tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50825148547788371412024-02-20T15:21:49.202-08:00be confectionaterachel beehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03596528108025086898noreply@blogger.comBlogger119125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5082514854778837141.post-43145864403764334482012-10-28T12:41:00.000-07:002012-10-28T12:41:56.294-07:00Coconut Macaroons: Baking in Augusta GAWell, fancy seeing me here!<br />
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It seems as if lots of people are still checking in on me, so I feel I need to give something to read (or at least drool over).<br />
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I have been incredibly busy with other ventures, but as fall rolls around, I cannot help but turn my oven back on. As most of you know, Augusta is brutal during the summer, and baking just doesn't seem right (or lawful, even). But as I stroll through the grocery store, bins full of shiny apples bid me "come." So it's into the kitchen, and again to you.<br />
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And today, it's easy, goopy, and delicious: macaroons.<br />
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Coconut, condensed milk, egg whites, a splash of vanilla, and a pinch of salt are all it takes to make this old fashioned treat in your kitchen. Chocolate? Who needs it? Oh... ok. We do. Grab some chocolate, too.<br />
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So scrape your ingredients together, and make this crunchy, chewy, perfectly sweet treat.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #6aa84f;"><b>Coconut Macaroons</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #6aa84f;"><b><br /></b></span>
<b>1 14 oz bag of shredded sweetened coconut*</b><br />
<b>1 14 oz can of sweetened condensed milk</b><br />
<b>2 egg whites, whipped but not too dry</b><br />
<b>pinch of salt</b><br />
<b>1 t vanilla extract</b><br />
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Combine the extract, salt, milk, and coconut in a large bowl. Fold in the egg whites, trying not to delate them.<br />
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Preheat the oven to 325, and place rounded spoonfuls of the mixture (1.5-1.75 inches in diameter) onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes.<br />
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Melt some chocolate in a double boiler and drizzle on top.<br />
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*I toasted my coconut first. Not a necessary step (although a delicious one).<br />
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<br />rachel beehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03596528108025086898noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5082514854778837141.post-19072765031827662572012-05-18T03:59:00.002-07:002012-05-18T04:13:02.651-07:00A busy girl... Cake in Augusta GAHi, all! I recognize it has been quite a while, but with a move and other ultra business, I haven't the time to spend in this space right now. I am dropping by to show you some pics of my last wedding, and then I am off to the kitchen to prepare for another! <br />
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My husband actually photographed this wedding, and despite the usual stress surrounding such an event, we had a wonderful time.<br />
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White, black, and hot pink were the only instructions given, so I went with Beatty's chocolate cake, Marshmallow Frosting, and pink and black flowers.<br />
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Of course I used the airbrush to add some sparkle. Despite using it heavily for makeup, I do clean it out on occasion to make it acceptable for shimmer. What a difference a little shine can make!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_r3aWn1NRgxO8GfjLR7p_GAOzhrOsby31UjJfu4MeDKJ_l06ZKfNRVl2n3i3NV_ogseel2YAeA9FYLwoDN6y-Be609s9LQdeqtGZWpdY9r7-wg9w94jeP864VTbZZ2rxgBfAN_ahYaX8/s1600/amanda+wedding+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_r3aWn1NRgxO8GfjLR7p_GAOzhrOsby31UjJfu4MeDKJ_l06ZKfNRVl2n3i3NV_ogseel2YAeA9FYLwoDN6y-Be609s9LQdeqtGZWpdY9r7-wg9w94jeP864VTbZZ2rxgBfAN_ahYaX8/s640/amanda+wedding+3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And this is my ombre Fender pick cake (aka the groom's cake). It took everything out of me not to airbrush it.<br />
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And this weekend I leave at 9am to do 10 makeup applications in Lincolnton, and then back to Evans to pick up 160 cupcakes and a cake to drive over to Appling by 5pm. It is a busy one, but I do plan on coming back to invest into this space soon.<br />
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Have a great day!<br />
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Rachelrachel beehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03596528108025086898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5082514854778837141.post-71695199683876648292012-04-24T06:32:00.002-07:002012-04-24T06:32:16.190-07:00God is faithful- Hair, makeup, and cake in Augusta, GAHey, all!<br />
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Yes, I am still here, still doing hair and makeup, and of course: baking.<br />
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I have another wedding this weekend after a long weekend of prom do's and the like <i>last</i> weekend. My mother is in town this week, and I am actually going to send my child with her to the zoo in Columbia today (nervous). Despite baking for a cake and cupcakes for 200 for Friday (and then assisting my darling hubs with the photography), a girl still needs to do some hair, and pack not one but TWO households for a move next week (still in Augusta, y'all).<br />
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Yes, I know that God has been very generous to me, and although I find his logic confusing at times- I am so grateful. Philippians 1:6 reads that He who started a work in us will be faithful to complete it, and I am leaning in on his promises like never before.<br />
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He is faithful!<br />
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So, here are some pictures of a wedding I did last month (hair+mu+cake). The cake was lemon with lemon curd and lemon Swiss Meringue Buttercream.<br />
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Enjoy!<br />
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<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTCpsoxFW5SYrF0oOA7sdlvdFPxZeCFj4lyJbybrhtE9kLLOz7G1xkjltbZLh9te0Wo26MZM5isOOc_La61NIBl0lalTliuzieo2DO1qZ_6KEhhXlsJ5Sl6hvzpJ-0lDCpNAqvfDoTllo/s1600/311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTCpsoxFW5SYrF0oOA7sdlvdFPxZeCFj4lyJbybrhtE9kLLOz7G1xkjltbZLh9te0Wo26MZM5isOOc_La61NIBl0lalTliuzieo2DO1qZ_6KEhhXlsJ5Sl6hvzpJ-0lDCpNAqvfDoTllo/s640/311.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Airbrush Makeup in Augusta GA</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUhoD2kyCSKwsJsgwrfnqsh9TaOphxlnXPQLlEsuZZpOjJVJbcY-CBZE2sYzJWHUL8w6LVbJl1ih9j_yve4GSZEbIGJoAlDBgGdQ5FyD44vpx3wHsXrcfUqY9bLxThr5d1_m7SCtJwUgA/s1600/102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUhoD2kyCSKwsJsgwrfnqsh9TaOphxlnXPQLlEsuZZpOjJVJbcY-CBZE2sYzJWHUL8w6LVbJl1ih9j_yve4GSZEbIGJoAlDBgGdQ5FyD44vpx3wHsXrcfUqY9bLxThr5d1_m7SCtJwUgA/s640/102.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Airbrush Makeup in Augusta GA</td></tr>
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<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixfnkFp-oxHh92G2JgRqeqIMAIS630jKcceTfIG1li4cmNu29BszBKoYHPjUnItsCreJVSVpd9d-tO9GR_Dr09BkjtDNIUhyQjsUzvsgoC4Itv6dtIfcNMuHpMrx9H2N0JsqsJpSSEI_o/s1600/347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixfnkFp-oxHh92G2JgRqeqIMAIS630jKcceTfIG1li4cmNu29BszBKoYHPjUnItsCreJVSVpd9d-tO9GR_Dr09BkjtDNIUhyQjsUzvsgoC4Itv6dtIfcNMuHpMrx9H2N0JsqsJpSSEI_o/s640/347.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bird Wedding Cake in Augusta GA</td></tr>
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<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5MEnEd3hliQMVbMeCYQgOy0yckuAEHB-M8vnyj0LcOfZfkVEixuglb6mYOUcpI8UEJVGoYpJ9gUAg33xgn0IxF5a5L669wiktGMcv0RWXsl3N_imvN7VnsnvdDvZNuDhux7T_bY25PvU/s1600/346.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5MEnEd3hliQMVbMeCYQgOy0yckuAEHB-M8vnyj0LcOfZfkVEixuglb6mYOUcpI8UEJVGoYpJ9gUAg33xgn0IxF5a5L669wiktGMcv0RWXsl3N_imvN7VnsnvdDvZNuDhux7T_bY25PvU/s640/346.jpg" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bird Wedding Cake in Augusta GA</td></tr>
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<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH3KJlfaanLAgr0eFi6NOCHL-pSj-oX6Wmj7augh84nLwJD7B8SdvG28ZpLRS16e8TxK7GrLUuTtnWdgBTVE_3mWlDhJ-M_dBIjzExc2NQd2FB_RxAkK0QHWj-yg-chQssgvaJijlvMXM/s1600/380.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH3KJlfaanLAgr0eFi6NOCHL-pSj-oX6Wmj7augh84nLwJD7B8SdvG28ZpLRS16e8TxK7GrLUuTtnWdgBTVE_3mWlDhJ-M_dBIjzExc2NQd2FB_RxAkK0QHWj-yg-chQssgvaJijlvMXM/s640/380.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bird Wedding Cake in Augusta GA</td></tr>
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Gorgeous. I think, anyhow.<br />
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All photos courtesy of Callie Murray Photography.<br />
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Love to you all! I'll be back!<br />
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Rachel Beerachel beehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03596528108025086898noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5082514854778837141.post-52738720229887396962012-04-06T03:25:00.000-07:002012-04-06T03:25:16.646-07:00The cool kids call it "SMBC:" Cake in Augusta, GAI have been up to a lot lately, which is really nothing new except we are adding 'moving" to our repertoire this month. I am sure we have all been there, but I must say that my house is in a continual state of scramble (and will be for at least the next month).<br />
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But outside of moving, I have been baking all sorts of cakes and cupcakes for different events that I realized I haven't ever shared with you, and I suppose now is as good a time as any....<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXCmsUSZcNk1Q0eBnf-SaIU6TzGG3qVenM5M-0rWdawJ5Z-gCNW27u_xoJeFWZ64bYo_Ux20yfZ-G2OGzQ__O_AFHX8lTtmI3yi8E3aPvOCa4mhphKDEwWbtmMvzHBkodszXZZNmJUMCo/s1600/Swiss+meringue+bc+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXCmsUSZcNk1Q0eBnf-SaIU6TzGG3qVenM5M-0rWdawJ5Z-gCNW27u_xoJeFWZ64bYo_Ux20yfZ-G2OGzQ__O_AFHX8lTtmI3yi8E3aPvOCa4mhphKDEwWbtmMvzHBkodszXZZNmJUMCo/s640/Swiss+meringue+bc+1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breakfast at Tiffany's Cupcakes</td></tr>
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I made these cuties for a "Breakfast at Tiffany's" themed breakfast at my church. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfSuZXUI4BHhw2EJp5GOVUQjtchQNTWiwQ7d50-1na4RGW5uvokaKOCtlwAvKkEgLJsKyDo0X1Amf3Wi_R7wQVEUFxeh1Y1AgU5BM-UCkWIkLfnK27yhAYYP3zTgCUDZzv6tsC4aeGjXE/s1600/Swiss+meringue+bc+18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfSuZXUI4BHhw2EJp5GOVUQjtchQNTWiwQ7d50-1na4RGW5uvokaKOCtlwAvKkEgLJsKyDo0X1Amf3Wi_R7wQVEUFxeh1Y1AgU5BM-UCkWIkLfnK27yhAYYP3zTgCUDZzv6tsC4aeGjXE/s640/Swiss+meringue+bc+18.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fist Birthday Cupcakes</td></tr>
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And I made these for a 1st birthday party. They are quite possibly the most precious cakes I have ever made. Don't you think?<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZOZE111Wy37id2IbxMMHeF9uZ06rnoXT5M7EoyAEUpz-iz-_-B6lCEKeFAAmgnQEOwXaELmDsOUX-fHqYNedEnVZwxQZDDXzbcbDY1GhC0CkBaSMUD-nUC5C3hI53WYXrL2M5SJnitw8/s1600/Swiss+meringue+bc+13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZOZE111Wy37id2IbxMMHeF9uZ06rnoXT5M7EoyAEUpz-iz-_-B6lCEKeFAAmgnQEOwXaELmDsOUX-fHqYNedEnVZwxQZDDXzbcbDY1GhC0CkBaSMUD-nUC5C3hI53WYXrL2M5SJnitw8/s640/Swiss+meringue+bc+13.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ruffle Cake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And a ruffled smash cake to go along with them. <br />
<br />
I also had a wedding cake, which I will show you next week. It showed up on the right day, even (for those of you who get that reference). <br />
<br />
For special events: events when I know that cakes might be sitting out for a while, I always choose to use Swiss Meringue Buttercream. Sure, it is a lot of work, but its silkiness and staying-power cannot be reproduced. And the flavor: velvety smooth, and not overpowering next to a well baked cake. It pipes beautifully, and I venture to say that it almost sparkles.<br />
<br />
Take some time to make some this week, but don't if you don't have a stand mixer. I cannot imagine how difficult it would be without one. <br />
<br />
Refer to my very first blogpost: <a href="http://beconfectionate.blogspot.com/2010/12/i-heart-pot-luck-dinners.html">here</a> for a recipe. Enjoy, and if I don't see you again, have a lovely Easter.<br />
<br />
Rachel Bee<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #8e7cc3;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #8e7cc3;"><br /></span>rachel beehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03596528108025086898noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5082514854778837141.post-35063226163344723662012-03-22T17:08:00.000-07:002012-03-22T18:57:22.727-07:00Community Cupcakes; Cake in Augusta, GAI worked on these for last week, but couldn't get them finished. So here they are: a week late, and so very quickly as the show is about to start.<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQG2fRHw-i7RYvHUiHhm190ddJo27tH13FEVbio_axWbrdhCdPIGIFbaahFoXcUsp47cVfVhswoha6ZZpHxr1Z6-SSVokLk_eGfx78YM_Bw_WtQGESN6sjKZTJl_5H9yCw7goC0MTwbB4/s1600/community+cupcakes+71.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQG2fRHw-i7RYvHUiHhm190ddJo27tH13FEVbio_axWbrdhCdPIGIFbaahFoXcUsp47cVfVhswoha6ZZpHxr1Z6-SSVokLk_eGfx78YM_Bw_WtQGESN6sjKZTJl_5H9yCw7goC0MTwbB4/s640/community+cupcakes+71.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pierce, Annie, Shirley, Chang, Abed, The Dean, Troy, Jeff, and Britta</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Yes, they are a bit dorky, and outside of Pierce look nothing like their characters; but it is all I can do to say, "thanks" to whomever is responsible for bringing the show back. My husband and I relate to so little, but we seem to fit right in at Greendale. <br />
<br />
<i>E Pluribus Anus</i><br />
<i><br /></i><br />
