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Smetanik Cake

smetanik cake
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smetanik cake

 

Smetanik cake is a Russian sour cream cake with sour cream frosting. It’s not overly sweet and the cream feels really light and smooth. If you love moist cakes you can add sugar syrup to moisten it, if you’re more on the drier type cake then skip this step. You can also add raspberries (my fave..) or any other berries for a little sour sweetness. My family loves this cake, it’s one of our favorites.

 

Ingredients:

6 eggs

1 1/4 cup sugar

1 1/4 cup sour cream

1 teaspoon vanilla

1 tablespoon baking soda + 2 tablespoons vinegar(combined)

1 1/2 cup flour

2 tablespoons cocoa powder

 

Cream/frosting:

8 ozs cream cheese

8 ozs condensed milk

1  1/2 cup sour cream

1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Sugar syrup

1/2 cup cold boiling water with 1 tablespoon sugar for soaking

Optional-

raspberries,strawberries,blueberries,or bananas.

Direction:

Heat oven to 325 F degrees

Prepare two 9 inch cake pans lined with parchment paper and greased or sprayed with non-stick baking spray.

Beat eggs with sugar using electric mixer on high speed.

Add in sour cream,vanilla,and baking soda mixed with vinegar.

Continue to mix on medium-high speed until well incorporated.

Sift flour directly in the bowl with cake batter.

Mix gently using a whisk, always working one direction.

Divide mixture in half.

Add cocoa to one half,and mix it in with a whisk.

Pour cake batter into prepared cake pans. (1 for white cake,1 for chocolate cake)

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until when toothpick inserted and comes out clean.

Let cool.

Cream-

Using electric mixer, beat cream cheese on high speed, scraping the sides when needed.

Bring down the speed to medium and gradually add condensed milk.

Add in powdered sugar, sour cream, and vanilla.

Bring the speed up to high and continue mixing for about another minute or so.

 

Assembling-

Slice really carefully both cakes in half.

Cut off tiny amount of cake from around the sides of the cake.Set aside, we will need it for later.

Starting with chocolate layer, spray or pour (using a spoon) some sugar syrup on the cutted side of the cake layer.

Add good amount of cream.  If adding any berries or bananas, arrange them on top of cream.

Place white cake layer on top of cream, and repeat the steps. If adding berries or bananas, Arrange them on every other layer.

Using a shredder, Shred cake pieces in to tiny crumbs.

Add the crumbs to the sides and top of the cake. Or you can use chocolate/vanilla wafers or chocolate wafer candy (shredded)

Decorate with berries or as desired.

Refrigerate for at least 6 hours.

 

smetanik cake

 

 

 

 

Smetanik Cake

Ingredients

  • 6 eggs
  • 1 1/4 cup sugar
  • 1 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1 tablespoon baking soda + 2 tablespoons vinegar(combined)
  • 1 1/2 cup flour
  • 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
  • Cream/frosting:
  • 8 ozs cream cheese
  • 8 ozs condensed milk
  • 1 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
  • Sugar syrup
  • 1/2 cup cold boiling water with 1 tablespoon sugar for soaking
  • Optional-
  • raspberries,strawberries,blueberries,or bananas.

Instructions

  1. Heat oven to 325 F degrees
  2. Prepare two 9 inch cake pans lined with parchment paper and greased or sprayed with non-stick baking spray.
  3. Beat eggs with sugar using electric mixer on high speed.
  4. Add in sour cream,vanilla,and baking soda mixed with vinegar.
  5. Continue to mix on medium-high speed until well incorporated.
  6. Sift flour directly in the bowl with cake batter.
  7. Mix gently using a whisk, always working one direction.
  8. Divide mixture in half.
  9. Add cocoa to one half,and mix it in with a whisk.
  10. Pour cake batter into prepared cake pans. (1 for white cake,1 for chocolate cake)
  11. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until when toothpick inserted and comes out clean.
  12. Let cool.
  13. Cream-
  14. Using electric mixer, beat cream cheese on high speed, scraping the sides when needed.
  15. Bring down the speed to medium and gradually add condensed milk.
  16. Add in powdered sugar, sour cream, and vanilla.
  17. Bring the speed up to high and continue mixing for about another minute or so.
  18. Assembling-
  19. Slice really carefully both cakes in half.
  20. Cut off tiny amount of cake from around the sides of the cake.Set aside, we will need it for later.
  21. Starting with chocolate layer, spray or pour (using a spoon) some sugar syrup on the cutted side of the cake layer.
  22. Add good amount of cream. If adding any berries or bananas, arrange them on top of cream.
  23. Place white cake layer on top of cream, and repeat the steps. If adding berries or bananas, Arrange them on every other layer.
  24. Using a shredder, Shred cake pieces in to tiny crumbs.
  25. Add the crumbs to the sides and top of the cake. Or you can use chocolate/vanilla wafers or chocolate wafer candy (shredded)
  26. Decorate with berries or as desired.
  27. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours.
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Honey Cake

