Papery and Cakery Blog

Movie Week: Casablanca

2010-03-11T01:00:00.001-05:00

The drama, the glamour and the war-time romance that is Casablanca is something you can most definitely capture at your next event. Bring Ingrid's grace and Humphrey's style back from Rick's into the present with these ideas via Style Me Pretty and Ruffle Blog.

A unique setting, a beautiful dress, and vintage-inspired hairstyle are just a few pieces you'll need to make your event the next iconic Academy Award winner. {Casablanca won the Oscar for best picture the year it was released}.

"As time goes by" your guests will be saying "Play it again Sam".....

xoxo,

Niki

Movie Week: Gone with the Wind

2010-03-09T23:33:00.001-05:00

I'll never forget the first time I read Gone with the Wind. I was literally transfixed by the book, and then later, the movie. I've literally read it hundreds of times since, and it continues to draw me into its alluring world just the same each time. It must be genetic, since my mother claims she chose college at Emory just because of her "Gone with the Wind" fixation with Atlanta.

To bring Scarlett, Rhett, Ashley and the entire "Gone with the Wind" genre into your next event, is to throw a quintessentially Southern party. You might not be able to walk down the aisle at Tara Plantation, but location is key. I'd imagine that the charm of the deep South would be reflected in images such as these featured above via Southern Weddings {one of my favorites!}

These two dresses via Oscar de la Renta & Carolina Herrera are most definitely channelling Scarlett's signature style.

Of course, you wouldn't want to miss out on a matching "Just Married" parasol {which you can customize yourself at i do originals}.

And if this dosage of Southern hospitality was not enough for you, well then, "Frankly, my dear, I don't give a damn."

xoxo,

Niki

Movie Week: Breakfast at Tiffany's

2010-03-08T23:47:00.003-05:00

Oh the drama, the glamour and the elusive vintage chicness of Breakfast at Tiffany's! What if you could capture all of that allure and sophistication, bottle it up and turn out the most enchanting, vintage/retro party?!

Here are a few ways to take some a cue from Audrey Hepburn and create an incredibly elegant event.

I found these ridiculously fabulous invitations from Made With Love. I would mail them with these vintage Audrey stamps.

Ooh la la. You will be ogling over this stunning engagement photo shoot by Axioo. The bride's name is coincidentally Tiffany, but wow, does Axioo do an amazing job of capturing the glamour of the movie in these shots.

Martha threw the Today Show wedding a few years ago and opted for a Breakfast at Tiffany's theme. Literally, the wedding was a breakfast at the original Tiffany's on Fifth Avenue. I've been fixated on this wedding forever, since I watched it live! The small details {Martha's signature} are so spot-on, I'm thankful for so many photographs! From the ghost chair and mini tiffany blue fondant cakes, to the gift favors {equipped with a DVD of the movie} and the dress up kit for guests {with Audrey's signature giant sunglasses and boas!}.... so glamourous.

xoxo,

Niki

Movie Week: Alice Inspire

2010-03-07T23:59:00.002-05:00

With the Oscars last night, this week is dedicated to movie inspired events. Alice in Wonderland is the perfect way to start it off! The bright colors, imaginative decor and overall craziness creates the most fantastic party atmosphere!

I found this photograph on imdb.com and thought it would make for a fantastic invitation to the party. Papery and Cakery could create something custom, using this as inspiration, to help you fall down the rabbit hole!

I absolutely love this Alice in Wonderland themed party from Lollipop Events. This would make for the most fun and creative bridal tea party, shower, birthday party... or any old reason to celebrate! Be sure to invite the Cheshire cat and the Queen of Hearts!

I adore this fantastic photoshoot for an Alice and Wonderland themed party, featured on the Amy Atlas Events blog. The photos were shared with Amy by the South African store, In Good Company. The images are so whimsical and breathtaking!

Hopefully this will give you a little inspiration for your next {Mad Hatter tea} party!

xoxo,

Ali

Cakery Friday: PRECIOUS Popcorn... a real UP for Oscar Night!