Rachel Beerachel beehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03596528108025086898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5082514854778837141.post-9311119387723987262012-03-13T02:32:00.000-07:002012-03-13T02:35:34.898-07:00Eat... don't think! Cake in Augusta, GAIt's going to be a long week of baking and wedding hair and makeup, but I thought I would drop in to tell you about something I made last week. <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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_C2_PM-8xrTf_18soJvoD4vbiVYNyXevsKBefr1odFqA9MAtun5rn9PURnV9uZPQwuyAmVJVUWcP_UG5epKf-vHFFWcKRj1bo1zN80C9Dgmhyphenhyphen40Kx3UBeaCT7w3BiXwXNSYabTYuvd-I/s1600/425831_10151365476780245_821450244_23524578_343604016_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_C2_PM-8xrTf_18soJvoD4vbiVYNyXevsKBefr1odFqA9MAtun5rn9PURnV9uZPQwuyAmVJVUWcP_UG5epKf-vHFFWcKRj1bo1zN80C9Dgmhyphenhyphen40Kx3UBeaCT7w3BiXwXNSYabTYuvd-I/s640/425831_10151365476780245_821450244_23524578_343604016_n.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zebra Cake in Augusta, GA</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Yes! I made this cake (well, with God's help)! Please don't mind the horrible piping; it always seems like a good idea before I start. <br />
<br />
Despite the grandiose exterior, the real treasure of this cake is on the inside. The young lady who ordered this cake wanted a "Vanilla Cake with Cream Cheese Filling." Ordinarily I would make a cream cheese frosting, but this time I decided to make a from-scratch no-bake cheesecake filling. And then I filled some cupcakes with 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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzZdtyD81TIRq4gnJXPAzPRvSLUoE81jdEvOBhEV6Yxz74yO8dSiP9OaLwMQGqpWO50RMMrB6puNBZwuRSuLEhigxqMEedtZpCcx1p3llO7FT-ChyphenhyphenE45MeJXqtDDb-1oiu-D4iUa49rpw/s1600/choc+cream+cheese+cc++45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzZdtyD81TIRq4gnJXPAzPRvSLUoE81jdEvOBhEV6Yxz74yO8dSiP9OaLwMQGqpWO50RMMrB6puNBZwuRSuLEhigxqMEedtZpCcx1p3llO7FT-ChyphenhyphenE45MeJXqtDDb-1oiu-D4iUa49rpw/s640/choc+cream+cheese+cc++45.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheesecake filling</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Chocolate Cake, Whipped Ganache, and Cheesecake Filling. Don't think about it too much, just eat.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0e9UlxRUHZSi_kUXMkQSReANdXk8iraboIw8bJ8xijQUX46rnLC8N1g-02RxyDuNT0aY8QhESxReVwKUyrGxh_6UVkwRFsGEnQjk23dGeatyajU4Uu_JYECrnnYU8yvG42jRpGAu3FQo/s1600/choc+cream+cheese+cc++43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0e9UlxRUHZSi_kUXMkQSReANdXk8iraboIw8bJ8xijQUX46rnLC8N1g-02RxyDuNT0aY8QhESxReVwKUyrGxh_6UVkwRFsGEnQjk23dGeatyajU4Uu_JYECrnnYU8yvG42jRpGAu3FQo/s640/choc+cream+cheese+cc++43.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheesecake filling</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The tart filling is perfect in this otherwise very sweet cupcake, and there is just enough to enjoy the textural decadence, but not enough to make you regret (if you are prone to such an emotion as I am).<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhICWZMzbhNI7_TL-CIzheG8IZ9MuD5g2jh27ydKRUpqYHp5v39pnsraMfkx5cOaX38Y5rU4kX8VXA8iHxbouEsPbRc7sh_TSxBS56FRN6i97u-dx48rh7NWlWyGoDx8xkoE622WStLcXM/s1600/choc+cream+cheese+cc++38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhICWZMzbhNI7_TL-CIzheG8IZ9MuD5g2jh27ydKRUpqYHp5v39pnsraMfkx5cOaX38Y5rU4kX8VXA8iHxbouEsPbRc7sh_TSxBS56FRN6i97u-dx48rh7NWlWyGoDx8xkoE622WStLcXM/s640/choc+cream+cheese+cc++38.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheesecake filling</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
To finish, top them with some crushed chocolate cookies (I had graham crackers), and they become altogether divine.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #674ea7;">No-Bake Cheesecake Filling</span><br />
2 blocks of cream cheese, softened<br />
1 can sweetened condensed milk<br />
1 t vanilla extract<br />
juice of one lemon, freshly squeezed<br />
<br />
Cream the cream cheese in a bowl until... well, creamy. Beat in the sweetened condensed milk an mix until smooth, being sure to scrape down the sides and bottom of the bowl on occasion. Add the lemon juice and vanilla extract, and mix until thoroughly incorporated. Use as desired.<br />
<br />
As far as a chocolate cupcake recipe, I used <a href="http://beconfectionate.blogspot.com/2011/04/cupcake-disaster.html">this one.</a><br />
<br />
Enjoy, and have a really, really good day.<br />
<br />
Rachel Beerachel beehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03596528108025086898noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5082514854778837141.post-847905722146293162012-03-06T04:40:00.000-08:002012-03-06T04:47:03.055-08:00Hummingbird Cupcakes: Cake in Augusta, GAGood morning! <br />
<br />
It has been a busy couple of weeks in my home, but especially in my kitchen. Cupcakes, cakes, my first ever cream puffs, and hair and makeup (of course) have all but saturated the landscape of my weeks lately. <br />
<br />
I am dropping in today to share with you my very favorite cake recipe: The Hummingbird Cake. <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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJUYeFCugG_RIr6wqYuSLK6wlITNjsyWdW2CYUveIv9iXxhuSCyPCPw_XPoeO0i7K_3QEFUPeq9_SHRleJetwo01XM76FS5DsUpt7VxhF_lgFqHdS9ztdmyeYLQEJs8k4woBpKbM8d-rA/s1600/hummingcc++25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJUYeFCugG_RIr6wqYuSLK6wlITNjsyWdW2CYUveIv9iXxhuSCyPCPw_XPoeO0i7K_3QEFUPeq9_SHRleJetwo01XM76FS5DsUpt7VxhF_lgFqHdS9ztdmyeYLQEJs8k4woBpKbM8d-rA/s640/hummingcc++25.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hummingbird Cupcakes with Pineapple Flowers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Actually, it isn't my recipe at all. It is actually <a href="http://www.sweetapolita.com/">Rosie's</a> recipe. She is one of my biggest inspirations, to be sure. <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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8KlrubhDP60sMH8yjLnvy5ZZp8eaHIZtzMqSOkyHsdDNkZLEX0O_3x89vY66oQr_MQVLlulhYizQf6rNXthjHx3y33y12mYBeaXIkm2gHG5g_OTOnYYoGfha4UDrA-gx9xL4uZKeKeLA/s1600/hummingcc++29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8KlrubhDP60sMH8yjLnvy5ZZp8eaHIZtzMqSOkyHsdDNkZLEX0O_3x89vY66oQr_MQVLlulhYizQf6rNXthjHx3y33y12mYBeaXIkm2gHG5g_OTOnYYoGfha4UDrA-gx9xL4uZKeKeLA/s640/hummingcc++29.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hummingbird Cupcakes with Pineapple Flowers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Hummingbird Cake is very reminiscent of Carrot Cake, in my opinion. Pineapple, banana, pecans, and a touch of cinnamon combine to make this cake incredibly moist, flavorful, and fragrant. Top with Cream Cheese frosting and a sprinkle of cinnamon, and create a rustic and warm treat for what little is left of our winter. <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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp6RMtOOkg91_VO4663Pm2Z7ihb023ORHq02IsaqFuQ-rfW0yMnAddEeBI4eQ6jrA25YDHc3BViEFEBk3eOrnxgYkndsOa4dNBMeymS6VN8gahyphenhyphen43b66AHyI7cOkKZm18h7vNJJKsqfwQ/s1600/hummingcc++30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp6RMtOOkg91_VO4663Pm2Z7ihb023ORHq02IsaqFuQ-rfW0yMnAddEeBI4eQ6jrA25YDHc3BViEFEBk3eOrnxgYkndsOa4dNBMeymS6VN8gahyphenhyphen43b66AHyI7cOkKZm18h7vNJJKsqfwQ/s640/hummingcc++30.jpg" width="638" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hummingbird Cupcakes with Pineapple Flowers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
But of course, what makes this cupcake a showpiece are the pineapple flowers that I placed on top. I discovered these while perusing Martha Stewart's site a year ago or more, and I decided to give them a go. What I discovered is that I really have to like someone to feel an obligation to forge these little beauties, because a toasted pecan works fine for me. <br />
<br />
They are a pain in the... train. <br />
<br />
But if you are (as I am) a glutton for punishment, grab a few pineapples and <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/281566/dried-pineapple-flowers">slice away!</a> I place the flowers in muffin tins while they were still warm in order to set them in more of a floral shape. And they actually do taste really delicious. I must give an additional warning: you need a very sharp knife for this. And no fresh scissor wounds on your knuckles.<br />
<br />
Just saying.<br />
<br />
Love to you all.<br />
<br />
Rachel Bee<br />
<br />
<br />rachel beehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03596528108025086898noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5082514854778837141.post-56211672124260197242012-02-14T04:30:00.001-08:002012-02-14T04:30:32.524-08:00Happy Valentines Day, and I am not yelling!Happy Valentines Day, my friends! <br />
<br />
I hope you all have a sweetheart as kind, warm, loving, handsome, talented, thoughtful, and extra cute as mine! If you are instead celebrating Single Awareness Day, please enjoy it! Don't think of what you would be doing if you were married or dating, but instead think of all the things you can do because you are single!<br />
<br />
So many exclamation points! I am not yelling!<br />
<br />
Ah-hem... I know I promised a post more thought out than yesterday's, but truly: this is not that post. I baked three cakes last night, and I need to frost and deliver them this morning. I frantically dipped these early in the evening, and then I cut the creative process short. No fancy plate, no ribbon, no explanatory set-up; just cake balls. <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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8hy7oYMRBx7zcI-uWWvrYVcUejDgGCjB4uXVlnYqk58R2pyeH4uNnypI19pYtB432xv-R7FKkH-j_tCd_3nQ9DqjnNX4VT-iXMrZs34YUT06sQKzY79beqBVShSYkMO5NtKLAzJvGtYQ/s1600/vdaycb++406.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8hy7oYMRBx7zcI-uWWvrYVcUejDgGCjB4uXVlnYqk58R2pyeH4uNnypI19pYtB432xv-R7FKkH-j_tCd_3nQ9DqjnNX4VT-iXMrZs34YUT06sQKzY79beqBVShSYkMO5NtKLAzJvGtYQ/s640/vdaycb++406.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Strawberry Champagne Cake Balls</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Strawberry Champagne Cake Balls, to be specific. <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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiycLesCX_93EAgfHDZyfAGSUvXMeXFDYXcWtlgiPHZeMwIznvAuyNg4IYfMET99L1gS2on3Bv4tNhktx6HZHcV35JqkeMcPzg0RtuXmSYan9HsVBLmhAG41VGtmmZXTa8EFE_kTk2QXTI/s1600/vdaycb++409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiycLesCX_93EAgfHDZyfAGSUvXMeXFDYXcWtlgiPHZeMwIznvAuyNg4IYfMET99L1gS2on3Bv4tNhktx6HZHcV35JqkeMcPzg0RtuXmSYan9HsVBLmhAG41VGtmmZXTa8EFE_kTk2QXTI/s640/vdaycb++409.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Strawberry Champagne Cake Balls</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
And photographic evidence that I am no good at dipping cake balls. <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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifjy3YvR4qRp1HKKRnKm8q846Q0sSHwAFvU83wZDfA79hnedKTfyaIGLUUxWL-2dW898ZsxsXfJVXfwSvstDrptWoycI5LznsNhI1ty6IDlUoerx1x4CV6Z97sJTf4b_EBIrnj18_AwkA/s1600/vdaycb++407.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifjy3YvR4qRp1HKKRnKm8q846Q0sSHwAFvU83wZDfA79hnedKTfyaIGLUUxWL-2dW898ZsxsXfJVXfwSvstDrptWoycI5LznsNhI1ty6IDlUoerx1x4CV6Z97sJTf4b_EBIrnj18_AwkA/s640/vdaycb++407.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Strawberry Champagne Cake Balls</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
But this is true: they taste delicious.<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzqorS8Qx6IzvT5X0hcntBLGjjEdcNRlIk-mjr4wASoUsy1-96mSvUyXZCyfcOlNNjfW2lk6Z6lABl5MPd2n3pPpbShQTCxP0plGO9I2RT4J5pBsspfFJxBPJ0vm4sSL6FyJsyYC78cyY/s1600/vdaycb++410.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzqorS8Qx6IzvT5X0hcntBLGjjEdcNRlIk-mjr4wASoUsy1-96mSvUyXZCyfcOlNNjfW2lk6Z6lABl5MPd2n3pPpbShQTCxP0plGO9I2RT4J5pBsspfFJxBPJ0vm4sSL6FyJsyYC78cyY/s640/vdaycb++410.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Strawberry Champagne Cake Balls</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
And if I told you my 3 1/2 year-old dipped them, you'd think they were perfect. <br />
<br />
I would give you a recipe, but I think I am going to save it for when I make the Strawberry Champagne Cake again. It was a spectacular cake, to be sure. <br />
<br />
Enjoy your day! God gave you hands to make beautiful things. <br />
<br />
Rachel Bee<br />
<br />rachel beehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03596528108025086898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5082514854778837141.post-39321550252975716042012-02-13T04:14:00.000-08:002012-02-13T04:16:21.574-08:00I'll never be a hand model...Tomorrow I will have a more serious V-day post, but today I give you...<br />
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... evidence that I will never be a hand model. And a Valentines "Dump-Cake."<br />
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I can't really give you a recipe for these, as I made them from leftover <a href="http://beconfectionate.blogspot.com/2011/02/crazy-ol-st-valentine.html">chocolate cupcakes</a>, leftover <a href="http://beconfectionate.blogspot.com/2011/01/cake-for-little-miss-thang.html">chocolate</a> and <a href="http://beconfectionate.blogspot.com/2012/01/over-week-ago-i-promised-cake-recipe.html">coffee frosting</a> (I mixed them together), then I coated them in Girl Scout cookie crumbs that were still in my freezer from last year, and finally filled them with leftover whipped cream from making ganache. I threw it all together and came up with a Valentines Day post, aka Dump-Cakes!<br />
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What are you making this Valentine's Day? I am making quite a few cakes this week, but tomorrow I am making something very sweet for my sweetheart. It is quite a bit more intentional, and completely devoid of pink hearts. OK. Maybe one pink heart. <br />
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Have a lovely day, and I'll see you back here tomorrow.<br />
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Yes, tomorrow. <br />
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Rachel Bee<br />
<br />rachel beehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03596528108025086898noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5082514854778837141.post-2310245540848792272012-01-31T02:52:00.000-08:002012-02-14T13:01:07.526-08:00Unseasonal bread for unseasonal weather...In my corner of the globe, blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries are exceptionally inexpensive right now, as if it was the middle of summer. <i>And </i>considering that Wednesday it is set to be 75 degrees here (@24 for other people around the globe), it sure is feeling a bit like the start of spring!<br />
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Now, my husband and I are about as green as we can possibly be, and I recognize that these berries are pretty tired by the time they get to Georgia. But they are so stinking fragrant, and as I walk by their temporary grocery store homes, I determine that they need to be in muffins, quick bread, and then in my belly (oh, and cherries- is there a "Santiago, SC?).<br />