honey cake
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honey cake

 

 

This a 4 layered honey cake with smooth mascarpone cream frosting. You can add nuts for  some crunch and drizzle caramel sauce for a twisted unique flavor. It’s really delicious and impressive!

Recipe was adapted from grabandgorecipes.com

 

Ingredients:

6 eggs

1  1/4 cup sugar

3 Tbsp. honey
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp. baking soda + 1 tablespoon vinegar
1 tsp. vanilla extract
Frosting:
2 sticks butter room temperature
16 ozs. mascarpone cheese
4 ozs. cream cheese room temp.
1 1/2 can condensed milk

soaking:

1/2 cup boiling  water cooled

1/4 cup heavy whipping cream or half/half

2 tablespoons condensed milk

( mix all ingredients together)

 

Optional :

toasted walnuts,peanuts,or almonds.

prunes

caramel

toffee bites

cheerios or trader joes O’s

 

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.
On high speed beat the eggs until pale and fluffy.
Slowly add sugar and beat for another 3-4 minutes. Lower speed to medium-low, add honey.
Mix baking soda with vinegar and add to eggs mixture.
 Gradually add in flour. Go slowly so the batter stays fluffy.
Line the bottom with parchment paper and spray two springform baking pans  (9” round) with cooking spray.
Pour the batter evenly into the baking dishes and bake for about 30-35 minutes.
Check if the cake is ready with a toothpick, if nothing sticks to it, it is done.
Frosting:
Beat together butter with cream cheese.
With mixer still running, slowly and gradually pour in condensed milk.
Add mascarpone cream and beat on high until well incorporated but not more than 1 minute.
Assembling:
Slice two cakes in half.
pour,spray, or drizzle  soaking mixture on first layer.
Spread some frosting. You can sprinkle with nuts,toffee bites, or add prunes to each layer (optional).
Repeat the steps with each layer.
Spread the rest of the frosting all over the cake.
Decorate the sides and top as desired.
I used trader Joes O’s (crushed in a blender) on the sides of the cake and drizzled caramel on top.
Honey Cake

Ingredients

  • 6 eggs
  • 1 1/4 cup sugar
  • 3 Tbsp. honey
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp. baking soda + 1 tablespoon vinegar
  • 1 tsp. vanilla extract
  • Frosting:
  • 2 sticks butter room temperature
  • 16 ozs. mascarpone cheese
  • 4 ozs. cream cheese room temp.
  • 1 1/2 can condensed milk
  • soaking:
  • 1/2 cup boiling water cooled
  • 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream or half/half
  • 2 tablespoons condensed milk
  • ( mix all ingredients together)
  • Optional :
  • toasted walnuts,peanuts,or almonds.
  • prunes
  • caramel
  • toffee bites
  • cheerios or trader joes O's