2010-03-04T23:59:00.000-05:00

It's already Friday, we don't want you walking on The Blind Side or feeling Up In The Air about the Sunday night Oscar show. Be a Serious Man (or woman) and pay attention while we give you An Education on what to serve at your District 9 party. The Inglorious Bastards (and guests) will love the caramel and cajan popcorn. Afterwards, they can work the calories off in a Hurt Locker.

And the winner is... Avatar, silly!

To make the caramel chocolate popcorn...

Gather all the ingredients.

In a large saucepan place 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup corn syrup and 1/4 cup water.

Cook until golden brown. Do not mix during this time.

Add in 1/2 a teaspoon of baking soda and 1 tablespoon butter.

Add in 7 cups of hot air popped popcorn. Mix quickly.

Mix in any other toppings (I added pretzel bites to mine!)

Pour onto a baking sheet fitted with parchment paper or a Silpat mat.

Allow to cool slightly and drizzle with chocolate (I used both white and dark chocolate)

To make the Cajun popcorn...

Pull out all of the spice (paprika, seasoned salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper)

Melt 4 tablespoons of butter and add 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon seasoned salt, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder and 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper.

Pour over 8 cups of hot air popped popcorn.

Mix well!

For a printer friendly version of these recipes, click here: Caramel Chocolate Popcorn.htm

Happy Oscar's Night!

xoxo,

Ali

Brooch Bouquets

2010-03-03T23:54:00.001-05:00

Brilliant, beautiful and breathtaking are all the perfect words to describe Fantasy Florals Designs' brooch bouquets. I stumbled upon this idea via Daily Candy Weddings and can't quite get it out of my head.

The concept: you to collect brooches, earrings, pendants, watches, cuff links, etc. from family and friends. Once you have accumulated enough pieces, send them to Amanda Heer, the designer. And poof, Amanda will turn your baubles into an elaborate and vintage-inspired bouquet. She'll also add some of her own pieces to spruce up your "flowers." The best part is that these pieces will last a lifetime, and most definitely won't wilt!

xoxo,

Niki

Oscar Mania!

2010-03-02T23:46:00.001-05:00

I was thinking today how much fun I could have throwing an Oscar viewing party. It's almost like the girl's version of a Super Bowl party! I can go over-the-top with decorations, games and of course, food! Here are a few of my favorite ideas I would totally include.

A signature cocktail is always appreciated... like this Sidecar from Martha Stewart. It seems like pure Hollywood glamor.

No movie or television watching experience is complete without popcorn, and what's better then flavored popcorn? Or chocolate caramel?

Although it would be a huge undertaking, serving a meal made famous from a nominated movie is such a fun idea! I like this Beef Bourguignoune from Julie and Julia.

Or you could choose to create an entire meal around a movie. What about an Avatar themed meal, based on the color blue.... bleu cheese salad, blueberry muffins? The possibilities are endless!

Bakerella had two of the cutest ideas I have ever seen! I adore the "Award Night" sugar cookies as well as the "popcorn box" brownies! So creative!!!!!!

Ask your guests to pick who they think will win and play a game. Most correct answers wins a prize!

What are your favorite Oscar party ideas?

Happy Watching! {Fingers crossed for Meryl Streep in Julie and Julia!}

xoxo,

Ali

Succulent Love

2010-03-01T23:45:00.001-05:00

I think I've mentioned it before, but I am lacking a green thumb. Actually, I am lacking a green pointer finger, middle finger, ring finger and pinky finger. Needless to say, my plants have suffered my wrath.

That's why, when I discovered that succulent plants can be incorporated with such beauty and ease into even the most formal events, I was so thrilled. You see, succulents seem to be the only plants I've ever "raised" who don't turn brown and wither within a few days. Maybe that is because they only need to be spritzed with water and not constantly showered with attention!

I'll admit, my succulent obsession began with Kelly & Chris' wedding that I found here on Style Me Pretty last year.