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So as I couldn't help myself, here is a quick berry bread recipe that is really, very much worth baking. I know, because I have baked it twice. The photo below is Sunday's successful attempt.<br />
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And this happened a month ago...<br />
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I was in a hurry. I tried to dump it out of the pan too early. We ate Starbucks that morning instead. <br />
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The crumbs were delicious.<br />
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Anyway, here it is. Try for yourself:)<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #674ea7;">Mixed Berry Cream Cheese Bread</span><br />
(adapted from My Baking Addiction)<br />
1/2 C unsalted butter, softened<br />
4 oz. cream cheese<br />
1 C sugar<br />
1 t vanilla extract<br />
2 eggs<br />
2 C flour<br />
2 t baking powder<br />
1/2 t baking soda<br />
1/2 t kosher salt<br />
1/2 cup plain yogurt (I used greek)<br />
1.5 cups mixed berries<br />
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Preheat the oven to 350. Prepare a 9x4" loaf pan with butter and flour. If you do not have a 9x4" pan (as I do not), fill the pan to 2/3 full, and then make some muffins with the leftovers.<br />
Cream together the butter, cream cheese, vanilla, and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly between each addition.<br />
In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. Add a third of the dry mixture to the butter mixture, and blend until incorporated. Now, add 1/2 the yogurt, and mix thoroughly (scrape down the bowl between additions). Now add half of what's left of the dry and mix in, then the remaining yogurt. Mix thoroughly and scrape down between additions. Add the remaining dry, and stir to incorporate a few times. Add the berries, and then stir everything together until just mixed. <br />
Pour into prepared pan (or muffin tins), and bake for @50 minutes to an hour. Enjoy warm!<br />
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Have a great day, y'all!<br />
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Rachel Beerachel beehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03596528108025086898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5082514854778837141.post-59226377771911818062012-01-30T04:58:00.000-08:002012-01-30T09:52:10.896-08:00In Memorium Lamingtons...My husband and I did a photo shoot last summer with a very unique couple. She is a client of mine, and he, her quirky husband: an apparent medical marvel as he battled through his second bout of cancer. <br />
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Among all of the things that made him very cool (whip fashioning, boat building, cancer butt kicking, etc.), he was also Australian, and a son to Italian immigrants to that country. Sydney, where a large part of my heart still resides (somewhere on George Street, I believe), was his home town; and in a city like our current one, treats like Tim Tms and Lamingtons brought us together in a special way. <br />
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I speak of him in the past tense as he chose to find rest last week, and I say it that way because that's actually how it happened. As the beast ravaged his body, the man was still in charge; and held onto hope so much longer than anyone expected. <br />
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So when it became time to develop a recipe for Mr. P at <a href="http://deliciousdeliciousdelicious.blogspot.com/">Delicious Delicious Delicious</a> for his annual "Reinventing the Lamington" contest, I thought it appropriate to give the Australian treat an Italian makeover. <br />
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Cue the Lazzaroni...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cannoli Cake</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cannoli Cake</td></tr>
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The Cannoli Lamington!<br />
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Two slices of butter cake are brushed with amaretto, and then sandwich sweet marscapone and ricotta cream that is studded with chocolate chips. I then dipped it in melted bittersweet chocolate, and coated it in toasted almonds. <br />
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Labor intensive, but lovely...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cannoli Cake</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #674ea7;">Cannoli Lamingtons</span><br />
one recipe <a href="http://www.joyofbaking.com/WhiteCake.html">White Butter Cake</a>, baked into a 13x9" pan (do not add the suggested citrus zest)<br />
Amaretto Liqueur<br />
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1 container of Marscapone<br />
1/2 c whole milk ricotta<br />
1.5 cups sifted powdered sugar<br />
1/2 t vanilla extract<br />
pinch of kosher salt<br />
1/2 c mini chocolate chips<br />
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10 oz bittersweet chocolate (for dipping)<br />
*1 c toasted sliced almonds<br />
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Bake and cool your cake. Honestly, You only see two lammingtons because I made mine from a 6" round I had in my freezer lest over from a previous project. <br />
Take a square cookie cutter (or simply slice into squares), and create an even number of level squares. Brush the squares with the amaretto Liqueur and set aside.<br />
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Blend the Marscapone with the ricotta until smooth. Mix in the powdered sugar, salt, and vanilla, and blend until incorporated. Stir in the chocolate chips.<br />
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Spoon an even layer of the cream onto half of the cake squares, and smooth gently (you don't want to agitate too many crumbs). Top with the remaining cake squares, and work to make all sides even. <br />
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Melt the chocolate in a double boiler, and let it cool slightly so that it thickens up some. <br />
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There is no way to do this easily, but spoon, spread, dip, or squeeze the chocolate onto the sandwich, covering all sides (I did not cover the underneath). Coat in the toasted almonds, and place in the fridge to harden and cool. <br />
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*to toast nuts, spread the nuts in an even layer onto a sheet pan, and place in a 350 oven. Bake for 5-8 minutes, or until fragrant and slightly changed in color. <br />
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I hope to make a Cannoli cake soon. <br />
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You will be sorely missed, S. <br />
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Rachel Bee<br />
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<br />rachel beehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03596528108025086898noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5082514854778837141.post-32144727392688245112012-01-26T04:50:00.000-08:002012-01-26T09:10:04.909-08:00A January warm enough...It's January, and it is so very warm. One lady told me yesterday that it is a sign of the end times, but I think it's because Jesus loves the Biestmans; and He knows the Biestmans hate to be cold. <br />
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About a week ago I told you that I had a special shin-dig to attend last weekend, and it was wonderful. I baked 175 cupcakes for the event, and afterward my husband took me to the beautiful Rosemary Inn Bed and Breakfast. The following morning we did a wee photo shoot in and around the inn. I had a little bed-head, but when one is dealing with someone as great as my husband, it really doesn't matter...<br />
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This is from my phone. A third of the way through putting them in their boxes, I thought, "Crap! A picture!"<br />
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And here is cupcake in the candlelight. <br />
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And here I am...<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rosemary Inn Bed and Breakfast</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rosemary Inn Bed and Breakfast</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJMoe0eKsxpy07V4vOacfEiascXC6hbzwDhP6n94qC_nvu_ZIEFN7ksE0Sn5B7SX1t34NXAMsfDD50q_ruwI-Zj326gr4Moy5LekfTmokcUqaBneoSr5uMoFcvQbFC69Tv5kKW-dEIjGY/s1600/Rachel+bs++126.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJMoe0eKsxpy07V4vOacfEiascXC6hbzwDhP6n94qC_nvu_ZIEFN7ksE0Sn5B7SX1t34NXAMsfDD50q_ruwI-Zj326gr4Moy5LekfTmokcUqaBneoSr5uMoFcvQbFC69Tv5kKW-dEIjGY/s640/Rachel+bs++126.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rosemary Inn Bed and Breakfast</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoX0hM2jLXMr0jUfSyMUSigIoE7_yj8R-9X5Hc6ZsaGWStX2A3YP5HSzLkNYll-tDnwrj3egmaoBsS0kXS59uvgbDPqqTe-d-moEUD01D3QWRcA2zDBDd9YGXEdcFGwiyMxe8umdkVgnA/s1600/Rachel+bs++122.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoX0hM2jLXMr0jUfSyMUSigIoE7_yj8R-9X5Hc6ZsaGWStX2A3YP5HSzLkNYll-tDnwrj3egmaoBsS0kXS59uvgbDPqqTe-d-moEUD01D3QWRcA2zDBDd9YGXEdcFGwiyMxe8umdkVgnA/s640/Rachel+bs++122.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rosemary Inn Bed and Breakfast</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjjyI8wAOpANW62-e1DLMPSb-q5Dy0A0FLWssNtKzxtlkH9p85ci7Ox6GTKgdY7s9vgSrXHpyhU5gf-xe4Tv0nzjeIkxuf_olQJ4z2gaFSFt186cozOOVR-XevhRqHnAVkgTyJu0KkLP0/s1600/Rachel+bs++127.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjjyI8wAOpANW62-e1DLMPSb-q5Dy0A0FLWssNtKzxtlkH9p85ci7Ox6GTKgdY7s9vgSrXHpyhU5gf-xe4Tv0nzjeIkxuf_olQJ4z2gaFSFt186cozOOVR-XevhRqHnAVkgTyJu0KkLP0/s640/Rachel+bs++127.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rosemary Inn Bed and Breakfast</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
He is so sweet, and I like him lots. Check his other work out <a href="http://www.acuityphotography.com/#">here.</a><br />
<br />
Have a great day, everyone. <br />
<br />
Rachel Bee.rachel beehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03596528108025086898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5082514854778837141.post-73193379160265505682012-01-19T02:38:00.000-08:002012-01-20T02:38:17.280-08:00Old Hollywood with a smidge of rock n' roll: hair tutorial...Tomorrow is the volunteers' banquet at my church, and I would officially like to add about 8 hours to today. However, since extending hours is not an option, I am up early to bring you another hair tutorial. <br />
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<div>
Last year I brought you <a href="http://beconfectionate.blogspot.com/2011/03/big-show-big-hair-tutorial.html">this</a> perspective on curling hair, and I still stand by it for the most part. I do, however, want to give you a more glamourous option for the evening. </div>
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<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRASpcSHAJBU2t_PyPRm4uxSyJ54H4Rtx9iGoqvxYhUMe4XFI-Uw6iAgHzZWeeQsZ2HT3HsL9FXadP3gxpEivWJkMilCuKqeD09GsIBuEaTq3O6yUyIfIB2nkdLFaML1lfdbgB_l8PnbY/s1600/hollywood++102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRASpcSHAJBU2t_PyPRm4uxSyJ54H4Rtx9iGoqvxYhUMe4XFI-Uw6iAgHzZWeeQsZ2HT3HsL9FXadP3gxpEivWJkMilCuKqeD09GsIBuEaTq3O6yUyIfIB2nkdLFaML1lfdbgB_l8PnbY/s640/hollywood++102.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Hollywood Hair Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is my modern take on an old Hollywood style: a ton of glamour, and a little rock and roll. </div>
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Lets get started!</div>
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Start off with freshly blown out hair, prepped with volumizing mousse or spray. Dry with a wide side part.</div>
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<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUTqhCPXJX6QKjw9zyhSUXV5wHCVrJ24aZfYLbuw5WbkcSrDD81IKziSPpZMpLaJ7vJuKdnIeYqMi7j8ZifPB7UCeCM9NAmoB2zkPg3fteQSLy5V6MpGmWuBKfwroQV6ng0tKvDFdoSdk/s1600/hollywood++70.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUTqhCPXJX6QKjw9zyhSUXV5wHCVrJ24aZfYLbuw5WbkcSrDD81IKziSPpZMpLaJ7vJuKdnIeYqMi7j8ZifPB7UCeCM9NAmoB2zkPg3fteQSLy5V6MpGmWuBKfwroQV6ng0tKvDFdoSdk/s640/hollywood++70.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Hollywood Hair Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div>
Part off your fringe area at an angle, and pull it down toward your face.</div>
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<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicCxhcQacZkO6e4YIGTBR-Fg3eOijNd2IwrdIztaVBGj89vCl_UdZ_t45VJh_wg3QGRtJnPfgB5dsUTdn_CTmk9jURsZAV8MW_Awis7Ks860jJIDi7jExjEBrIJrUlkqjNW5zT9uL2qN8/s1600/hollywood++71.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicCxhcQacZkO6e4YIGTBR-Fg3eOijNd2IwrdIztaVBGj89vCl_UdZ_t45VJh_wg3QGRtJnPfgB5dsUTdn_CTmk9jURsZAV8MW_Awis7Ks860jJIDi7jExjEBrIJrUlkqjNW5zT9uL2qN8/s640/hollywood++71.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Hollywood Hair Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div>
At 0 degrees (do not lift your hair up! You don't want volume in the fringe), curl your hair halfway up the hair shaft, and pin in place.</div>
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<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwZ2Ieww5siiIHESeG9VTC7QXJ-QeToRoAfls4jMGtRfgHqnaqGl0XKKA2nd34SLRyABxyTL-H-7a1H0HeFWhwB3qS7c0qkMWDbgyFOtGFma9bABSJBUrh3DkYNx-iu5mGQOgsBSvP0CQ/s1600/hollywood++72.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwZ2Ieww5siiIHESeG9VTC7QXJ-QeToRoAfls4jMGtRfgHqnaqGl0XKKA2nd34SLRyABxyTL-H-7a1H0HeFWhwB3qS7c0qkMWDbgyFOtGFma9bABSJBUrh3DkYNx-iu5mGQOgsBSvP0CQ/s640/hollywood++72.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Hollywood Hair Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHmNSniB-t5BTuy6VsXPwYznKo4rR-DI_aRwAlSvDyEck6gDizf0I2TeelV8Q6kNUhKxIRWH-QrLRIGijCA9P2Ia27QZ6jajDEPDGvyhz71F2glvzd5rndsAMaZhuKVTy-slURIiqZaaY/s1600/hollywood++73.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHmNSniB-t5BTuy6VsXPwYznKo4rR-DI_aRwAlSvDyEck6gDizf0I2TeelV8Q6kNUhKxIRWH-QrLRIGijCA9P2Ia27QZ6jajDEPDGvyhz71F2glvzd5rndsAMaZhuKVTy-slURIiqZaaY/s640/hollywood++73.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Hollywood Hair Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-oNQReMBQCZqvgnvVa1j0ozU9i3t3zooSGmryoQXMS1kYRkhsI0EZOYsUFCNrUyLafEdouDv6gX74LsnSUUSvumHkqRG8vdIAHNUvZhOr89fCCACYKiYCov5WrGhzF159BG0eV_ZMeIg/s1600/hollywood++74.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-oNQReMBQCZqvgnvVa1j0ozU9i3t3zooSGmryoQXMS1kYRkhsI0EZOYsUFCNrUyLafEdouDv6gX74LsnSUUSvumHkqRG8vdIAHNUvZhOr89fCCACYKiYCov5WrGhzF159BG0eV_ZMeIg/s640/hollywood++74.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Hollywood Hair Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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You can get a big box of these clips at Sally's for not very much at all. </div>