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.
  2. On high speed beat the eggs until pale and fluffy.
  3. Slowly add sugar and beat for another 3-4 minutes. Lower speed to medium-low, add honey.
  4. Mix baking soda with vinegar and add to eggs mixture.
  5. Gradually add in flour. Go slowly so the batter stays fluffy.
  6. Line the bottom with parchment paper and spray two springform baking pans (9” round) with cooking spray.
  7. Pour the batter evenly into the baking dishes and bake for about 30-35 minutes.
  8. Check if the cake is ready with a toothpick, if nothing sticks to it, it is done.
  9. Frosting:
  10. Beat together butter with cream cheese.
  11. With mixer still running, slowly and gradually pour in condensed milk.
  12. Add mascarpone cream and beat on high until well incorporated but not more than 1 minute.
  13. Assembling:
  14. Slice two cakes in half.
  15. pour,spray, or drizzle soaking mixture on first layer.
  16. Spread some frosting. You can sprinkle with nuts,toffee bites, or add prunes to each layer (optional).
  17. Repeat the steps with each layer.
  18. Spread the rest of the frosting all over the cake.
  19. Decorate the sides and top as desired.
  20. I used trader Joes O's (crushed in a blender) on the sides of the cake and drizzled caramel on top.
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Lemon Blueberry Bread

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lemon blueberry bread

 

This Lemon blueberry bread is bursting with  deliciousness! Sweet juicy blueberries and tangy lemon complement each other well. Lemon glaze on top of the bread makes it divine and scrumptious. It’s a perfect breakfast bread with coffee or tea.

Ingredients:

2 eggs

2 cups  flour + 1 tablespoon divided

2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup butter room temperature

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 cup sugar

1/2 cup sour cream*

1/3 cup milk*

zest of 2 lemons

juice of 1 lemon

1 cup blueberries

Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar

2-3 tablespoons lemon juice

zest of 1 lemon

* you can sub in greek yogurt

 

Directions:

Pre heat oven to 350.

Spray 8×4 loaf pan with cooking spray.

In small bowl, toss blueberries with 1 tablespoon flour.

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

In a separate bowl, mix together the butter, vanilla, eggs, sugar, sour cream,milk, lemon zest, and lemon juice.

Combine the wet and dry ingredients, just until smooth. Do not overmix or your bread will come out tough.

Gently fold the blueberries into the batter.

Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-55 minutes. The bread will be finished when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Once bread is finished, remove from oven and allow to cool for about 10 minutes in the loaf pan. Remove from loaf pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Once bread has cooled, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice and zest. Start with one tablespoon of lemon juice and whisk well. If your mixture is too thick, slowly add up to one more tablespoon of lemon juice. You want the glaze to be thin enough to drizzle, but thick enough to set up on the bread.

Using a spoon, drizzle the glaze on top of the bread. The glaze should harden up a little more after about 15-20 minutes.

 

Adapted from Livewellbakeoften.com

 

lemon blueberry bread-3

Lemon Blueberry Bread

Ingredients

  • 2 eggs
  • 2 cups flour + 1 tablespoon divided
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup sour cream*
  • 1/3 cup milk*
  • zest of 2 lemons
  • juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 cup blueberries
  • Glaze:
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice
  • zest of 1 lemon
  • * you can sub in greek yogurt

Instructions

  1. Pre heat oven to 350.
  2. Spray 8x4 loaf pan with cooking spray.
  3. In small bowl, toss blueberries with 1 tablespoon flour.
  4. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
  5. In a separate bowl, mix together the butter, vanilla, eggs, sugar, sour cream,milk, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
  6. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, just until smooth. Do not overmix or your bread will come out tough.
  7. Gently fold the blueberries into the batter.
  8. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-55 minutes. The bread will be finished when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  9. Once bread is finished, remove from oven and allow to cool for about 10 minutes in the loaf pan. Remove from loaf pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
  10. Once bread has cooled, whisk together the powdered sugar, lemon juice and zest. Start with one tablespoon of lemon juice and whisk well. If your mixture is too thick, slowly add up to one more tablespoon of lemon juice. You want the glaze to be thin enough to drizzle, but thick enough to set up on the bread.
  11. Using a spoon, drizzle the glaze on top of the bread. The glaze should harden up a little more after about 15-20 minutes.
  12. Adapted from Livewellbakeoften.com
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Dulce de leche Tiramisu Cake

coffee cake
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coffee cake

Dulce de leche Tiramisu cake is a well loved classic cake with a twist. This cake is replaced with sponge cake for lady fingers and with creamy dulce de leche frosting. Always perfect dessert for any occasion.