Apparently, it triggered Kelly to start her very own succulent business herself. Now you can purchase Succulent Love's products online and have them shipped throughout the country straight to you. {Cole if you are somehow reading this, I love these succulents}. I'm especially enamored by the mini fish bowl filled with succulents.

Here are a few other images via Style Me Pretty of incredible ways to incorporate succulents into your next event.

xoxo,

Niki

2 Years....

2010-03-01T00:00:00.001-05:00

I feel like lately I'm becoming so sentimental on the blog, but today is our 2 year anniversary, so I feel entitled. To all of my friends and family who read this blog everyday {or at least tell me that}, can you believe Cole and I made it this far? I mean what was the over/under?

In all seriousness, I've had the most incredible two years of my life and feel so lucky to be married to my best friend and the love of my life {my sister, Gavi inevitably will be making fun of me for saying that, but it's true}.

Our wedding marked the start of a new chapter of our lives. It also helped me realize that my calling was not in the law, but instead in the creative field, leading to the birth of a business which I launched and cultivated over the past two years.

Weddings are beautiful and monumental. Fragrant flowers, fluffy white dresses and multi-tiered fondant cakes are a big part of it {and the dominant subject of this blog}. However, it's what comes after that joyous day that is honestly the real blessing. So to all of you brides reading this, remember that the details are important. There's nothing wrong with being particular about small elements of the wedding. Just try not to lose sight of the big picture: marriage. That's really what all of your family and friends are coming to celebrate. Before you know it, two years will have flown by....

Thanks to all of our family and friends who shared our day with us. It's a day we will obviously never ever forget. It was gorgeous, everything was perfection, but we loved it first and foremost becasue you gave us so much love and support.

Mostly, thanks to Cole who has always been right when he said that the best is yet to come.

Happy 2 years.

xoxo,

Niki

p.s. It's been 2 years and we still haven't done our wedding album. How's that for procrastination?

Cakery Friday: Beignets

2010-02-25T23:27:00.001-05:00

I spent last weekend eating my way through New Orleans, and I had to share some of the wonderful tastes of the Big Easy with you. The only catch is... I used a mix! These beignets taste so good, I hope you forgive me for cheating! I've tried to make beignets from scratch, but the truth is the mix is superior (the ultimate is getting yourself to New Orleans and eating fresh beignets from Cafe Du Monde in person, but this is the next best thing!) You can purchase the mix on Cafe Du Monde's website.

Beignet is actually the French word for "fried dough" and these have been made famous in the U.S. by Cafe du Monde in New Orleans. They are also the official state doughnut of Louisiana. Don't you think every state needs its own official doughnut?

It has become a family tradition for years that my Dad an I make these delicious doughnuts for an annual family breakfast at our cabin in Arkansas (Arkansas you say? Very long story for a future blog).

There really aren't many ingredients to gather. Start simply by pulling out the box

Place two cups of beighnets mix in a large bowl.

Add 7 ounces of water (add the water slowly and mix, you want the dough to be slightly sticky but not very wet).

Place the dough on a floured surface and roll out to 1/4 inch thickness.

Cut into 2 inch squares.

Heat 1-2 inches of oil in a pan and heat to 370 degrees. Place each dough square into the hot oil (be careful not to burn yourself!) basting continually on each side until puffy and light golden.

Drain well.

Sprinkle generously with powdered sugar and be sure to eat them warm (with a cup of Cafe Du Monde chicory coffee).

Mine looked almost as good as the ones from Cafe Du Monde!

Happy Beignet Day! Be sure to get yourself to the Big Easy soon to eat these at the real live Cafe Du Monde. In the meantime, hope you enjoy bringing a little piece of Cafe Du Monde into your kitchen.

xoxo,

Ali

Gorgeous Garden Table

2010-02-25T00:00:00.005-05:00

I rarely give her due credit, but my wonderful mother has become a blog-fanatic these days. I'm so lucky to have the daily barrage of emails from mom, sending me the latest and greatest ideas in design, fashion, weddings, and so much more.