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Do the section behind in the same fashion. </div>
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<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA260A7osM2voFGowjOZ-XoXpHflh7u8Z7MUB3QY-bcycfxGWbunMT1o9If-EDZtNBn-V698QyPTc_LEJJufp0sNWXayHce3zYFODad6UMIS4xlIjAtZYLSnK18r2AebOt8ff1H69_WFM/s1600/hollywood++75.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA260A7osM2voFGowjOZ-XoXpHflh7u8Z7MUB3QY-bcycfxGWbunMT1o9If-EDZtNBn-V698QyPTc_LEJJufp0sNWXayHce3zYFODad6UMIS4xlIjAtZYLSnK18r2AebOt8ff1H69_WFM/s640/hollywood++75.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Hollywood hair Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtBmlug_SpHJHcotPyBW3jhZMqK3pq_sxRcAcqLYEvKuLN_e19p0ZvD2_GHoSWSe2QesglYmrdwvqbYhJd_qmJ97BfW3RObl46gyEXQzDXaUgZe81rZ3hSyzIn5gJpAcaR7gaoCrfa9gA/s1600/hollywood++86.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtBmlug_SpHJHcotPyBW3jhZMqK3pq_sxRcAcqLYEvKuLN_e19p0ZvD2_GHoSWSe2QesglYmrdwvqbYhJd_qmJ97BfW3RObl46gyEXQzDXaUgZe81rZ3hSyzIn5gJpAcaR7gaoCrfa9gA/s640/hollywood++86.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Hollywood Hair Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div>
Start on the other side, angling toward your face. </div>
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<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik6V7PQNddV3OSceQsRjQ_PFYs_SNe8VvlJrJW_xmNzk0hGwJ8BSpKyM_-oqlBrFwO0czbaWcNkwRfSOOyvI4ai5NMBKLtk5kZixp_DpWMJbiZ5VUPMsD6QRzJfghwEhA8KARQ9Eao8EU/s1600/hollywood++87.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik6V7PQNddV3OSceQsRjQ_PFYs_SNe8VvlJrJW_xmNzk0hGwJ8BSpKyM_-oqlBrFwO0czbaWcNkwRfSOOyvI4ai5NMBKLtk5kZixp_DpWMJbiZ5VUPMsD6QRzJfghwEhA8KARQ9Eao8EU/s640/hollywood++87.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Hollywood Hair Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEmdGFFAO-CLA3U6Pem9RN3CSEX_kq7SL6IRq2LmkTGW9WnmScMTBSHzTyC1ItKPPQ9v9rvp3-kSn2qQSeqGCsGYb06Tik3uNIlScGvo6oUdVP-jsFKy6dOx1Bizn83nHwp7WmtRQkePs/s1600/hollywood++88.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEmdGFFAO-CLA3U6Pem9RN3CSEX_kq7SL6IRq2LmkTGW9WnmScMTBSHzTyC1ItKPPQ9v9rvp3-kSn2qQSeqGCsGYb06Tik3uNIlScGvo6oUdVP-jsFKy6dOx1Bizn83nHwp7WmtRQkePs/s640/hollywood++88.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Hollywood Hair Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div>
And continue around the sides...</div>
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<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSxBkRWCXFUdZzpPymE6qFa0j6kBHxwfw47QqZLRQUrUD5KK7MDXSzXJeb1xOUVgK4CmC_UZcgahpRz06Ta2wTJzC7vTMxJDdiAQBclCvmmlqo3w6rlfaL_E7zCbZ8SNIuP77nMYUe2e0/s1600/hollywood++89.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSxBkRWCXFUdZzpPymE6qFa0j6kBHxwfw47QqZLRQUrUD5KK7MDXSzXJeb1xOUVgK4CmC_UZcgahpRz06Ta2wTJzC7vTMxJDdiAQBclCvmmlqo3w6rlfaL_E7zCbZ8SNIuP77nMYUe2e0/s640/hollywood++89.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Hollywood Hair Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm999VTU6A1izBV1ic25OqRyrNvr0gZZkwp2ceiChr2S5rdr4NpCxtf4JXCt7CM3yv_6ns1Zq09KzeSNUdUY-xoAGKzmq0tzpKvwyGCZQQWLVgS3MziQfhAi-vm20IKA0WmafJFXb3m1U/s1600/hollywood++90.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm999VTU6A1izBV1ic25OqRyrNvr0gZZkwp2ceiChr2S5rdr4NpCxtf4JXCt7CM3yv_6ns1Zq09KzeSNUdUY-xoAGKzmq0tzpKvwyGCZQQWLVgS3MziQfhAi-vm20IKA0WmafJFXb3m1U/s640/hollywood++90.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Hollywood Hair Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiXAHU1RDfJVXc9kDcZxe-ts4Cy_SE-15IX3jNre6_DMpOTvGx98eW3Ik8CFMVFyhIUE8VGN945qFR0pVxwVJYQNiUVXVlct9UJGWrrRnpYUE8AVpdl3M-ZRRazLaq6A-1_FZCjLHyGb8/s1600/hollywood++91.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiXAHU1RDfJVXc9kDcZxe-ts4Cy_SE-15IX3jNre6_DMpOTvGx98eW3Ik8CFMVFyhIUE8VGN945qFR0pVxwVJYQNiUVXVlct9UJGWrrRnpYUE8AVpdl3M-ZRRazLaq6A-1_FZCjLHyGb8/s640/hollywood++91.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Hollywood Hair Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
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<div>
Here, I have wrapped the hair around, and as I feed it through to be curled, I have the piece that I am feeding through on the bottom of the iron.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyk_KraVlwdJ_1qvHXUyA7JRXEiYU0L-K5WMhzph0vpo_EJVLVVbKyFmKq0Nr3hcTfCs3NGBwhmJGNLiI7zAnssMzaf8F66NMQvwZKVyoSaJsBqglEs_f7veyKAqWEEUeQnp427oKo1Mo/s1600/hollywood++100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyk_KraVlwdJ_1qvHXUyA7JRXEiYU0L-K5WMhzph0vpo_EJVLVVbKyFmKq0Nr3hcTfCs3NGBwhmJGNLiI7zAnssMzaf8F66NMQvwZKVyoSaJsBqglEs_f7veyKAqWEEUeQnp427oKo1Mo/s640/hollywood++100.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Hollywood Hair Tutorial</td></tr>
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And I am doing the same thing on the other side. Do not feed it through on the top. </div>
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Continue curling and pinning all the way around, but curl horizontally through the back. Curl and pin until you look awesome, something like this...</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKzMNhsn2z_iltuFj-ycfrTdXCH58_0M2Qb6sx6TYm79_qCSxN76AkR9Y4x9XLQ4e8073rvgQ5NwRtsdasvwL77XC0Xj4EcC4ygw_uK4V2afWSpRPsVok7aJtWeyq6Z3Ij-P6Ywf6FdDQ/s1600/hollywood++101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKzMNhsn2z_iltuFj-ycfrTdXCH58_0M2Qb6sx6TYm79_qCSxN76AkR9Y4x9XLQ4e8073rvgQ5NwRtsdasvwL77XC0Xj4EcC4ygw_uK4V2afWSpRPsVok7aJtWeyq6Z3Ij-P6Ywf6FdDQ/s640/hollywood++101.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Hollywood Hair Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Keep your hair in the pins until the hair is completely cool to the touch. Then pull out your pins, starting from the bottom. You should reveal something like this...</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjulbCPSMpOeQ2ke7-tLvdZ96afy5WwxtDzJ6_adQ9cHq77rGulQ53E2U46a0kr7UUWyERIWi3j5M9RB5kKP7ustGGCRoVAnwFlvdIuyKnh3zRhpOZHkpqfvvwTPAc1xo_ZXelzfp3NDko/s1600/hollywood++78.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjulbCPSMpOeQ2ke7-tLvdZ96afy5WwxtDzJ6_adQ9cHq77rGulQ53E2U46a0kr7UUWyERIWi3j5M9RB5kKP7ustGGCRoVAnwFlvdIuyKnh3zRhpOZHkpqfvvwTPAc1xo_ZXelzfp3NDko/s640/hollywood++78.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Hollywood Hair Tutorial</td></tr>
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Now, brush through all of your curls, repeatedly. You will not ruin them if you began with clean hair.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilT9a1AyWTGLr2Fd9Oz_BP5G2QZbJ-aKDB1EXqwxL1BJNMMAZp8hXQ0Hpf-_Uu6bvg3cbmuhnrVhlzBKI02JVhqSfxpZfH-Z0L83FJp5iqgq1nWO4Fa4G2yXvTcW5wNcCYCusd5gE-h10/s1600/hollywood++80.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilT9a1AyWTGLr2Fd9Oz_BP5G2QZbJ-aKDB1EXqwxL1BJNMMAZp8hXQ0Hpf-_Uu6bvg3cbmuhnrVhlzBKI02JVhqSfxpZfH-Z0L83FJp5iqgq1nWO4Fa4G2yXvTcW5wNcCYCusd5gE-h10/s640/hollywood++80.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Hollywood Hair Tutorial</td></tr>
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You are trying to form the curls together, giving them one, seamless line of curl. </div>
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At the to of your hair shaft, push your hair up with your palm to form waves. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_MndYf6CtNxPsl6O1NhZDxoAzPTpURTd2bpujgZmZQfoP_X7xOYzb7duxnwCl9oOyZx7IF-QcrEYiNb-Mbdd6r5UlyZDOvZuU1LgG_K_WOXmxXlekKP4XUDXgylRAAJTkQQvIGl85TXI/s1600/hollywood++81.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_MndYf6CtNxPsl6O1NhZDxoAzPTpURTd2bpujgZmZQfoP_X7xOYzb7duxnwCl9oOyZx7IF-QcrEYiNb-Mbdd6r5UlyZDOvZuU1LgG_K_WOXmxXlekKP4XUDXgylRAAJTkQQvIGl85TXI/s640/hollywood++81.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Hollywood Hair Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Even pick up a section of hair at the top (if your hair is layered), and brush it together for more waves at the top. </div>
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The end result should be this...</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuygTmp6QANvkpuLHLKoQqwgI10zocELRd5Q-1eGh7sC1POvdpzw2wpBYMOz3AODcZD7EId2jD5RbfyEjcE-rq3IuEous0sxjX2MwRbWouMcgqYFbZs0UX0APu7yMcNWfZ6Ool6mWYyIw/s1600/hollywood++83.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuygTmp6QANvkpuLHLKoQqwgI10zocELRd5Q-1eGh7sC1POvdpzw2wpBYMOz3AODcZD7EId2jD5RbfyEjcE-rq3IuEous0sxjX2MwRbWouMcgqYFbZs0UX0APu7yMcNWfZ6Ool6mWYyIw/s640/hollywood++83.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Hollywood Hair Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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We could leave it here, but a southern girl needs some volume. </div>
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Take your fingers and rake through your perfect coif. Push it up...</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQb68S-lPZlEEuP8IbnvYByKjDOyLAv24WygP6ZeTifGzyraN5okMqADm7JJucllT28NP3xR545V19s9huzJFFg0_aiBkXAkgWAQynF_m6335Z8v6QzOphsYzC786UIHlFAPPUh5auwG0/s1600/hollywood++103.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQb68S-lPZlEEuP8IbnvYByKjDOyLAv24WygP6ZeTifGzyraN5okMqADm7JJucllT28NP3xR545V19s9huzJFFg0_aiBkXAkgWAQynF_m6335Z8v6QzOphsYzC786UIHlFAPPUh5auwG0/s640/hollywood++103.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Hollywood Hair Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div>
... and really get your hands in there. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRASpcSHAJBU2t_PyPRm4uxSyJ54H4Rtx9iGoqvxYhUMe4XFI-Uw6iAgHzZWeeQsZ2HT3HsL9FXadP3gxpEivWJkMilCuKqeD09GsIBuEaTq3O6yUyIfIB2nkdLFaML1lfdbgB_l8PnbY/s1600/hollywood++102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRASpcSHAJBU2t_PyPRm4uxSyJ54H4Rtx9iGoqvxYhUMe4XFI-Uw6iAgHzZWeeQsZ2HT3HsL9FXadP3gxpEivWJkMilCuKqeD09GsIBuEaTq3O6yUyIfIB2nkdLFaML1lfdbgB_l8PnbY/s640/hollywood++102.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Hollywood Hair Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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And done! I hope you enjoy playing with this one! </div>
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Have a great day, and I'll see you on the other side. </div>
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Rachel Bee</div>rachel beehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03596528108025086898noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5082514854778837141.post-48141287701262405722012-01-16T05:35:00.000-08:002012-01-20T02:41:57.900-08:00Ballerina Bun How to...A year ago I saw this picture...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3S9siU5n7Fh_-1OEbCNip9dBQr5CXNGw6VoUd35jaANAX8wAqZIypEvePw-p24s279vsf22TtFooal5xH3nBDJDPs9h9TsuCj9Idq_XLYUrD1pYZFdORueroORhSngf-41ZDR2erNtrk/s1600/118712140147317611_fKzy7rSt_b-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3S9siU5n7Fh_-1OEbCNip9dBQr5CXNGw6VoUd35jaANAX8wAqZIypEvePw-p24s279vsf22TtFooal5xH3nBDJDPs9h9TsuCj9Idq_XLYUrD1pYZFdORueroORhSngf-41ZDR2erNtrk/s400/118712140147317611_fKzy7rSt_b-1.jpg" width="287" /></a></div>
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... and I have been in love with the style ever since. <br />
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Before you attempt the style, you must have moderately long hair, and a hairline that is moderately straight. This style is very dramatic, but classically feminine. If you have the length for it, I suggest you try it! Besides, it is super easy. <br />
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Start with hair that has been shampooed in the last 24 hours, and prepped with mousse or styling spray. I really recommend that you do not do this on very dirty hair, as you will be doing a lot of work to brush it up- distributing the surface oils on your scalp. <br />
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Start by brushing your hair in every direction, eventually up into a pony tail at the highest point of your head. Although it's popular, I do not recommend a knot on the top of your head. It is a bit too avant garde for Augusta, GA. <br />
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<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicMqmFusbmJ1VcD-GAPgwJlLIUswvkh_aPujEOy0z6sVzJWJVNVdwY8QGZfY7DE9hOTmK4T1aqjC1T-ccqVR65S0psnpYNuIogrFQ5VlfdcgVwSJfrsUQhqjP55ymN3Y8Kh7ehvXqEKQ8/s1600/ballerina+bun++7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicMqmFusbmJ1VcD-GAPgwJlLIUswvkh_aPujEOy0z6sVzJWJVNVdwY8QGZfY7DE9hOTmK4T1aqjC1T-ccqVR65S0psnpYNuIogrFQ5VlfdcgVwSJfrsUQhqjP55ymN3Y8Kh7ehvXqEKQ8/s640/ballerina+bun++7.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ballerina Bun Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdYNJEdqcFx4164LVAqbmh323PWNWfSB3cDxxsTODTmTUKaS2wt3WR5GoxKqFw0UyQgJt95cmECQCvPJr5fYzk22zYo9rWVgy-WBzSQhnKPmyWRjPKJ5GLJ8T-xeqQSFut9RJ4e1RtsNw/s1600/ballerina+bun++8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdYNJEdqcFx4164LVAqbmh323PWNWfSB3cDxxsTODTmTUKaS2wt3WR5GoxKqFw0UyQgJt95cmECQCvPJr5fYzk22zYo9rWVgy-WBzSQhnKPmyWRjPKJ5GLJ8T-xeqQSFut9RJ4e1RtsNw/s640/ballerina+bun++8.jpg" width="456" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ballerina Bun Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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If you tilt your head up as you are forming a pony tail, it will not sag at the base of your neck.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-6NSfMh5iNAq_Tf6GXdodlS3391Joz93skpR5voH_vuVOHe2ySWywiBYzYlrRUVuEmfOKTUODJIBoorjfaETaZrDDOM5Ugbr7IeglY9mJqresLnBAsVaSHBzfdE3XhM7exDo-P4RCOBU/s1600/ballerina+bun++9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-6NSfMh5iNAq_Tf6GXdodlS3391Joz93skpR5voH_vuVOHe2ySWywiBYzYlrRUVuEmfOKTUODJIBoorjfaETaZrDDOM5Ugbr7IeglY9mJqresLnBAsVaSHBzfdE3XhM7exDo-P4RCOBU/s640/ballerina+bun++9.jpg" width="456" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top Knot Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Work as hard as you can to pull your hair smooth across your scalp. Form your pony tail, and use an elastic to secure. Very important: ALWAYS work with a hand mirror to check out the back and sides when you are doing your own hair. <br />
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Now, using a teasing comb, back-comb your hair to oblivion.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9YSCFI9xTUqEpKtUSKk9tu-OZL_WSkiPi6i4KhV8CkVs5zvH1XTr6-_tZyR4Xdru8NIiX99H7lc2Soim51r2VQeE9Y2gWOkyV_fVFL9uJncxgxwoOW5TASi0gtxiziOi6ZrEJvmI1ZxY/s1600/ballerina+bun++12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9YSCFI9xTUqEpKtUSKk9tu-OZL_WSkiPi6i4KhV8CkVs5zvH1XTr6-_tZyR4Xdru8NIiX99H7lc2Soim51r2VQeE9Y2gWOkyV_fVFL9uJncxgxwoOW5TASi0gtxiziOi6ZrEJvmI1ZxY/s640/ballerina+bun++12.jpg" width="456" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top Knot Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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That's right. Hold your ponytail up, and using an up and down motion with your teasing comb, get it up, up, up there!<br />