 

Ingredients for cake:

8 eggs

1 1/3 cups sugar

1 1/3 cup flour sifted

Cream:

4 ozs. cream cheese

1/4 cup powdered sugar

1 can (8 ozs) cooked condensed milk or dulce de leche

17.5 ozs. mascarpone cream

1 cup heavy whipping cream

Other ingredients:

3/4 cup coffee

1/2 cup Kahlua liqueur

toasted hazelnuts (optional)

 

Directions:

On high speed beat eggs with sugar.

When the batter is stiff and light, add flour and mix it gently and well on low .

Pour the batter into 10 ”* round baking pan and bake for about 35-40 minutes.

Let the cake cool.

*if using 9” reduce to 7 eggs,1 1/4 cup sugar and flour.

Cream:

In Stand/hand mixer beat cream cheese with dulce de leche.

Add mascarpone cream and beat not more then a minute, just until well combined.

In a separate bowl beat together heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar.

Gently fold in whipped cream into dulce de leche cream.

In a small bowl or spray bottle combine coffee with kahlua liqueur.

Assembling:

Divide the sponge cake in half.

Soak the bottom layer with coffee mixture.

Spread good amount of frosting.

If desired, sprinkle toasted crushed hazelnuts.

Soak the other half of sponge cake, and place it on top of the bottom layer.

Spread frosting all over the cake reserving some frosting for decoration.

Decorate as desired. Dust with cocoa powder.

 

 

coffee cake

 

 

Apple Cake Treats

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apple cake treats-4

 

 

These are scrumptious and cute apple cake treats.They are mini apple cakes with sweet caramel like frosting, and covered all over with crunchy nut and cake crumb. These treat can be versatile by using your choice of nuts, and also can be made as a whole cake by using 2 (9 inch) cake pans.

 

Ingredients:

1o eggs

1 1/2 cup sugar

1 1/2 cup + 1/2 cup flour separated

1 teaspoon baking powder

5 apples peeled and diced

 

Frosting:

1 1/2 can cooked condensed milk (dulce de leche)

2 1/2 sticks butter room temp.

4 ozs. cream cheese room temp.

8 ozs. pecans

 

apple cake treats

 

Direction:

Heat oven to 350 degrees.

Line two large baking sheets with parchments paper. Grease or spray with nonstick spray.

In a stand or hand mixer beat eggs with sugar until pale and fluffy.

Sift 1 1/2 cup flour with baking powder and gradually add to egg mixture on medium-low speed.

Mix apples with 1/2 cup flour .

Gently mix in apples into batter.

Divide batter among two baking sheets.

Bake for about 13-15 minutes.

apple cake treats-2

 

Frosting:

Beat butter and cream cheese until smooth.

Gradually add in dulce de leche.

 

Assembling:

Cut out cirlcles using small round cookie cutter.

 

apple cake treats-3

Remove apples from the scraps.Break scraps into small pieces and toast them in the oven until golden brown.

Take one mini cake round and spread generous amount of frosting.Add another round on top.

Spread frosting on the top and side of the cake.

Crush pecans using a blender.Transfer to deep medium bowl.

Take toasted cake pieces and crush using a blender.

Add it to pecans and mix it together.

Cover mini cake with nut and cake coating.

 

apple cake treats-6

Apple Cake Treats

Ingredients

  • 1o eggs
  • 1 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 1/2 cup + 1/2 cup flour separated
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 5 apples peeled and diced
  • Frosting:
  • 1 1/2 can cooked condensed milk (dulce de leche)
  • 2 1/2 sticks butter room temp.
  • 4 ozs. cream cheese room temp.
  • 8 ozs. pecans

Instructions

  1. Heat oven to 350 degrees.
  2. Line two large baking sheets with parchments paper. Grease or spray with nonstick spray.
  3. In a stand or hand mixer beat eggs with sugar until pale and fluffy.
  4. Sift 1 1/2 cup flour with baking powder and gradually add to egg mixture on medium-low speed.
  5. Mix apples with 1/2 cup flour .
  6. Gently mix in apples into batter.
  7. Divide batter among two baking sheets.
  8. Bake for about 13-15 minutes.
  9. Frosting:
  10. Beat butter and cream cheese until smooth.
  11. Gradually add in dulce de leche.
  12. Assembling:
  13. Cut out cirlcles using small round cookie cutter.
  14. Remove apples from the scraps.Break scraps into small pieces and toast them in the oven until golden brown.
  15. Take one mini cake round and spread generous amount of frosting.Add another round on top.
  16. Spread frosting on the top and side of the cake.
  17. Crush pecans using a blender.Transfer to deep medium bowl.
  18. Take toasted cake pieces and crush using a blender.
  19. Add it to pecans and mix it together.
  20. Cover mini cake with nut and cake coating.
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Best German Chocolate Cake Recipe

german chocolate cake-3
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german chocolate cake