Yesterday's email idea from mom was so fantastic I just had to share it today. She found it on a newly discovered blog, Slim Paley. {The blog is incredibly chic and the photography is to die for!}

The table is a landscape installation known as "The Future Feast in the Garden of Flow Accumulation." It was created for The Late Show Gardens in Sonoma by Equinox Landscape and designer Suzanne Biaggi.

There are so many things I love about this table, but sustainability and the integration into the landscape and surrounding garden are two of them. It's so stunning, and my head is exploding with so many ways to translate this unique concept into beautiful event decor. The best part is that it's real--you can actually eat right on the table, with plants growing in the center and gorgeous water cascading to a waterfall at table's edge.

Enjoy, and thanks mom!

xoxo,

Niki

Mason Jar Love {Part Deux}

2010-02-23T23:42:00.001-05:00

I have developed a recent obsession with Mason Jars. Niki posted about them a few months ago and I just can't seem to get them out of my head. For my Super Bowl party I created an ice cream buffet and served the ice cream in Mason Jars. Tt was a huge hit and got me thinking about the multiple uses of these fabulous jars!

They make the most beautiful flower vases, like these ideas from Style Me Pretty.

Or as a wide-mouthed glass (I really think drinks taste better from a Mason Jar!)

Martha Stewart illustrates "lantern" Mason Jars, which would be beautiful along a walkway or lining a long table.

Bakerella creatively put all of the dry ingredients for her Cowgirl Cookies in a Mason Jar. What a perfect gift!

I love this idea of baking cupcakes inside of Mason Jars from Cake Spy! You can put a lid on them and ship them as gifts!

Can't get enough of Mason Jars either? Buy The Mason Jar Dessert Cookbook!

Happy Mason Jar Day!

xoxo,

Ali

Eye Candy

2010-02-22T23:27:00.004-05:00

I love desserts so it's really no surprise that I'm deeply in love with many many desserts intricately stylized together on one fabulous table. In other words, I'm a huge fan of dessert bars.

Amy Atlas, dessert buffet-designer extraordinaire has seriously outdone herself again, with this pale pink and grey buffet.

I love how romantic and vintage that this table feels. I never thought that I would be describing sugar as romantic and vintage?!

And as long as I'm on a pink kick, check out this delectable DIY ice cream parlor table from Eat Drink Chic. This table truly elevates the ordinary to the extraordinary with chic and witty ideas for the sweets, tableware and graphics. I'm thinking I need a sundae asap.

What a perfect way to exhibit how food, especially confections can be so integral in the overall aesthetic of your event.

xoxo,

Niki

Elum Umi Invitations

2010-02-21T22:58:00.003-05:00

I'm so excited to be a retailer for the fabulous letterpress company, Elum. Elum's wedding albums (there are two of them!) as well as the baby album are absolutely fantastic, innovative and chic.

That's why I was so thrilled when Elum's newest invitation album Umi arrived at the store.

Umi is not only graphically gorgeous (duh), but it is also amazingly affordable for letterpress, utilizing package-priced ensembles. Plus, Elum paired up with Envelopments (another Papery & Cakery fave) to allow even more customizable envelopes, liners and enclosures.

Make and appointment today and come see what all of the Umi talk is about!

xoxo,

Niki

Cakery Friday: When Life Hands You Lemons Make Lemon Bars

2010-02-19T00:26:00.004-05:00

It's been a long day. This afternoon, we found out Cole has broken his foot. He did it playing basketball last night. It's not the end of the world by any means, but it's put a serious damper on a trip we've been planning to take next week.

Life handed us lemons... I think that is enough reason to make lemon bars.

I wish I could have given you a play-by-play equipped with photos of my mom's infamous lemon bar recipe. It's so easy and incredibly comforting, especially in a moment like this. Unfortunately, life got in the way.

Here's the recipe nonetheless.

Preheat oven to 350 F.