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Now, place your index finger in the middle of that mess, all the way to the center of the elastic. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie6Jz31D27fYbr-BCwtHQlcDmZsS3jloGMRzHufA53NdsM2EiLXDO3wIuHboNONqpSNVm5b9w0BCJ6pfILBHDZMkoY2i5YzuRWKT6PWzY0Ue8iPcp8dfAoZ1VyGegtVv-kA6rECBCDknE/s1600/ballerina+bun++13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie6Jz31D27fYbr-BCwtHQlcDmZsS3jloGMRzHufA53NdsM2EiLXDO3wIuHboNONqpSNVm5b9w0BCJ6pfILBHDZMkoY2i5YzuRWKT6PWzY0Ue8iPcp8dfAoZ1VyGegtVv-kA6rECBCDknE/s640/ballerina+bun++13.jpg" width="456" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ballerina Bun Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Begin to comb and fold the hair around, in one direction. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh8OalwEFqUQX39051OtY-t3P-kJBp7o-zKSuk7L1U3NjTXjRnMyeGO6N-9uyKKzZrLb2vkA_6qEAMCTjEhU7yy6DpQ-xS3E65q-x7AC_tVZQNPz_16SnSnixxgyG691G8c9hl8f36OvQ/s1600/ballerina+bun++15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh8OalwEFqUQX39051OtY-t3P-kJBp7o-zKSuk7L1U3NjTXjRnMyeGO6N-9uyKKzZrLb2vkA_6qEAMCTjEhU7yy6DpQ-xS3E65q-x7AC_tVZQNPz_16SnSnixxgyG691G8c9hl8f36OvQ/s640/ballerina+bun++15.jpg" width="456" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ballerina Bun Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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When you are satisfied with how a section looks, run a slightly open bobby pin across the surface of the bun (barely skimming the surface of the bottom inch of the bun), and once the open part of the pin hits your scalp, fold it over and push it under the bun. <br />
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<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsYKUmoFTKEkosM5ZAKSbXoiDXOJHKwl3dcAnr4NYHwwhs9gHaMxS_ShQo9T22-1aQ7RSUm3gtUwM9S3g9VtRSxUVVg77JMgOsKII_DctU7LlORWvvVsMshFHFB30hsrKNQqp53NK0w3g/s1600/ballerina+bun++16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsYKUmoFTKEkosM5ZAKSbXoiDXOJHKwl3dcAnr4NYHwwhs9gHaMxS_ShQo9T22-1aQ7RSUm3gtUwM9S3g9VtRSxUVVg77JMgOsKII_DctU7LlORWvvVsMshFHFB30hsrKNQqp53NK0w3g/s640/ballerina+bun++16.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top Knot Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Continue to work your way around until you are satisfied, re-teasing if needed, and do not over-pin. This style may require 5 bobby pins, really. <br />
<br />
Now, to finish- use a very, very good hairspray, and spray it in the direction of the bun. Wait for 5 seconds, and use your hands to smooth in the direction of the bun. Continue and do the back and sides of your hair. <br />
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<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRPUxWMEWrBsc1kaSrhQC2TqQEUoKq84AWhyphenhyphenLk35EQ1j9EitNx5tlyR95O2RxE8KcUV0usa8pz1BkmvfbIabbCJffj9_aTlUHuvbi5rnWuzfdTbT0w2hyphenhyphenuL80xNwz2UL6FlYV6ZdZSA24/s1600/ballerina+bun++18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRPUxWMEWrBsc1kaSrhQC2TqQEUoKq84AWhyphenhyphenLk35EQ1j9EitNx5tlyR95O2RxE8KcUV0usa8pz1BkmvfbIabbCJffj9_aTlUHuvbi5rnWuzfdTbT0w2hyphenhyphenuL80xNwz2UL6FlYV6ZdZSA24/s640/ballerina+bun++18.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ballerina Bun Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCawiStdNSi5l4rN_s2y5947g6-p0yWyjB4_VaiKBTjIoH0rgR8XwK5ZEpNR2V0N9yKFskC-GcL7nVUu_kLTwCMCyIS1gkR-l5hNzlksr0LAO9ZQ7ZoYQTBp7cZhjSYQrYFtwlgRlY9r8/s1600/ballerina+bun++22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCawiStdNSi5l4rN_s2y5947g6-p0yWyjB4_VaiKBTjIoH0rgR8XwK5ZEpNR2V0N9yKFskC-GcL7nVUu_kLTwCMCyIS1gkR-l5hNzlksr0LAO9ZQ7ZoYQTBp7cZhjSYQrYFtwlgRlY9r8/s640/ballerina+bun++22.jpg" width="456" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ballerina Bun Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Aw, look at me! Dangly earrings at all!<br />
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<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5g489bhMbhnWL7oGfKkNlzZchoT5g1fs-5-OghulzGC_WQTeQPUsCM7IOt_AaqaXo-IhJ_jtfpmetz0Bt_QBxVt6lZaVa8Fc4SUy7fPoX0WTdO-TM7LmskPUNKVWBO_2Qc5gUQKgChJQ/s1600/ballerina+bun++23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5g489bhMbhnWL7oGfKkNlzZchoT5g1fs-5-OghulzGC_WQTeQPUsCM7IOt_AaqaXo-IhJ_jtfpmetz0Bt_QBxVt6lZaVa8Fc4SUy7fPoX0WTdO-TM7LmskPUNKVWBO_2Qc5gUQKgChJQ/s640/ballerina+bun++23.jpg" width="456" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ballerina But Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNQmR1-sWPQE74fS0KuhMFhc259TMhL04xR1yZCEc6gyEClQhDW18KMu4RkKUazrmwqgdVGwjilTbRNO1lzaa8mtcb_qn2lOQ0Lx6luY74zCfd3fIKO7nC3KZmi4pb6RYuCPZmXprfTh4/s1600/ballerina+bun++25.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNQmR1-sWPQE74fS0KuhMFhc259TMhL04xR1yZCEc6gyEClQhDW18KMu4RkKUazrmwqgdVGwjilTbRNO1lzaa8mtcb_qn2lOQ0Lx6luY74zCfd3fIKO7nC3KZmi4pb6RYuCPZmXprfTh4/s640/ballerina+bun++25.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ballerina Ballerina Bun Tutorial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This is what the top of it looks like. Not perfectly symmetrical, but more than satisfactory. <br />
<br />
Now, for everyday wear, rub your hands back and forth over the surface of your hair to rough it up a little. <br />
<br />
Or to look like an old schoolmarm/hipster, add some glasses and an old scarf...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjAC5xpxROOQFJj3x9oFtlvBW9jthkmpUybC8m__SriEXaJS23wtjCjl55x5g198Vc6M_w7fVzGlDq0HkHJ1RNpZP5hfdrRFf1pV7I3RV9saFCAx0tHwhutB-LrHsBxyEGUH5Cj1PudRI/s1600/ballerina+bun++26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjAC5xpxROOQFJj3x9oFtlvBW9jthkmpUybC8m__SriEXaJS23wtjCjl55x5g198Vc6M_w7fVzGlDq0HkHJ1RNpZP5hfdrRFf1pV7I3RV9saFCAx0tHwhutB-LrHsBxyEGUH5Cj1PudRI/s640/ballerina+bun++26.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
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Have a great day!<br />
<br />
Rachel Beerachel beehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03596528108025086898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5082514854778837141.post-79346314811438868442012-01-13T03:08:00.000-08:002012-01-13T03:11:27.274-08:00Toffee Coffee Cake Recipe...Over a week ago I promised a cake recipe, and I am here to fulfil my promise!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipVQYH1Hj7x_8V-g0E48skzWaTWPstpHQkVQq4He5as-ZuzfGWV-UVTUFqkTxZE9PEKJ7xOjVPNhrajZ3YrAMCr5ZZ0kaVIUJ7pwRm77DwYa5_gpBCwWZymyjEzqvT9bPHGBCkXpDI_vE/s1600/toffee+coffee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipVQYH1Hj7x_8V-g0E48skzWaTWPstpHQkVQq4He5as-ZuzfGWV-UVTUFqkTxZE9PEKJ7xOjVPNhrajZ3YrAMCr5ZZ0kaVIUJ7pwRm77DwYa5_gpBCwWZymyjEzqvT9bPHGBCkXpDI_vE/s640/toffee+coffee.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
Even if quite a bit late...<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #674ea7;">Toffee Coffee Cake</span><br />
(makes one 9" layer cake)<br />
<br />
White Butter Cake (slightly adapted from <a href="http://www.joyofbaking.com/">Joy of Baking</a>)<br />
2 sticks unsalted butter, softened<br />
2 cups sugar, divided<br />
2 t vanilla extract<br />
4 eggs, separated and room temperature<br />
.5 t cream of tartar<br />
3.5 cups cake flour<br />
4 t baking powder<br />
3/4 t Kosher salt<br />
1 cup whole milk, room temperature<br />
<br />
Cream the butter together with 1.5 cups of sugar and vanilla extract until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolks, one at a time and beat until blended after each addition. Set aside. <br />
<br />
In another bowl, perfectly free from grease (use a paper towel coated in vinegar to wipe it down if you are unsure), add the egg whites, and beat on high until foamy. Sprinkle in the cream of tartar, and then continue to beat until soft peaks form. Gradually add the remaining sugar, until a stiff meringue is present. Set to the side.<br />
<br />
Mix the remaining dry ingredients into a bowl and whisk together. Add a third of the flour mixture to the original butter/egg mixture, and mix until incorporated. Scrape down the bowl and add 1/2 of the milk, gradually. Mix until incorporated. Continue alternating flour and milk, ending with the flour mixture. <br />
<br />
Fold in the meringue to the batter, spread into 2 buttered and floured 9" pans, and bake in a preheated oven for @30 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven, and place on a baking sheet to cool for ten minutes. Remove from the pans, and let cool completely before frosting. <br />
<br />
Whipped Coffee Cream Cheese Frosting<br />
2 sticks unsalted butter, softened<br />
1 block brand name cream cheese<br />
3.5 cups powdered sugar, sifted<br />
1.5 packets of Via (Starbucks brand instant coffee), columbia<br />
1 t vanilla extract<br />
pinch of Kosher salt<br />
<br />
In a large bowl, cream the butter and cream cheese together. Add the powdered sugar and mix until incorporated. Add the Via, vanilla, and salt, and beat for 3-5 minutes, scraping down the bowl as needed. <br />
<br />
1 recipe <a href="http://www.asweetpeachef.com/sweets/how-to-make-toffee/">Toffee</a>.<br />
<br />
How to assemble:<br />
<br />
Fill and frost the cake. Break up the toffee into small pieces and coat the outside of the cake. <br />
<br />
Enjoy!<br />
<br />
Rachel Bee<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />rachel beehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03596528108025086898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5082514854778837141.post-45830773918321990042012-01-11T18:39:00.000-08:002012-01-11T18:41:33.385-08:00Choosing a part: your best you!Apparently some of you were let down that something worse didn't happen as a result of yesterday's story, and I am sorry. But standing there looking something like this...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi705rlXRiJg3U3fZhoBq8liZxMxWpRky16-uAd0g1r7s_gK-7mJmqWRa_PMLdI2tz-MXUTnogCzbi7ggruUQ-nWihap06KRkdM4FoQJWTdPJl4Nd8aQVBG53T2tojhNdutKL6SGiG5VlM/s1600/drew-barrymore-golden-globes-06--large-msg-113760413415-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi705rlXRiJg3U3fZhoBq8liZxMxWpRky16-uAd0g1r7s_gK-7mJmqWRa_PMLdI2tz-MXUTnogCzbi7ggruUQ-nWihap06KRkdM4FoQJWTdPJl4Nd8aQVBG53T2tojhNdutKL6SGiG5VlM/s320/drew-barrymore-golden-globes-06--large-msg-113760413415-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
is mortifying enough. May it never be done again, as Drew and I have both learned our lessons. <br />
<br />
Amen. <br />
<br />
So anyway, I would like to take a moment to talk about formal styles. For brides, it is common place to choose by the rear and profile appearances, but when you are in a sea of black dresses, I believe one should focus on the front. And that's why I want to talk about your best "you."<br />
<br />
Your part. <br />
<br />
I believe that hairstylists aren't bold enough to talk with their clients about their part lines, ie where your hair falls around your face. There are a few factors to consider when you choose your part.<br />
<br />
1. Cowlicks. Yes, that's spelled "cow-lick," as if a cow came up to you and licked the front of your head, creating a non-negotiable seam at your forehead. Some people have stubborn, outrageous cowlicks, and unfortunately mother nature has chosen their part line. Some have only mild cowlicks which are easily negotiated. <br />
<br />
2. Thickness. Some people have very thin hair on one side of their heads. It is common place to make a very deep side part, and pull over all of the hair from the top of the head to compensate for what is missing on that side. I believe this is perfectly acceptable, and encourage it at times. <br />
<br />
3. Trend. I love trend. I was the second stylist in Augusta to jump on the "Featherlock" bandwagon, and I am sporting the ombre hair color as we speak. I love trend when it comes to parts as well, as long as beauty is a consideration. A few years ago it was a trend among young people to start a "side part" two inches down one side of a head and pull it all the way down to the other side, leaving nothing but a few lonely strands dripping down her opposite shoulder. It came out of nowhere, and it was hideous. A deep side part, or a center part are both very trendy, and beautiful for some people. <br />
<br />
Outside of that, the part is a great way to change a look almost completely, without permanent change. I encourage you to grab a friend, and try a little experiment. <br />
<br />
Start with your normal part, and share with a confidante. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrK4Cnl8408vpjnZSH8xTqClkq-WyvBrt2YA60mOssG-14YJ07nfPbtnIfjAFqIdQcioQfWZAAdqXwrORLlE-EFWiu2__cgYO8njiPgjwsdawn5klVgAmUn1Bqof9n_6Gk3DxyLUcFa54/s1600/my+part++220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrK4Cnl8408vpjnZSH8xTqClkq-WyvBrt2YA60mOssG-14YJ07nfPbtnIfjAFqIdQcioQfWZAAdqXwrORLlE-EFWiu2__cgYO8njiPgjwsdawn5klVgAmUn1Bqof9n_6Gk3DxyLUcFa54/s640/my+part++220.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Mine is no different than most: to the side, just off center. I am growing out a massive fringe, so my bang-area can look strange at times, but this is a pretty average hair day.<br />
<br />
And now, a deep side part.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwxVYtOigppQIJXdbqpwROb_4Trmql_UAbeacm5M51VkaKBfDoGkmhjIo-aWkKeWvtWbNtAfcFC8J0nG_lHW-9oy0qLlwPL8jEIQ_8yXgNbvdTuVaFzbFTABZkJXlBwZ2v1FvDjfZ-3-s/s1600/my+part++221.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwxVYtOigppQIJXdbqpwROb_4Trmql_UAbeacm5M51VkaKBfDoGkmhjIo-aWkKeWvtWbNtAfcFC8J0nG_lHW-9oy0qLlwPL8jEIQ_8yXgNbvdTuVaFzbFTABZkJXlBwZ2v1FvDjfZ-3-s/s640/my+part++221.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This can be a very dramatic look, and is good for someone who wants the look of bangs, but doesn't want full-on fringe commitment. But notice how the look of my face changes. In my opinion, my face looks fuller here. However, the strong side part detracts from the asymmetry in my eyes. <br />
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And last, the center part...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigoevLcM21ztOMBseoxYR_PdC-XPr8vNwCpx-3CwyRNqRVmdexk1Oh6UeXkz8x-9weusm3l4jmPyFoAnuMvJs96lL62t2F-hZVOvB1Kj2n-L8W5MFzDn8BQF_fkyuldAsGtr5DZzv5FSs/s1600/my+part++222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigoevLcM21ztOMBseoxYR_PdC-XPr8vNwCpx-3CwyRNqRVmdexk1Oh6UeXkz8x-9weusm3l4jmPyFoAnuMvJs96lL62t2F-hZVOvB1Kj2n-L8W5MFzDn8BQF_fkyuldAsGtr5DZzv5FSs/s640/my+part++222.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I was surprised by this photo, as I believe that this is my best "me." I believe it opens my eyes wider, and puts a focus on my strong jaw line. The center part draws a virtual line down the middle of one's face. It causes the beholder to search for symmetry, which (believe it or not) most of us do not have in our features. The right side of my face is lazy. My teeth are more crooked, my lips are less full, and I have more scarring and acne on that side (when I break out).<br />