 

This is the best German chocolate cake recipe ever! Perfect,rich, and moist chocolate cake with creamy, nutty, coconut, caramel like frosting. It’s one of our favorite chocolate cakes. This is the BEST chocolate layer cake that can be used with other frostings and/or fillings.

 

Ingredients:

Chocolate cake-

2 cups all-urpose flour

2 cups sugar

3/4 cup cocoa  (I used raw cocoa)

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda

1 tablespoon vinegar

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup milk

1/2 cup vegetable oil or any other unflavored oil.

2 eggs

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 cup boiling water

 

Frosting:

1 can  or 1 1/2 cup evaporated milk

1 1/4 cup white sugar

3 egg yolks beaten with 1 teaspoon water

3/4 cup butter

1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups chopped pecans

1 1/2 cup flaked coconut

1 3/4 tablespoons cornstarch

 

Chocolate cream:*

4 ozs. cream cheese

1 cup powdered sugar

2 tablespoons cocoa

1 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

 

* Or double the recipe for frosting

 

Directions:

Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees F.

Grease 2 (9-inch)round cake pans.

In a mixing bowl (I use Kitchen Aid) whisk or combine flour,sugar,cocoa,baking powder,baking soda mixed with vinegar, and salt.

Stir until well combined.

Add milk,oil,eggs, and vanilla to flour mixture and mix together on medium speed until well combined.

Reduce speed to low and add boiling water a little bit at a time.

Once the water is all mixed in, beat on high for 1 minute.

Evenly distribute cake batter between two prepared pans.

Bake for 30-35 minutes.

Remove from oven and allow to cool completely(out of the pan).

 

While the cake is baking, prepare frosting-

 

In a large saucepan whisk evaporated milk and cornstarch.

Add in sugar,egg yolks,butter ,and vanilla.

Cook over low heat stirring constantly  until thick.

Remove from him and stir in pecans and coconut.

Let cool.

Chocolate cream:

Beat together cream cheese,powdered sugar, and vanilla.

Gradually add heavy whipping cream starting on medium speed and going up as the cream thickens.

 

Soaking ~ (Optional)-

1 cup water

1 tablespoon brandy, cognac or kahlua liqueur .

 

Assembling cake:

Spray or pour with spoon water and liqueur over the first chocolate cake.

Spread with some cooled frosting.

Place the other cake layer on top. Moisten it, and cover the whole cake with chocolate cream starting with sides.

Spread the rest of the frosting on top of the cake. Decorate as desired.

Refrigerate for 30 minutes or more.

This divine and super delicious recipe was adapted from adashofsanity.com.

german chocolate cake-6

 

 

Best German Chocolate Cake Recipe

Ingredients

  • Chocolate cake-
  • 2 cups all-urpose flour
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 3/4 cup cocoa (I used raw cocoa)
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil or any other unflavored oil.
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 cup boiling water
  • Frosting:
  • 1 can or 1 1/2 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 1/4 cup white sugar
  • 3 egg yolks beaten with 1 teaspoon water
  • 3/4 cup butter
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
  • 1 1/2 cup flaked coconut
  • 1 3/4 tablespoons cornstarch
  • Chocolate cream:*
  • 4 ozs. cream cheese
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cocoa
  • 1 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • * Or double the recipe for frosting