Melt 1 stick of unsalted butter. Mix in 1/4 cup confectioners (10x) sugar, 1 cup of all purpose flour and a pinch of salt. Flatten the mixture in the bottom of a 9 inch square brownie pan. Bake for 10 minutes. Remove and cool slightly

In a blender or a bowl combine:

1 cup granulated sugar

1/4 tsp salt

3 tbs fresh lemon juice

2 eggs

1 tbs flour

Mix in blender or in bowl with a large whisk until completely combined. Pour over the crust and bake for 25 minutes.

Cook in a rack and loosen edges.

While warm, cut into squares.

Once cooled, dust with additional confectioners sugar. (I usually use a fine sieve and pour the sugar over it).

Pour over the

Life handed us lemons... now we have lemon bars!

xoxo,

Niki

Delectable Dips!

2010-02-17T00:19:00.007-05:00

My friend Jamie recently introduced me to Kors d'Oeuvres, a new line of dips and spreads handmade by Korey Provencher, and I must admit these dips are to die for! After sampling them at the Brooklyn Flea Market on a snowy Saturday, I was hooked. I purchased a variety for my Super bowl party, and everyone ranted and raved about how good they are!

They come in delicious flavors like white bean and roasted olive, roasted pumpkin, butternut squash and goat cheese, Southern blue cheese and herb, and the "world's greatest" onion dip!

You can even order a party pack containing 6 12-ounce containers with everything you might need for an instant party- including flatbreads, savory crackers, and crudite for $100!

They are available for delivery and pick-up in the Manhattan and Brooklyn area at http://www.korsdoeuvres.com!

Happy (day-after your) Birthday Niki!

xoxo,

Ali

Birthday Bliss

2010-02-15T23:32:00.003-05:00

It's my birthday which feels strange to admit on my own blog. I was contemplating completely avoiding the subject altogether today. Then Cole convinced me that it's the one day of the year that I can be selfish (note the word one) so I should reward myself with a birthday post on whatever I feel like blogging about.

So here are a few particularly exciting things I'm looking forward to in this next (older and much wiser) year of my life:

10. A trip to Europe with Cole. Specifically to Rome, Florence and Paris. Ahhhhhh!

9. A new and fabulous Papery & Cakery studio.

8. A new and fabulous Papery & Cakery website and blog (in the works and coming very soon).

7. Being able to witness a few of my closest friends tie the knot.

6. Going to watch my brother and sister graduate from high school and college... (and celebrating those graduations in Greece with our entire and massive Kantor/Rubin clan).

And some less exciting things....

5. Walks to the ocean with Ray.

4. Walks to the beach with Cole.

3. Sleeping in late on many Saturdays.

2. Meeting with lots of wonderful future clients... brides, babies, birthdays and beyond.....

1. Time to blog.

Happy birthday me.

xoxo,

Niki

Cakery Friday: Valentine's Day Meringues

2010-02-11T23:45:00.000-05:00

"With Valentines Day just around the corner, I knew this weeks recipe had to be a heart day inspired dessert. The brown sugar in the recipe adds an extra hint of flavor and if you want to get really creative you can add orange or grapefruit zest also!

Gather all of the ingredients.

Preheat oven to 225 degrees.

In the bowl of your electric mixer place 5 egg whites, 1 1/4 cups brown sugar, 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract and a generous pinch of cream of tartar.

Place bowl over small pan with simmering water.

Whisk until mixture is warm and sugar has dissolved.

Attach bowl to mixer fitted with whisk attachment. Starting on low speed gradually increase to high, beat to stiff, glossy peaks, about 5 minutes. Add in the gel coloring to the pink coloring you desire.

Transfer meringue into piping bag with either star tip or round tip and pipe heart shaped cookies onto Silpat mat (or parchment paper) fitted on baking sheet.

Sprinkle with sanding sugar, if desired.

Bake for 2 1/2 or 3 hours until meringues are firm and can be easily removed from Silpat pat or parchment paper.

For a printer-friendly version of this recipe click here: Valentines Day Meringues.htm

Happy Valentines Day!

xoxo,

Ali

Have a DIY Valentine's Day

2010-02-10T23:20:00.001-05:00

Oh Valentine's Day, how quickly you are approaching.... and how lame am I for being so unprepared.