<br />
What do you think? Do you prefer the center part as well, or do you have a differing opinion? Go ahead. I can take it. <br />
<br />
In the meantime, have fun looking for your "best you," and then be sure to apply that to your formal "do." Center parts look best with very loose, romantic and low chignons, while a deep side part looks wonderful with more severe or classic styles. <br />
<br />
Have fun, and enjoy the tutorials that are coming soon!<br />
<br />
Rachel Bee<br />
<br />
<br />rachel beehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03596528108025086898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5082514854778837141.post-83802600750056686292012-01-10T04:32:00.000-08:002012-01-10T05:10:31.297-08:00Once upon a time, there was another really horrifying story...In about a week and a half, the church I attend is honoring the men and women who have volunteered in the last year. The event is called "The Big Show," aka "the Vollys," and if you don't remember last year's tutorials, please check them out! <br />
<br />
The event is formal, so most of the women who are attending have been thinking of what dress to wear, hair, makeup- the usual. But doing what I do, I do a lot of hair and makeup for formal events- and in the next week you'll read a few suggestions. <br />
<br />
The Big Show is a bit earlier this year by a few months, and perhaps the invite caught some people off-guard. If the recipients are anything like me, they gained a few pounds over the holidays; and the idea of wearing a formal dress right now is not the most thrilling. Either a well timed crash-diet is in order, or you need to focus all the more on hair and makeup. And this reminds me of a story.<br />
<br />
Once upon a time, in a land far far away, lived a poor college student named Rachel. She worked hard, volunteering at her church, making passing grades at her school, and working 20 hours a week at her local Starbucks (the maximum for international students).<br />
<br />
Rachel rarely had extra money, but when she did, she chose to spend it on things like very large slices of cheesecake, CDs, and gummy snakes. She could not be bothered with buying train tickets, paying her roommates back for prepaid phone cards, or planning for the future at all. She was after all, 21- and living in a strange land. If there was ever a time irresponsibility deserved to dwell, it was then and there. <br />
<br />
At the end of term, there was a formal banquet she was to attend. Earlier in the year, Rachel chose a dress from a sale rack. It was a gold-toned halter dress, made of matte jersey. It had a drop-waist and came just below the knee. She tried the dress on, and it fit perfectly, with only one glitch: undergarments. <br />
<br />
From all of that cheesecake Rachel had been eating, she developed a very ample bosom. She had never found strapless bras to be very effective for her size, and it didn't matter at the time, as she had no money. So Rachel stood in her small living room, and tried every trick of the trade known to womankind. She tried cutting straps off of bras, band aids, tank-tops, and finally settled on two squares of toilet paper, suspended by nothing else but the subtle pressure of matte jersey. Then she resolved that she must make her hair as large and obnoxious as possible to detract from the fact that she was wearing toilet paper for a bra. Something like... a straw set.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRUsl3qy75Y6vi1Re0PeiY8wYfgQMOAhxB0N18PV6Du4kLYCIKVWXkE2wlgfVca3I2BcWuxhFJL9aSd8QF5LwbLWY6pJK_l6sMc5-9_-doTN3lP-VVexqcbPXnCjdkhwiGHvvinoWqC2A/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRUsl3qy75Y6vi1Re0PeiY8wYfgQMOAhxB0N18PV6Du4kLYCIKVWXkE2wlgfVca3I2BcWuxhFJL9aSd8QF5LwbLWY6pJK_l6sMc5-9_-doTN3lP-VVexqcbPXnCjdkhwiGHvvinoWqC2A/s400/images.jpeg" width="293" /></a></div><br />
The event hosted around 900 guests and she changed in the restroom (she was early- did I mention she was an emcee???) . She emerged from the stall in toilet-papered glory, and while twirling to be sure everything was in tact, she discovered that her old, faithful leopard print undies were completely bunched up under her dress. She pulled, tugged, and thought of how another square of tp could remedy the situation. Hopeless, she yanked the undies off, put them in her bag, and bravely headed to the stage with nothing but a swatch of fabric, toilet paper, and really fabulous hair. <br />
<br />
The night went off without a glitch, and despite walking with robot-like discomfort, all she heard all night was how amazing her hair looked.<br />
<br />
The End. <br />
<br />
It is my hope that no one's situation is that desperate (and if it is, call me), but please stay tuned for great ideas for your hair in the next week. I can't wait to see all of my friends dolled up and decked out. <br />
<br />
Have a great day!<br />
<br />
Rachel Beerachel beehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03596528108025086898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5082514854778837141.post-12411813203437010822012-01-03T10:29:00.000-08:002012-01-03T10:29:56.665-08:00So Anyways...We have two monitors to our computer, and I couldn't be more grateful. <br />
<br />
Most of the time one screen plays an episode of vintage Donald Duck, Little Einsteins, or Babar and Badou; while the other is reserved for mommy or daddy business, such as reading the news or writing a blog. Last night Langston watched Tinga Tales while I surfed for video hair tutorials. But this afternoon, Langston is happy to play with his trains, while I watch Seinfeld's "Little Kicks" and write today's blog- a much better and brighter post than the last.<br />
<br />
Over Christmas I made this cake for a friend of ours. He used to live somewhere in California, where his wife worked at a bakery that sold a Toffee Coffee Cake. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnNiMPzoniPxel9UCb5R6bw0QvPBYTFGh2Ci4deXAge7LEpFr8MieSN8AGPjQ_9LojhdnjPtI6ZFkIIJj45U8U5VbIHvTyYN5h059__90JRnaEPVu5adUtpPI3vysZMijpMyGgdS8mxnbZ/s1600/toffee+coffee+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnNiMPzoniPxel9UCb5R6bw0QvPBYTFGh2Ci4deXAge7LEpFr8MieSN8AGPjQ_9LojhdnjPtI6ZFkIIJj45U8U5VbIHvTyYN5h059__90JRnaEPVu5adUtpPI3vysZMijpMyGgdS8mxnbZ/s640/toffee+coffee+%25282%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Now, I have never made toffee, and that is for good reason: I do not like it. I am not sure if it is the flavor or texture or what, but I simply don't like it. Having worked for Starbucks for years, I <i>do </i>know however that a Toffee Nut Latte was a pretty popular drink. I figured it was worth a go. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoHWGZRZVVrES0kVdM9RBaCDauwiEgx6y1LwriIOaTIeVu5VI6rgf6kQdlpUNJ76UXN_T3HPBu0zliFGAZ523_uRMqb7AX3P3YmIxj3mkdhI3FDy530-IM3HBYNnI8LUFZWd0cp-AXnzZD/s1600/toffee+coffee+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoHWGZRZVVrES0kVdM9RBaCDauwiEgx6y1LwriIOaTIeVu5VI6rgf6kQdlpUNJ76UXN_T3HPBu0zliFGAZ523_uRMqb7AX3P3YmIxj3mkdhI3FDy530-IM3HBYNnI8LUFZWd0cp-AXnzZD/s640/toffee+coffee+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
The toffee was very simple to make, although it was ugly. Something went wrong with spreading the chocolate, but overall it set very well and tasted like toffee (bleck). He wanted a classic butter cake for the base, and the Coffee Cream Cheese Frosting was intensely delicious. Like, extra delicious. Like, make-extra-so-that-you-can-find-a-corner-somewhere-and-have-your-way-with-it delicious. <br />
<br />
Really. Delicious. <br />
<br />
So here's to hoping you get a moment for yourself today, and if you get a couple of moments, make this cake for you and yours. <br />
<br />
Recipe tomorrow...<br />
<br />
Rachel Beerachel beehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03596528108025086898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5082514854778837141.post-28457790750402599312012-01-01T01:52:00.000-08:002012-01-01T01:58:08.730-08:00Caketastrophy...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhukIW6EgOsLrzeZqnDqepaqFVd97ZDZ1MhzecwvCNiLwqun_khj_6btC61YnqeuPKw4yiNhPTWkrDWaEZqMxMZiL9LKnUn2-kdsd7iQTcIQKQpKZlqaVH7sAPCL8k5ahT14qskBys0nezB/s1600/caketastrophy+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="638" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhukIW6EgOsLrzeZqnDqepaqFVd97ZDZ1MhzecwvCNiLwqun_khj_6btC61YnqeuPKw4yiNhPTWkrDWaEZqMxMZiL9LKnUn2-kdsd7iQTcIQKQpKZlqaVH7sAPCL8k5ahT14qskBys0nezB/s640/caketastrophy+%25282%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
It's a nice enough cake.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7h1Sww46pXtbaaFHA3cJTvXoTWZeQOL_Z6zC1hhUUSMHDEGiu39uqmId67ikkDAgRblP8mt_DjL0_HACA0hSzGVp3rtEnFjNRbkvNWdW5uWpX0GDWbAmEmfG3lBXSbAxeqItXekvtl7ZR/s1600/caketastrophy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7h1Sww46pXtbaaFHA3cJTvXoTWZeQOL_Z6zC1hhUUSMHDEGiu39uqmId67ikkDAgRblP8mt_DjL0_HACA0hSzGVp3rtEnFjNRbkvNWdW5uWpX0GDWbAmEmfG3lBXSbAxeqItXekvtl7ZR/s640/caketastrophy.jpg" width="456" /></a></div><br />
If you like that sort of thing.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiETRaeDtXK_Do9RBtv28XVdIfuFbaFuWTBRttfAngelivzgED0q0gji9mksLnhDoTwbkmqXWtiNEnmlBwM6M1WvCpz3Hz3gJSOEqpFr86uET4ln3S3NHG7iFPxnmXCC8A0JUxTzyyXGGqa/s1600/caketastrophy+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiETRaeDtXK_Do9RBtv28XVdIfuFbaFuWTBRttfAngelivzgED0q0gji9mksLnhDoTwbkmqXWtiNEnmlBwM6M1WvCpz3Hz3gJSOEqpFr86uET4ln3S3NHG7iFPxnmXCC8A0JUxTzyyXGGqa/s640/caketastrophy+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
If birds, branches, and other dainty girl things peak your interest, you might like this cake. If you like vats of Maple Cream Cheese Frosting, and piles of Spice Cake...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh91JzeW9LejgN-2U5Kf9pWJG41J9V9YL3P1NBOLv5WB8843UWOx7nMQcViiksS1HD_s78Yn2I7VA2dLKoNv3bZfnJalaZ0E9aTcu_A98GwXfcNq29KiYMTIZn3Y3TG8z-HGjz79Ma8Ssap/s1600/caketastrophy5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh91JzeW9LejgN-2U5Kf9pWJG41J9V9YL3P1NBOLv5WB8843UWOx7nMQcViiksS1HD_s78Yn2I7VA2dLKoNv3bZfnJalaZ0E9aTcu_A98GwXfcNq29KiYMTIZn3Y3TG8z-HGjz79Ma8Ssap/s640/caketastrophy5.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />
... and even more layers<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIh7PDRMkhsCknvUdPj_zlkytqPEfcgQQFj4MZpJuPT32FoKO0_HzRPGPZesupEU4avdp7YcsGzcBRsdK0PwrnmbsSwiolzWdkto3I5CJYZdcrZQjYDP1K6jXtKS6HHRuVSbdFRS-bJhgh/s1600/caketastrophy4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIh7PDRMkhsCknvUdPj_zlkytqPEfcgQQFj4MZpJuPT32FoKO0_HzRPGPZesupEU4avdp7YcsGzcBRsdK0PwrnmbsSwiolzWdkto3I5CJYZdcrZQjYDP1K6jXtKS6HHRuVSbdFRS-bJhgh/s640/caketastrophy4.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br />
... then this cake could have been for you. That cake, and three others. And about 2 weeks ago, I could have given you a really good deal on one. I was selling them for really nothing at all- for holiday parties, birthdays, personal fat days, whatever occasion you had- I could have frantically delivered a cake to your door. <br />
<br />
Really.<br />
<br />
For whatever occasion, except the one for which the monster was created. <br />
<br />
As you can probably tell, this cake was a wedding cake, but it was a bit late to the altar. Now, before you label little ol' me as "the worst person in the world" (as I did myself, about 1000 times), hear me out.<br />
<br />
...<br />
<br />
...<br />
<br />
OK. Now you can. Label me as such. But the story begins in March of last year, when for whatever reason I decided to put an ad on Craigslist for wedding cake. It was even a silly ad- completely honest and completely silly- explaining how I had never baked a wedding cake, but had a hankering to do so. <br />
<br />
And you wouldn't believe the response. Really. So many people responded with orders for "pink and black cupcakes with swirly designs," and "autumn cake with leaves," among many, many others. "H" was one of those girls hungry for a deal on cake, and boy, did I offer her a deal! <br />
<br />
We emailed lazily back and forth for months, and a few months ago we set up a cake tasting, which she had set up with not only her fiance, but she also brought her parents (or in-laws), and her two children. Of course I was expecting her hubs, but the entourage I was not, and the "coffee shop" where we met had cupcakes in the case that by looks blew mine completely out of the water! Add the shop owner who by rule wanted to kick me and my cupcakes to the curb, and I was one nerve-wrecked little girl!<br />
<br />
Regardless, the meeting went really well, and I really loved "H" and her family. I am sure we talked about the date and location... but did I write it down? No. I'd remember it. It was, after all, my first wedding. How could I forget a day like that?<br />
<br />
Fast forward a month or two, and I received an email to "be sure everything is OK for next week." "Honestly," I wrote, "I thought your wedding was New Years, so that's awful! So next Saturday, can I deliver your cakes after work, say at around 6?" <br />
<br />
"That's fine, The reception isn't until 8."<br />
<br />
So all week, I planned and made perfect, baking three enormous cakes for a girl I had grown to really like. And as I was piping the middle tier on Friday night, I took a break to check my email at around 11:30 PM. There, tucked into my spam folder were two frantic letters from "H," wondering where the heck her cakes were. <br />
<br />
I stood, bent over, my face a mere 3 inches from the screen, feeling as if I had gone completely mad. I paced and wondered, scouring emails and spam folders, wondering if she had corrected me when I said "Saturday" a week earlier. The only email I found from her containing the date of the wedding was from the initial email in March in response to the Craigslist post. Why didn't I write a contract? Why didn't I write it down on my calendar? You've got to be kidding me! Why did this happen? Why did it happen to me, but also, why did it happen to her? I have ruined her wedding! <br />
<br />
So I sent her an email, blubbering and bawling the whole way, promising her money back (long gone, and the week before Christmas), and I believe referring to myself as some degree of ogre. She was professional in her response, and later I did some stalking on the internet and found pictures of her, gorgeous and without mascara down her cheeks (Publix cakes lurking in the shadows). <br />
<br />
Now, I started writing about this a week ago or more, but it didn't seem right to share until today (today, being New Years morning at 4AM). I can't say that that this morning dawns a new beginning for me in any way more than a calendar change, as I have never been much for New Years shenanigans. It just took me this long to be able to share this failure with you, and to be able to say that I am not done with baking.<br />