Instructions

  1. Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees F.
  2. Grease 2 (9-inch)round cake pans.
  3. In a mixing bowl (I use Kitchen Aid) whisk or combine flour,sugar,cocoa,baking powder,baking soda mixed with vinegar, and salt.
  4. Stir until well combined.
  5. Add milk,oil,eggs, and vanilla to flour mixture and mix together on medium speed until well combined.
  6. Reduce speed to low and add boiling water a little bit at a time.
  7. Once the water is all mixed in, beat on high for 1 minute.
  8. Evenly distribute cake batter between two prepared pans.
  9. Bake for 30-35 minutes.
  10. Remove from oven and allow to cool completely(out of the pan).
  11. While cake is baking prepare frosting-
  12. In a large saucepan whisk evaporated milk and cornstarch.
  13. Add in sugar,egg yolks,butter ,and vanilla.
  14. Cook over low heat stirring constantly until thick.
  15. Remove from him and stir in pecans and coconut.
  16. Let cool.
  17. Chocolate cream:
  18. Beat together cream cheese,powdered sugar, and vanilla.
  19. Gradually add heavy whipping cream starting on medium speed and going up as the cream thickens.
  20. Soaking ~ (Optional)-
  21. 1 cup water
  22. 1 tablespoon brandy, cognac or kahlua liqueur .
  23. Assembling cake:
  24. Spray or pour with spoon water and liqueur over the first chocolate cake.
  25. Spread with some cooled frosting.
  26. Place the other cake layer on top. Moisten it, and cover the whole cake with chocolate cream starting with sides.
  27. Spread the rest of the frosting on top of the cake. Decorate as desired.
  28. Refrigerate for 30 minutes or more.
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german chocolate cake-3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

French Breakfast muffins – healthier version

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whole wheat french breakfast muffinsThese are fantastic french breakfast muffins that are a little guilt free. It’s a healthier version recipe with whole wheat and oat flour,and coconut oil (click here on how to choose your coconut oil). Coconut oil is much healthier then butter or shortening and surprisingly… taste of it is not noticed in the muffin. They are perfect and delicious goodies for breakfast, brunch, snack, or a little treat with tea. They are our family favorite. Very simple and easy to make and incredibly tasty.

These healthier version of french breakfast muffins are not dry,wet, or hard, but very soft and absolutely delicious…to the part where they can be very addicting!!!  It’s hard to eat just one…you’ll want seconds..or  thirds, or maybe more.

 

 

 

french breakfast muffins-2

 

French Breakfast muffins – healthier version

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cup whole wheat flour*
  • 1 1/2 cups oat flour*
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon + 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
  • 2 eggs
  • 2/3 cup coconut oil*
  • 1 1/4 cup milk*
  • You can sub in all purpose flour,butter and just reduce milk to 1 cup.
  • Coating:
  • 2 1/2 sticks butter melted
  • 2 1/4 cup sugar
  • 4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees
  2. Grease a mini muffin/cupcake pan.
  3. In a bowl,using a whisk,stir together flours,salt,baking powder and set aside.
  4. In a separate bowl,whisk together coconut oil with sugar. Add the eggs and mix.
  5. Stir in flour mixture alternately with milk. (one third flour,one third milk...)
  6. Divide batter evenly among mini muffin/cupcake cups.
  7. Bake for 13-15 minutes.
  8. Prepare coating.Combine sugar,cinnamon,and nutmeg in deep dish or bowl.melt butter.
  9. When done baking, dip the warm muffins in the butter,coating well.Then roll muffins in the cinnamon nutmeg sugar mixture to coat well.
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      french breakfast muffins

Peach Muffins

peach muffins-2
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peach muffins

 

Sweet and tender cake-like peach muffins with crunchy and buttery almond crumble.These Peach muffins can be a delightful breakfast or dessert treat when peaches are in season.

Ingredients:

3 cups flour (I used 1 1/2 cup white and 1 1/2 cup whole wheat)

3 eggs

1 cup sugar

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1/2 cup oil

1 1/2 cups plain yoghurt

3/4 cup milk

1 teaspoon vanilla

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon optional

2 large or 3 small peaches diced

Almond crumble:

3/4 cup almonds*

3/4 cup flour

3/4 cup softened butter

3/4 cup brown sugar*

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon optional

*you can sub in walnuts for almonds, and regular granulated sugar for brown sugar.

 

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400F.

In a bowl, whisk together flour,sugar,salt,baking powder and cinnamon(optional).