Searching the endless wealth of DIY projects on the blog, here are a few of my favorite finds.

Unravel a Valentine's Day love letter with this stunning project from Paper n stitch blog.

Twig and Thistle is really brilliant.

For a simple way to make a big statement of amor, wrap your love's toothbrush with a little note stating "I've got a sweet tooth for you...."

Or print your own adorable packaging for brownies (use a cookies cutter to make them heart shaped!).

Need a project to do with the kiddos, try Martha's custom candy wrapped craziness, or her "hand"-made cards!

Sometimes the only thing necessary for the the perfect night is wine & chocolate... and a little romantic way to wrap it all up in an adorable little kit via Design*Sponge.

Remember, in the end, all you need is love.

xoxo,

Niki

Ali's Valentine's Day Gift Guide

2010-02-09T23:16:00.001-05:00

Looking for the perfect gift for someone special this Valentines Day? Check out a few of my favorite things!

Love, love everything from Ettika! These bracelets are awesome alone and or stacked together!

How cute are these presents from 1 800 flowers? Sweetheart candies mixed with fabulous flowers or a giant fortune cookie?!? So adorable!

I am obsessed with these lingerie bags from Give Wink! Also really am a fan of the monogrammed pillows--so sweet!

The bra's from Top Secret are totally cool! They look amazing under long tanks, burn-out shirts, or alone...

I heart everything designed by the fabulous jewelry connoisseur Jennifer Zeuner. The love necklace & bracelet are perfect for V-day. The swirly initial necklace is spectacular (my sisters and I are obsessed with ours!).

Happy V-Day!

xoxo,

Ali

Choco-holic

2010-02-08T23:45:00.001-05:00

Some girls love flowers, some girls love diamonds, I love chocolate. I might actually be in an illicit relationship with it (please don't tell Cole).

I'm really not a huge Valentine's Day person. I've always felt slighted by the romantic holiday, since my birthday comes very shortly after. Still, I'll indulge in some Valentines Day decadence as long as it involves chocolate.

Here are a few luscious looking recipes from some of my favorite food bloggers. I'm of the opinion that these should be made for me, and definitely not by me on February 14th.

If there's one thing I love almost as much as chocolate it is peanut butter. The combination: deadly. I'm dying for these chocolate peanut butter macaroons by Cannelle et Vanille. Or this triple chocolate mousse... three ways. Um, hello, sign me up.

I've recently become an avid reader of Tartlette's blog and almost lost my mind when I saw this recipe for a Chocolate Torte, Caramel Ice Cream and Chocolate Sorbet. And Chocolate Mudcake Ice Cream Sandwiches. Yes, please.

Bakerella had me at hello with this fourteen layer cake. Yes, fourteen layers baked individually like pancakes and then coated in a chocolate ganache followed by a buttercream frosting. That is dedication to a chocolate love.

Peanut butter and chocolate strikes again with this Chocolate Peanut Butter Cake from Smitten Kitchen.

The other night Gavi and I whipped up another Barefoot Contessa de-light (Note: there is nothing light about this recipe). While I'm a big fan of her Outrageous Brownies, sometimes you just don't have the time for a double boiler.

Have no fear, Ina's Brownie Pudding is here. This recipe takes only cocoa powder, so no need to stand over the stove slowly melting chocolate. Plus, it bakes in a casserole dish (preferably round) and is very undercooked in the center. Translation: the perfect combination of crusty brownies along the edge and brownie batter in the center. In other words, bliss.

Is your mouth watering now?

Share your favorite chocolate recipes with us today.

xoxo,

Niki

Geaux Saints!

2010-02-07T23:32:00.005-05:00

I interrupt what was supposed to be the first day of Valentine's Day week to bring you a special congratulatory post for the New Orleans Saints! Am so thrilled that for the team and the city of New Orleans for their first, well-deserved Super Bowl championship. Also big congrats to all of our New Orleans loving friends, especially Meat & Brandon.