<br />
And in all of your planning for the new year, to tell you that it is OK to fail. And expect to fail, especially if you're really good at stuff. Even if it is your one-year blog-aversary. <br />
<br />
Because stuff happens. And stuff only makes you better, or so they say. <br />
<br />
Still baking,<br />
<br />
Rachel Beerachel beehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03596528108025086898noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5082514854778837141.post-86250460117857088982011-12-05T02:46:00.000-08:002011-12-05T02:49:19.920-08:00Biscoff: get some...I enjoy what I do. Baking cupcakes, doing hair, and singing on the weekends... how God has blessed me!<br />
<br />
And this morning, I really don't want to say anything else. <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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGbayEOVbU-qUhaLEYEwOycM4SF8mQbexxNH-fE60jziRAOR87s9tXvo5fD1V6YG0Ft1Q2FBS0S5S8-lGY-_joirE0kFGWchHly-7MBW5It20ur_ZdnC7OwELfe-L1TMl4AdfpaauFm3c/s1600/pear+cupcakes++9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGbayEOVbU-qUhaLEYEwOycM4SF8mQbexxNH-fE60jziRAOR87s9tXvo5fD1V6YG0Ft1Q2FBS0S5S8-lGY-_joirE0kFGWchHly-7MBW5It20ur_ZdnC7OwELfe-L1TMl4AdfpaauFm3c/s640/pear+cupcakes++9.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Honey-Poached Pear Cupcakes with Biscoff Buttercream</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
But if I must, these are Honey-Poached Pear Cupcakes with Biscoff Buttercream. <br />
<br />
Biscoff. I stumbled upon it in a recipe one afternoon, and I did nearly an hour's research with cloudy results. Is it a paste? Is it a cookie? Wait- it's a spread made of cookies? What? How is this possible? And nearly a month ago, I found out. All of the sudden, Biscoff spread popped up everywhere, and at a moderately decent price (now it seems to be back up at $4.99). I went to my local Kroger and picked up a jar, and yes- it is made of 52% cookies, brown sugar, some other ingredients, and oil to bring it all together. It is smooth and creamy, with a consistency that is very similar to peanut butter. In fact, the label declares that it is "Europe's alternative to peanut butter," which is ridiculous on many levels, including the fact that there is NO nutritional value aside from caloric content in a jar of Biscoff. <br />
<br />
However, if while eating a bagel one day you wondered if you could combine your love of bagel-consumption with your love of cookies, but you thought it might make you choke- think again. Buy a jar of Biscoff and fight the urge to not only spread it on said bakery item, but also apples, crackers, a large spoon, or throw it into some frosting for goodness' sake. <br />
<br />
As if I needed another Nutella. <br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHNmq83txJPWgoNskvQNWFbBEiyPmBzqQ857ja0vDZENv4o2q6TUajOEHthyphenhyphenRI8FOd724q6VHNAVHaAf1tQma8JdwUKXBktORrRdLZmu3FbOZSunZuUaWxB5ZcHVOOdA1Cjfq1jjAo7mg/s1600/pear+cupcakes++7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHNmq83txJPWgoNskvQNWFbBEiyPmBzqQ857ja0vDZENv4o2q6TUajOEHthyphenhyphenRI8FOd724q6VHNAVHaAf1tQma8JdwUKXBktORrRdLZmu3FbOZSunZuUaWxB5ZcHVOOdA1Cjfq1jjAo7mg/s640/pear+cupcakes++7.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Honey-Poached Pear Cupcakes with Biscoff Buttercream</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Honey-Poached Pear Cupcakes with Biscoff Buttercream</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #674ea7;">Honey-Poached Pear Cupcakes with Biscoff Buttercream (adapted from <a href="http://ecupcake.blogspot.com/2008/01/honey-pear-cupcake-with-white-chocolate.html">Couture Cupcakes</a>)</span><br />
For the Poaching:<br />
2 Large or 3 medium-size pears (I used Bartlett)<br />
1/4 C honey<br />
1 2/3 C sugar<br />
3 cups water<br />
<br />
For the cake:<br />
1/2 C unsalted butter, softened<br />
1/2 C white sugar<br />
1/2 C brown sugar<br />
2 eggs, room temperature<br />
1 t vanilla extract<br />
1 2/3 C self-rising flour<br />
1/2 C buttermilk, room temperature<br />
1 poached pear, mashed<br />
1 poached pear, sliced<br />
<br />
For the frosting:<br />
2 sticks of butter, softened<br />
1/2 block cream cheese, softened<br />
1/3 C Biscoff spread<br />
3.5 C powdered sugar, sifted<br />
2 t vanilla extract<br />
<br />
To poach the pears, combine the sugar, honey, and water in a sauce pan. Bring to a boil, and let simmer for 10 minutes. Add the pears, and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool before you refrigerate them overnight in their poaching liquid. <br />
<br />
For the cake, cream the butter and sugars together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beat thoroughly after each addition. Add the vanilla extract.<br />
<br />
In three additions, add the flour, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the flour! Fold in the mashed pear. <br />
<br />
Spoon into 20 (or so) prepared muffin cups (about 2/3-3/4 full), and place a slice of pear on top of each one. Bake at 350 for 18-20 minutes, or until done. Immediately remove from the muffin pans, and place on a baking rack to cool thoroughly. <br />
<br />
For the frosting, cream together the butter, cream cheese, and Biscoff until smooth. Add the sifted powdered sugar, and mix well. Add the vanilla and beat well. <br />
<br />
Assemble: Frost the cakelets as desired, and sprinkle with crushed Biscoff cookies. I also made little fondant pears, using cloves for the stems, and placed them on top. <br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizRbZyHr_CQjtBIIC2AtFX675aLEgmbUjsDy_uxmWA-cn4cl0Hr29MK8ZIaEJxieyiSHfLkcSRFrgIVAnonx8LHcGd6cZfvOLeE-lFerXqZXraZ4lWDKNXjRnArAHXKyt6ucViejPj6gc/s1600/pear+cupcakes++8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizRbZyHr_CQjtBIIC2AtFX675aLEgmbUjsDy_uxmWA-cn4cl0Hr29MK8ZIaEJxieyiSHfLkcSRFrgIVAnonx8LHcGd6cZfvOLeE-lFerXqZXraZ4lWDKNXjRnArAHXKyt6ucViejPj6gc/s640/pear+cupcakes++8.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Honey-Poached Pear Cupcakes with Biscoff Buttercream</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
So cute, I think. And super delicious. <br />
<br />
Biscoff. Get some. Or don't. But do. And if you do, throw it into some frosting. Or an index finger.<br />
<br />
Amen.<br />
<br />
Rachelrachel beehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03596528108025086898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5082514854778837141.post-57810757734298803732011-11-23T02:02:00.000-08:002011-11-23T02:02:25.017-08:00Maybe just one last pumpkin dessert...My house is noisy. Always. <br />
<br />
It is a symphony of singing, televisions, pots clanging, extreme emotion, dogs scratching, and usually a washer or dryer as well. Tonight it is my son who is singing in his bed, "White Christmas" on the living room TV, "Community Season 2" in the bedroom, beds creaking, timers going off, and exuberant typing in the office. The "Bees" are generally a quiet group everywhere else, but at home we are wide open. <br />
<br />
I would be in a bed somewhere, except I agreed to baking a Lemon Layer Cake a few weeks ago, and here I am. But I am tired, and I hate typing at night. My brain is foggy. But if I don't type tonight, you will have nothing Thanksgiving-y to read on Thanksgiving Eve; and I cannot begin to say how wrong that is. <br />
<br />
So here I am, waiting for cake to cool, and about to share with you a dessert- the likes of which you are all to familiar with...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrVvsMMknir5FLEg7UKMD-4in8N6G2r_hboNcV4PU-f5jRD6D_rGyhylZyS7kJiP55uSGh_jcmHBmlzoTlctyKkQmBrftpvf2rV1jSrYubNS5wqg4LgwPjeXi06RZ5aX4llso9yIpCoXE/s1600/pgoocake++17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrVvsMMknir5FLEg7UKMD-4in8N6G2r_hboNcV4PU-f5jRD6D_rGyhylZyS7kJiP55uSGh_jcmHBmlzoTlctyKkQmBrftpvf2rV1jSrYubNS5wqg4LgwPjeXi06RZ5aX4llso9yIpCoXE/s640/pgoocake++17.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake. I have been baking this cake long before I knew anything about baking, as it is about as easy as pie ...er cake. As a St. Louis native, Gooey Butter cake graced my grandmother's table at most gatherings- long before Mrs. Dean cornered the market on all things "butter." But I have to admit, my grandmother never ate a Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake, and I do appreciated the "Lady" for developing the recipe. <br />
<br />
If you are one who has never made this cake, hold on to your socks, as it is amazing. The filling tastes like pumpkin pie, only with more butter, cream cheese, and sugar in it. The crust is nothing but cake mix, an egg, and a stick of melted butter. I really don't like the flavor of boxed cake mix anymore, but here it adds a texture that I am not sure can be replicated elsewhere. All in all, it's worth a try!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO4iDEi8rtaBQy6XEF2Lt_4W22hl4q5CucI0MTn4_xBwNVfwT6YcLzNnjbM5oXVJFEn1-fClFxMG5yTypiaX8XOlkY0SQxj7oLBZOOYWwUS7gqaJmwwjnm-mm176l3PlT7DONpzxXoqyE/s1600/pgoocake++16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO4iDEi8rtaBQy6XEF2Lt_4W22hl4q5CucI0MTn4_xBwNVfwT6YcLzNnjbM5oXVJFEn1-fClFxMG5yTypiaX8XOlkY0SQxj7oLBZOOYWwUS7gqaJmwwjnm-mm176l3PlT7DONpzxXoqyE/s640/pgoocake++16.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
You can find the recipe <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/paula-deen/pumpkin-gooey-butter-cakes-recipe/index.html">here,</a> as I am waaaay too sleepy and lazy to type it out. Actually, I fell asleep while typing last night, and it is now 5:00 AM and I have so much else to do. True story!<br />
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Anyway, Have a very Happy Thanksgiving, and I'll see you next week!<br />
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Rachel Beerachel beehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03596528108025086898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5082514854778837141.post-46642666408760433792011-11-22T03:48:00.000-08:002011-11-22T08:56:37.179-08:00"Choc-wate, pweeze?"I know that brownies have very little to do with Thanksgiving, but the boys in my family love to eat them. I have posted about brownies both <a href="http://beconfectionate.blogspot.com/2011/01/winter-wonderland.html">here</a> and <a href="http://beconfectionate.blogspot.com/2011/06/seven-up-cake-chess-cake-and-recipes.html">here</a>, all of the cocoa variety as I am too cheap to buy the literal pound of chocolate some require. For me, brownies are a quick project. They are soul food; belonging to the same category as mashed potatoes, meatloaf, and all things Sunday afternoon. I whip up a batch of brownies when my husband starts perusing our sweet-less pantry with a wilted look- when my son so sweetly looks up at me and says with a crooked grin, "choc-wate?" I make them when I am up to my elbows in sweet potato, and I worry as my husband has received no love from our oven. <br />
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<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTvrboGBVi60D7LELrEWsPUJq-F4MNV7-iGkMZSESMTLR-8d1a-tW5hk91x3LZSpyGkeYPUgnVgwLSiznpuSZtnVygIbpYiaYtSTd86lTM-btfEA_SreIBwGxXM5vvoaerWbc3hN62VPo/s1600/hershey+brownies++16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTvrboGBVi60D7LELrEWsPUJq-F4MNV7-iGkMZSESMTLR-8d1a-tW5hk91x3LZSpyGkeYPUgnVgwLSiznpuSZtnVygIbpYiaYtSTd86lTM-btfEA_SreIBwGxXM5vvoaerWbc3hN62VPo/s640/hershey+brownies++16.jpg" width="360" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Choc-wate, Pweeze?"</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
So here you go, another brownie post: so simple and nearly a guaranteed success, even for those of you who are box addicts. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkfTNi0_a2-bccJ_XSJVU4DBuur7C_hkTYBEWZeDGDDZl4BCMmPpILqsnC4drQ_H9gymbAJFdsXlntKinQI8uHccQoZpcwB2ujaA7cJFBopy2Ob8WGR2_Aa1hvPrrQRE4NwDhJngBoeXQ/s1600/hershey+brownies++14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkfTNi0_a2-bccJ_XSJVU4DBuur7C_hkTYBEWZeDGDDZl4BCMmPpILqsnC4drQ_H9gymbAJFdsXlntKinQI8uHccQoZpcwB2ujaA7cJFBopy2Ob8WGR2_Aa1hvPrrQRE4NwDhJngBoeXQ/s640/hershey+brownies++14.jpg" width="456" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hershey's Best Brownies</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #8e7cc3;">Hershey's Best Brownies</span><br />
1/2 cup butter, melted<br />
1 cup sugar<br />
2 eggs, room temperature<br />
1 t vanilla extract<br />
1/2 c ap flour<br />
1/4 t baking powder<br />
1/2 t salt<br />
1/3 cup cocoa powder<br />
1/2 cup of whatever you want to dump in there ( I put in mini peanut butter cups)<br />
<br />
Preheat the oven to 350. Butter an 8x8 pan (sometimes I use a cake pan). Set aside.<br />
<br />
In a bowl, mix together the butter, sugar, and vanilla. With a wooden spoon, incorporate the eggs. <br />
In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. Add them to the butter mixture, and stir just until mixed. Fold in your nuts, chocolate chips, or whatever else you want to put in there. <br />
Spread into the prepared pan, and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. <br />
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Let them cool in the pan. Cut and serve.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcqmhUYIa1vpfxTuYjlj7MXzEeeSBwV0VEl3qrF4EzYn_LQq4ZZPaftvarz032KybxSq2pW5Kmc_Udz9YSyNEgt-MOUYGT_L82HEV23NEHCUbGrq3qR4olR7x8MBru2X1dvLUmk2GUh2w/s1600/hershey+brownies++15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcqmhUYIa1vpfxTuYjlj7MXzEeeSBwV0VEl3qrF4EzYn_LQq4ZZPaftvarz032KybxSq2pW5Kmc_Udz9YSyNEgt-MOUYGT_L82HEV23NEHCUbGrq3qR4olR7x8MBru2X1dvLUmk2GUh2w/s640/hershey+brownies++15.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hershey's Best Brownies</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Delicious. Enjoy, and tomorrow there will be something bit more... Thanksgiving-y. <br />
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Rachel Beerachel beehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03596528108025086898noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5082514854778837141.post-65050379043448689262011-11-17T04:15:00.000-08:002011-11-19T15:38:46.985-08:00One last valiant effort...I really must say that I am not a huge fan of sweet potato, or cooked orange veggies in general. I don't care for the sweetness, nor do I really care for the texture. The little fibers that run back and forth across the flesh of a sweet potato I find to be revolting as my teeth cut through them individually. We never had sweet potatoes growing up, so I am going to assume that my parents don't care for them either. <br />
<div><br />