In another bowl,whisk together eggs,yoghurt,milk,oil, and vanilla.

Combine wet ingredients with dry ingredients and mix in peaches.

Line a cupcake pan or a muffin pan with liners. Spoon batter in to each liner 3/4 full.

 

In a medium bowl using fork or your hands mix all crumble ingredients.

Top muffin batter with generous amount of almond crumble.

Bake for 15-17 minutes if using cupcake pan or 22-24 minutes if using muffin pan.

peach muffins

 

 

peach muffins-2

peach muffins-5

 

Peach Muffins

Ingredients

  • 3 cups flour (I used 1 1/2 cup white and 1 1/2 cup whole wheat)
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 cup oil
  • 1 1/2 cups plain yoghurt
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon optional
  • 2 large or 3 small peaches diced
  • Almond crumble:
  • 3/4 cup almonds*
  • 3/4 cup flour
  • 3/4 cup softened butter
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar*
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon optional
  • *you can sub in walnuts for almonds, and regular granulated sugar for brown sugar.

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400F.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour,sugar,salt,baking powder and cinnamon(optional).
  3. In another bowl,whisk together eggs,yoghurt,milk,oil, and vanilla.
  4. Combine wet ingredients with dry ingredients and mix in peaches.
  5. Line a cupcake pan or a muffin pan with liners. Spoon batter in to each liner 3/4 full.
  6. In a medium bowl using fork or your hands mix all crumble ingredients.
  7. Top muffin batter with generous amount of almond crumble.
  8. Bake for 15-17 minutes if using cupcake pan or 22-24 minutes if using muffin pan.
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Almond Chocolate Coconut Scones

almond coconut and chocolate scones-3
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almond chocolate coconut scones

 

Scones are classic teatime biscuit treats that are quick and easy to make.These almond chocolate coconut scones are full of scrumptious goodness.Slightly sweetened flaky biscuits with shaved chocolate, sliced almonds, coconut flakes and glazed with sweet coconut glaze.They are perfect with coffee or tea.

 

Ingredients:

3 cups all-purpose flour

3 tablespoons sugar

1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon baking powder

3/4 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter,cold.

1 cup coconut milk  (milk,almond milk or cream will work too)

1 egg

1/2 cup sliced almonds toasted

1/2 cup chopped chocolate ( or chocolate chips)

1/2 cup shredded coconut toasted

 

Glaze:

1 1/2 cup powdered sugar

2 tablespoons  coconut milk,milk,or cream

1/4 teaspoon vanilla

Direction:

Preheat oven to 400F degrees.

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

In a bowl of stand mixer,whisk together flour,sugar,baking powder,and salt.Shred cold butter and using your hands quickly work in the butter with flour mixture to create crumb mixture. You can also use a large blender to combine flour mixture with butter.

Add coconut,chocolate, and almonds to the mixture.

in a small bowl whisk coconut milk with egg.

Add milk and egg mixture to flour mixture and mix until combined.

On a slightly floured surface,divide the dough in half and pat a 6 inch circle.Cut the circle in to wedges.Transfer scones to baking sheet and set them at least 1 inch apart.

Bake for 15 to 18 minutes.

Prepare the glaze.Combine powdered sugar with coconut milk (reg.milk) and vanilla.

Pour or brush glaze over baked warm scones. Sprinkle with coconut flakes and sliced almonds over the top.

almond coconut and chocolate scones-3

 

 

Almond Chocolate Coconut Scones

Ingredients

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 sticks unsalted butter,cold.
  • 3/4 cup coconut milk (milk,almond milk or cream will work too)
  • 1 egg
  • 1/3 cup sliced almonds toasted
  • 1/3 cup chopped chocolate ( or chocolate chips)
  • 1/3 cup shredded coconut toasted
  • Glaze:
  • 1 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons coconut milk,milk,or cream
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400F degrees.
  2. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
  3. In a bowl of stand mixer,whisk together flour,sugar,baking powder,and salt.Shred cold butter and using your hands quickly work in the butter with flour mixture to create crumb mixture. You can also use a large blender to combine flour mixture with butter.
  4. Add coconut,chocolate, and almonds to the mixture.
  5. in a small bowl whisk coconut milk with egg.
  6. Add milk and egg mixture to flour mixture and mix until combined.
  7. On a slightly floured surface,divide the dough in half and pat a 6 inch circle.Cut the circle in to wedges.Transfer scones to baking sheet and set them at least 1 inch apart.
  8. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes.
  9. Prepare the glaze.Combine powdered sugar with coconut milk (reg.milk) and vanilla.
  10. Pour or brush glaze over baked warm scones. Sprinkle with coconut flakes and sliced almonds over the top.
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almond coconut and chocolate scones-6

