uw/T_I1C2pyWcI/AAAAAAAAAsc/Sj22WlEWUeY/s1600/SummerSwap5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QDNREKwj4Uw/T_I1C2pyWcI/AAAAAAAAAsc/Sj22WlEWUeY/s400/SummerSwap5.jpg" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Awesome coffee mug!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m2e4zPdkGwk/T_I1Ptt0NoI/AAAAAAAAAs4/D9542jLJwbQ/s1600/SummerSwap2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-m2e4zPdkGwk/T_I1Ptt0NoI/AAAAAAAAAs4/D9542jLJwbQ/s400/SummerSwap2.jpg" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Measuring cups & spoons, and green nail polish</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8030bITl3-8/T_I1Mkn3BKI/AAAAAAAAAsw/xavz8d4WbBI/s1600/SummerSwap3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8030bITl3-8/T_I1Mkn3BKI/AAAAAAAAAsw/xavz8d4WbBI/s400/SummerSwap3.jpg" width="267" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Green oven mits, Whole Wheat Chocolate Cupcake Mix<br />
<br />
<div align="left">
</div>
<br />
<div align="left">
</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Jacinta, thank you for hosting such a fun swap and, Pamela, thank you, thank you for an awesome package!! I've already put it to good use and can't wait to try the mix! <br />
<br />
Don't worry, readers, tomorrow we'll be right back to the delicious desserts! Until then, happy reading and more importantly, happy cupcake-ing!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zGUEIS3Q5MA/T5sT3w8cyzI/AAAAAAAAAZM/A_F1JIfqCyg/s1600/signature.jpg" /></div>Heather @ A Cupcake Love Affairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06837791029345719311noreply@blogger.com4