</div><div>Now, as the vegetable has received so much glory in recent years, believe me- I have tried to stomach them. I have tried them roasted with exorbitant amounts of butter, cinnamon, and sugar. I have tried them deep-fried with gallons of ketchup. I have even pureed them with heavy cream to see if maybe, just maybe there is one circumstance when I could swallow them without grimace. </div><div><br />
</div><div>In one final, valiant effort, I pureed a large roasted sweet potato and subbed it in for pumpkin in my Pumpkin Spice Cake. One bite of this tender cake and... sold. Top it with Brown Sugar Toasted Marshmallow Frosting, and call it "pretty darn palatable." </div><div><br />
</div><div>Oh, and did I mention it was a purple sweet potato?</div><div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQhyphenhyphenLoFtsjEZaVrp5d3wmcUzcCpHoTmXxnIkP995WfqGcZZvwTKpycmOHvz8pkpCe8ZffSOp1BLsrgFamB178DOKm57mjyjeIQiGEXGd7AVBfhUItcZeHeGUKkyS8Yob_6z3SlsF_TO-k/s1600/purple+cake++9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQhyphenhyphenLoFtsjEZaVrp5d3wmcUzcCpHoTmXxnIkP995WfqGcZZvwTKpycmOHvz8pkpCe8ZffSOp1BLsrgFamB178DOKm57mjyjeIQiGEXGd7AVBfhUItcZeHeGUKkyS8Yob_6z3SlsF_TO-k/s640/purple+cake++9.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Purple Sweet Potato Puree</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div><br />
</div><div>Yes, God's makes purple sweet potatoes, and above is the actual sweet potato puree mixed with some buttermilk. Wow. And here it is in cupcake form...</div><div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk5Se3NpWnGEo92R1qJ-8VeXNHNRtzIiekyyPcz4VcxW547Dre0B_HbrjPODoOCOqiTRrFV4hMhzYYhOFrXPUrbvoDJCgddsYtpBAPFsqU7Cdsuap8yFqFWyedZXVhz14T69IIZN2B3Ww/s1600/purple+cake++1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk5Se3NpWnGEo92R1qJ-8VeXNHNRtzIiekyyPcz4VcxW547Dre0B_HbrjPODoOCOqiTRrFV4hMhzYYhOFrXPUrbvoDJCgddsYtpBAPFsqU7Cdsuap8yFqFWyedZXVhz14T69IIZN2B3Ww/s640/purple+cake++1.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Purple Sweet Potato Cupcakes</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div><br />
</div><div>The cake was a bit more purple when I baked it, but it oxidized overnight (which was awfully disappointing). Regardless, I think it is still pretty pleasant on the eyes...</div><div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPOew1-4moT2lW9v_Tfout4U9O2qohXTojVP9ah1h04AjZ10DpIsAGCgtWYre7NMwWs1wDybnGYBG-pKMKaARnPxkI7-KVU6PqiMB4TSPctC8bx_i59p7hRe16l5POKrAOTOZsyFHgPi0/s1600/purple+cake++2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPOew1-4moT2lW9v_Tfout4U9O2qohXTojVP9ah1h04AjZ10DpIsAGCgtWYre7NMwWs1wDybnGYBG-pKMKaARnPxkI7-KVU6PqiMB4TSPctC8bx_i59p7hRe16l5POKrAOTOZsyFHgPi0/s640/purple+cake++2.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Purple Sweet Potato Cupcakes</td></tr>
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</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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicSH6TaDkbmkQ35lecFxs-wmeAOF8uBaV-4bWZuNheMcDK0r2X3WyyfPkKP3lq-xKMl2KfFUUvwwlZmyhegbxw7_kTionfXHtVil2igDdVTO6A55flqnwE9OcDb9_KVSkq7qGSdHULb0I/s1600/purple+cake++7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicSH6TaDkbmkQ35lecFxs-wmeAOF8uBaV-4bWZuNheMcDK0r2X3WyyfPkKP3lq-xKMl2KfFUUvwwlZmyhegbxw7_kTionfXHtVil2igDdVTO6A55flqnwE9OcDb9_KVSkq7qGSdHULb0I/s640/purple+cake++7.jpg" width="424" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With Candied Pecans</td></tr>
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</div><div>And for a finishing touch, I candied a handful of pecans. Good decision, I think...</div><div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmSJAxGR7uO60ct99Mp49eaInuYh2CbxnZvA-_EB5jxImQ4CSx3jvoPUmkQWyTOTovAPA_zW-q9GWDd2o9ZSojMyC4jBFj7wxs3UsKFDH3oduX_BnwOp40o6l6Q6NhR3LnNq6-FfFajnc/s1600/purple+cake++6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmSJAxGR7uO60ct99Mp49eaInuYh2CbxnZvA-_EB5jxImQ4CSx3jvoPUmkQWyTOTovAPA_zW-q9GWDd2o9ZSojMyC4jBFj7wxs3UsKFDH3oduX_BnwOp40o6l6Q6NhR3LnNq6-FfFajnc/s640/purple+cake++6.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Purple Sweet Potato Cupcakes with Toasted Brown Sugar Marshmallow Frosting</td></tr>
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</div><div>I found my purple sweet potato at the Fresh Market, which is an upscale although not necessarily natural grocery store. I am sure regular orange sweet potatoes will be just fine!</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #8e7cc3;">Purple Sweet Potato Cupcakes with Toasted Brown Sugar Marshmallow Frosting and Candied Pecans</span></div><div>(should make @16)</div><div>For the cake:</div><div>1 purple sweet potato, roasted (enough to make 1 cup of puree)</div><div>1/2 cup buttermilk</div><div>1 t vanilla extract</div><div>1 stick of unsalted butter, softened</div><div>1 1/4 cups brown sugar</div><div>2 eggs, room temperature</div><div>1 1/2 cups ap flour</div><div>1/4 cup corn starch </div><div>1 t soda</div><div>1/2 t kosher salt</div><div>1/4 t baking powder</div><div>1 t cinnamon</div><div>1/2 t ground ginger</div><div>1/4 t ground nutmeg or cloves</div><div><br />
</div><div>Puree 1 cup of the sweet potato with the buttermilk and vanilla. Set aside.</div><div>Preheat the oven to 350. Put liners in muffin tins.</div><div>Cream the brown sugar with the butter until fluffy, scraping the bowl down on occasion. </div><div>Add the eggs one at a time, beating completely into the batter. </div><div>In a separate bowl, sift together all of the dry ingredients. Add the dry ingredients in 3 additions, alternating with the puree. BEGIN AND END WITH THE DRY! Really scrape down the sides and bottom of your bowl between additions. You don't want beige streaks in your cupcakes.</div><div><br />
</div><div>When the ingredients are fully incorporated, fill the muffin cups all the way to the top. Bake for 18-20 minutes, and put individual cakes on a cooling rack immediately. </div><div><br />
</div><div>For the Frosting...</div><div>6 egg whites</div><div>1 cup white sugar</div><div>1/2 cup brown sugar</div><div>1/4+1/8 t cream of tartar</div><div>2 t vanilla paste or extract</div><div><br />
</div><div>In the bowl of a stand mixer (or in a double-boiler), mix the sugar with the egg whites. Place the bowl over a simmering pot of water, and stir constantly until a candy thermometer reads 160 degrees. Pull from the heat, and beat on high. Sprinkle in the cream of tartar, and beat for 6-7 minutes. The frosting should be ultra-stiff at this point. Add the vanilla, and blend to incorporate. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Pile the frosting on the cooled cupcakes, and singe the exterior with a kitchen torch. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Top with...</div><div><br />
</div><div>Candied Pecans!</div><div>1/2-1/4 of an egg white</div><div>@1/4 cup brown sugar</div><div>pinch of cinnamon</div><div>pinch of nutmeg</div><div>pinch of whatever other spices you want to throw in there...</div><div>pinch of kosher salt</div><div>1/2 cup pecan halves</div><div><br />
</div><div>Combine the egg white, sugar, salt, and spices in a small bowl to make a viscous syrup. Toss in the pecans and stir to coat. Pour onto a cookie sheet lined with wax paper, and spread out until even. Put in a oven preheated to 275, and bake for 15 minutes. When they cooled, I broke them apart and placed a few on each cupcake. And a few in my mouth. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Yum. Enjoy!</div><div><br />
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</div>rachel beehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03596528108025086898noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5082514854778837141.post-58382931901370140532011-11-15T03:13:00.000-08:002011-11-15T03:15:19.164-08:00The mellifluous voice of Josh Groban (she says with disdain)...Saturday morning I went into work all too early (6:45 to be exact). I have a sweet group of clients from out of town, and when one of these young women come my way, I do anything I can to accommodate her. <br />
<br />
I walked in the door, stumbling around and flipping on lights. Towels are stocked, sinks are clean, and foils are torn; but before I ran to unlock the door, I flipped on the radio and heard (to my horror) the mellifluous voice of Josh Groban singing "Oh Holy Night." Taken aback immediately, I swept a bit, considering that perhaps it was only a taste of the holidays- a precursor if you will as it is only November 12. As Josh belted his final note, I waited with bated breath to see if my gut held an accurate feeling- but no. Mariah Carey. "Wha, oh-oh. Yeah-ee-yeah yeah. Ooh ooh... (drums build) Christmaah...s" <br />
<br />
Immediately I felt old. I remembered the years when Christmas seemed so impossibly far away, when in April I would think, "If I had a choice right now, I wish time would move backwards so that Christmas gets here sooner." Now, all I felt Saturday morning was disdain and panic. What's today? When is Christmas? When is Thanksgiving? Have I ordered a turkey? Can I find more people to come over and eat it? What am I getting P for Christmas? NOOOOOOO! <br />
<br />
So it is officially begun. I have sworn off any feelings of "bah-humbug," and my mind is full of all things red and green, spices and peppermint. I usually hand-make gifts for my girlfriends, but I could not be bothered to knit right now. My friends are getting jewelry!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBYY5zIDa-qBfUzjnfjJyv0jhJViv6TjuYvnk_psx9J4pUQo4OJoLrtShLbrXklz0lupy7C-dwYWTku4B4o0QuczOdIDsmYeWKvaW4I0isZFSqTYn8k7Rr5DS1XKreStxCNajxrLYJEiE/s1600/necklaces++3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBYY5zIDa-qBfUzjnfjJyv0jhJViv6TjuYvnk_psx9J4pUQo4OJoLrtShLbrXklz0lupy7C-dwYWTku4B4o0QuczOdIDsmYeWKvaW4I0isZFSqTYn8k7Rr5DS1XKreStxCNajxrLYJEiE/s640/necklaces++3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYJlrpjzcWbZchtsICZLyeyrF41KKlbWuq0mOOVow_uSsNCAXBI4RRy1E-CdM6PWLFJW-ApvHP6XgjBDoydnjo70xhhutHCs08leGwuflVN4byKXJ3RovWnpzruuEdvIXBRX6aaGV-oSg/s1600/necklaces++4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYJlrpjzcWbZchtsICZLyeyrF41KKlbWuq0mOOVow_uSsNCAXBI4RRy1E-CdM6PWLFJW-ApvHP6XgjBDoydnjo70xhhutHCs08leGwuflVN4byKXJ3RovWnpzruuEdvIXBRX6aaGV-oSg/s640/necklaces++4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
And here is another example...<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoZlLOnOvTSfCHT611IZCePOfbarbvrt0o6OQRDGxGReHWqs5MII1BgEJ1IR_88fweb7nX6fKPJI-37tMztH1wDKOKpfYZDcn0A9HdGr36z72fR2WshK_YXV-68RbxbHA6q4G_ZgBMHNE/s1600/necklaces++6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoZlLOnOvTSfCHT611IZCePOfbarbvrt0o6OQRDGxGReHWqs5MII1BgEJ1IR_88fweb7nX6fKPJI-37tMztH1wDKOKpfYZDcn0A9HdGr36z72fR2WshK_YXV-68RbxbHA6q4G_ZgBMHNE/s640/necklaces++6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
I have a pile of necklaces that I have made, and I may show you a few more later. I might even show you how to make one. Wouldn't that be fun?<br />
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So pop in "Elf," or "White Christmas," or whatever gets you in that Chrsitmas mood, and start making something of your own for the holidays. <br />
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Rachel Beerachel beehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03596528108025086898noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5082514854778837141.post-54323566159600811302011-11-03T02:58:00.000-07:002011-11-03T03:00:01.272-07:00Pumpkin Apple Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting RecipeAgain. Again I have raging allergic aversions. At least I think that is what is going on. Moral of the story is to not skip a workout to clean out a closet that hasn't been cleaned out in four years. At least not without a mask. But here, as promised, is the recipe for my Pumpkin Apple Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG8TN9jcmhBGVn1jr8ORwCg2mLTevalxWBF1KIVY_jE8_C9RbKz8Qbao3OqARB1M8-IZRuH0SGu4H0ecs1jQVwCHP7OUMUMs5qmbK9Y6_RqBJ9vra_tEzidfGwgYzQf1cL3h613UBBuRg/s1600/dave%2527s+bday++2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG8TN9jcmhBGVn1jr8ORwCg2mLTevalxWBF1KIVY_jE8_C9RbKz8Qbao3OqARB1M8-IZRuH0SGu4H0ecs1jQVwCHP7OUMUMs5qmbK9Y6_RqBJ9vra_tEzidfGwgYzQf1cL3h613UBBuRg/s640/dave%2527s+bday++2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
Make them, have someone else make them- and eat them all until they are gone. Amen.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #8e7cc3;">Pumpkin Apple Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting</span><br />
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened<br />
1 1/4 cups light brown sugar<br />
2 eggs, room temperature<br />
1 cup pumpkin puree<br />
1 t vanilla<br />
2 cups minus 2 tablespoons all purpose flour<br />
1/4 t baking powder<br />
1 t baking soda<br />
1/2 t kosher salt<br />
1/2 t cinnamon<br />
1/4 t ginger<br />
1/8 t cloves<br />
1/2 cup buttermilk, sour cream, or plain greek yogurt<br />
1 Large Granny Smith Apple, chopped into 1/2" cubes<br />
2 T granulated sugar + 2 t cinnamon + 1 t flour<br />
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Preheat he oven to 350. Line 18 muffin cups with paper liners.<br />
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Cream the butter and sugar until very light and fluffy (this can take up to 8-10 minutes). Add the eggs one at a time, fully incorporating into the batter. Stir in the pumpkin and vanilla. Yes, your batter just became nearly curdled-looking. Do not worry. <br />
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In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients. Add to the batter alternatively with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour. Your batter should no longer look curdled. Be sure to scrape the sides and bottoms of the bowl between additions.<br />
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Chop up the apple and toss in the sugar/flour/cinnamon mixture. Fold into the batter. Spoon the batter into the muffin cups, almost to the top (these do not rise much). Bake for 17-20 minutes, or until done. <br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #8e7cc3;">Cream Cheese Frosting</span><br />
2 sticks unsalted butter, softened but still cool<br />
8 oz cream cheese, softened but still cool<br />
3.5 cups powdered sugar<br />
1 t vanilla extract<br />
pinch of kosher salt<br />
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Beat the butter and cream cheese together until no longer lumpy. Sift the powdered sugar into the mixture, and mix until combined. Add the vanilla and salt, and mix again. For fluffier frosting, you can beat for 3-5 minutes, but note that it will be full of small air bubbles and therefore not quite as pretty for frosting. <br />
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Frost after cooling completely, and decorate as desired. I topped mine with Pumpkin Spice Hershey's Kisses and a sprinkle of cinnamon. <br />
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Enjoy!rachel beehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03596528108025086898noreply@blogger.com1