New Orleans is one of my very favorite places. Cole and I spent an amazing weekend there last year to celebrate our anniversary and Valentines Day. If you've never been, I can't recommend it highly enough. Here are some of my favorite things in the Big Easy:

Sip Cafe Au Lait and eat the most incredible Beignets (dee- fried heaven) at world-famous Cafe Du Monde. You'll be covered in powdered sugar, but its worth every artery-clogging bite!

Walk around the beautiful and historic French quarter. The architecture is breathtaking, and the people watching will make it worth your while. The stunning wrought iron balconies with lush plants hanging over them is so unique.

Eat! Trust me, it's hard not to be putting something delicious into your mouth every second. New Orleans is truly a city of food. Cajun, creole, French.... the sky is the limit. I could do a years worth of posts on restaurants worth trying but I'll mention two noteworthy favorites.

We had a total blast having lunch at Galatoires on a Friday afternoon. Located in the heart of Bourbon Street, Friday lunch at Galatoires is a completely memorable experience, filled mostly with locals. Men and women are often dressed to the nines (aka sport coats, no shorts). Tables are a hot commodity so prepare to wait or line up early in the AM. Lunch is a dining experience, so many drinks and lounging is par for the course. There's no rush to flip the tables. I'd highly recommend the shrimp remoulade, Brabant Potatoes, softshell crab meuniere, crabmeat or crawfish maison, and anything with oysters. Many mint juleps later.... (Note: we happened to hit Galatoires during early Mardi Gras last year--hence, the fabulous costumes)

We also had a one of the most decadent and delicious means I've ever eaten at Restaurant August by the infamous New Orleans native, Chef John Besh. I am not sure I can rave enough. It was ah-maz-ing. Classic New Orleans French cuisine with a modern, creative and unexpected twist. One meal there has made me a John Besh fan for life. Just make a reservation and go, trust me.

Of course, you wouldn't want miss out on the craziness of Bourbon Street. New Orleans would be a perfect bachelor/bachelorette party destination. Good food, good friends, good booze....

Congrats to the Saints! Who dat!

xoxo,

Niki

Honorable mentions: shopping on Magazine Street, BBQ shirmp at Pascal's Manale, Oysters at Acme, Hurricanes at Pat O'Brien's....

Cakery Friday: The Perfect Mini Muffin

2010-02-04T23:48:00.002-05:00

I've had issues with muffins, too big, too small, over-baked sides, spilling over the top. I was on a quest to create the perfect (mini) muffin, and I definitely scored a touchdown with this recipe (had to throw a football pun in their somewhere). The ricotta in these particular muffins makes the cake super light. I am always sucker for streusel topping!

Gather all of the ingredients.

To make the streusel:

Place 2/3 cup brown sugar, packed, ½ cup all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon salt in mixer fitted with paddle. Add 6 tablespoons chilled, cubed butter. Stir in ¾ cup oats.

For the cake:

Mix together 1 3/4 cups flour, ¾ teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda and ¼ teaspoon salt in a medium bowl.

Using an electric hand mixer or the paddle attachment on a stand mixer beat 1/2 cup butter with 1 cup granulated sugar and 2 teaspoons vanilla. Add 2 eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Alternately add 1/4 of the flour mixture and 1/4 cup ricotta cheese to batter (a total of 1 cup of ricotta cheese, divided into quarters), continue until all of the flour is gone and all of the ricotta cheese has been used. Mix on low speed after each addition until combined. Note: this batter will be rather thick and stiff.

Divide batter among mini muffin tins, being careful to fill them just about halfway. If desired, you can swirl a little bit of fruit jam into each muffin. Divide streusel evenly among muffins and sprinkle on top. I didn't use baking cups but you definitely can.

Bake for 20-23 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Set pans on a wire rack until cool enough to handle, then carefully remove mini muffins.

For a printer-friendly version of this recipe click here: Mini Coffee Cake Muffins.htm

Happy Baking!

xoxo,

Ali

Macaroni & Cheese: Barefoot Contessa Style

2010-02-03T22:13:00.005-05:00

As most of you know by now, I'm slightly (ok, extremely) obsessed with the Barefoot Contessa.

I love the show.

I fantasize about her kitchen.

I own every single Barefoot Contessa cookbook. Ever.

I've tried tons of the recipes from the cookbooks. The guacamole is heavenly and a snap to make. Beatty's chocolate cake is to die for. I serve rosemary cashews at almost every party I host.

That's why when my equally Barefoot Contessa-obsessed aunt, Ellen, called me a few years ago and told me there was a recipe I absolutely, positively had to make, I was riddled with excitement and anticipation.

And so, then and there, I whipped up the most decadent, delicious, diet-breaking recipe ever: Barefoot Contessa's Mac & Cheese!

I've always been a big fan of comfort foods, and mac & cheese is a noteworthy staple. Once you try Ina's Mac & Cheese, though, you will never go back.

Since I'll be preparing this dish for Super Bowl Sunday (an annual tradition), I thought I'd share the secret with you. Make it. Eat it. Love it. (and please don't even try to count the calories).

Mac & Cheese
serves 6 to 8

Kosher salt
Vegetable oil
1 lb elbow macaroni or cavatappi (those delicious corkscrews)
1 quart of milk
1 stick of unsalted butter
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
12 ounces Gruyere Cheese (4 cups)
8 oz. extra sharp cheedar (I like using the white kind) (2 cups)
1/2 tsp. grated black pepper
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
3/4 lb fresh tomatoes (I've made the recipe with and without these)
1 and 1/2 cups fresh white bread crumbs (or from the can, if you feel lazy)

Preheat oven to 375

Boil a large pot of water. Add salt and oil once boiling. Cook pasta according to directions on the package or slightly al dente. Drain.

Here's the tricky part: you need 2 saucepans to create the sauce

Heat the milk in a small saucepan without boiling it.

In a large pot melt 6 tbs. of the butter and add the flour. Cook over low heat while stirring with a whisk. According to Ina, this takes out the flour taste. While whisking, add the hot milk (inevitably this will be messy, aprons are not your enemy). Cook for a few minutes until the mixture is thickened and smooth. Remove it from the heat and add the cheeses. * Note here: my aunt sometimes reverses the amount of each cheese--using more cheddar than Gruyere. I like the gruyere as a dominant flavor but it is a little stronger with more bite. The more you make it, the more you can try to vary the proportions of the cheeses until you have it just right. * Add 1 tbs. salt along with the pepper and the nutmeg. Lastly, add in the cooked pasta and stir.

Pour the mixture into a 3 quart baking dish. (This is usually the point where I start eating the pre-baked mac & cheese and have to convince myself to put it in the oven so other people can eventually enjoy too). This is also the point where you can refrigerate the mixture, covered, until you are officially ready to bake.

Place the sliced tomatoes on top. (Totally optional if you are feeling like they would be a healthy afront to the dish). Sprinkle the bread crumbs on top. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until sauce is bubbly and slightly browned on top.

Recipe courtesy of the Barefoot Contessa.

Eat it in good health (or right after a very hard work out).

xoxo,

Niki

SUPERBOWL SUNDAY!

2010-02-02T23:45:00.001-05:00

I LOVE to entertain, it's in my blood. My mom is a fantastic hostess and has been throwing fabulous parties for most of my lifetime. I jump at any opportunity to host a party, and what's a better excuse than the Super Bowl? I've been doing my blog homework and here are some of my favorite ideas.

Love the idea of dressing up this 7 Layer Bean Dip by serving it in a glass jar instead of the traditional dish.

Guests will swoon over this Spinach Dip!

Pretzels are a staple, and these homemade soft pretzels look so ridiculous!

I am OBSESSED with this idea! Short on serving bowls? Make an edible one!

For a simple but creative dessert this Grasshopper Cake is easy and delish!

Lastly, a root beer float/sundae bar is an easy and economic way to satisfy lots of hungry mouths.

I'd love to hear your creative Super Bowl party ideas!

xoxo,

Ali