 

 

Blueberry Lemon Sticky buns

sticky buns
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blueberry lemon sticky buns-8

These blueberry lemon sticky buns are beyond delicious! They are super good,sticky,and fingerlicking.My kids loved them…my family members loved them…Im sure you’ll love them too. Perfect with cup of coffee in the morning.Kids liked them with milk, and great with hot cup of tea as well.

Ingredients-

yields 18-20 rolls

Dough:
1 cup warm milk (not hot)
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup butter melted (1/2 stick)
2 large or 3 medium eggs
1 1/2 tablespoons oil

1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoon yeast
1 tablespoon sour cream

2 ozs cream cheese*

1 teaspoon vanilla

3 1/2 – 4 cups Canadian flour(highly recommended)  or all purpose flour**
1 egg for egg wash

1 tablespoon water

 

Filling:

2 lemon zested

3/4 cup white sugar

3/4 flour

1/2 (1/4 cup) butter melted

blueberries

 

Glaze-

2 cups powdered sugar

1/2 lemon juice squeezed

lemon zest from 1 lemon optional

1/4 cup butter melted

1/2 cup milk

 

* you can replace for 1/4 cup sour cream
**Most European/Russian stores and Winco Foods carry it.
Direction using bread maker:
Add sugar to milk.Stir until sugar disolves.Stir in yeast and 1/2 cup flour and set aside.

Melt butter,let it cool.

In another mixing bowl whisk with hand blender eggs,cream cheese,sour cream,oil,salt,vanilla.

Whisk in milk mixture to egg mixture.

Whisk in butter.Add rest of the flour,and transfer dough mixture to bread maker.

Set your setting on “dough”.

With stand mixer:

1.Follow steps 1-4

2.Whisk in butter.Transfer mixture to stand mixer bowl.

3.Add flour.

4.Mix dough with hook attachment.Starting on med-low speed and increasing speed gradually to highest.

5.Cover bowl with plastic wrap.Place the bowl in the warmest place in your house covered with blanket or towel.

I like to place it in the microwave(don’t turn it on!).

6.Let dough rise,about 2 +/- hours.

 

Filling-

 

In a mixing bowl, combine lemon zest and sugar. Rub sugar and lemon zest using your hands.

Whisk in flour.

Pour in butter and rub the mixture with your hands to create crumbs.

 

Making buns-

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Butter or grease 2 small or 1 large baking pans/dish.

Roll the dough into large thin ractangle.

Brush on a thin layer of melted butter or spread evenly using your fingers.

Sprinkle the filling mixture over buttered dough.

blueberry lemon sticky buns-2

Sprinkle blueberries over crumb mixture.Roll the dough into a log.Pinch the edges and seal the seams.

blueberry lemon sticky buns-3

Slice the roll into 1 inch slice.Arrange pieces onto buttered pans.

blueberry lemon sticky buns-4

Cover with kitchen towel and allow to rise for about 20 minutes. Take it outside during summer for quicker better rise.

Whisk egg and water together and brush on buns.

Bake for 25-30 minutes or until they are deep golden brown.

Glaze- Combine all ingredients together using a whisk.

Remove buns from oven and pour the glaze over them while hot.

Serve warm or room temperature.

sticky buns

Blueberry Lemon Sticky buns

Ingredients

  • yields 18-20 rolls
  • Dough:
  • 1 cup warm milk (not hot)
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/4 cup butter melted (1/2 stick)
  • 2 large or 3 medium eggs
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon yeast
  • 1 tablespoon sour cream
  • 2 ozs cream cheese*
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • 3 1/2 – 4 cups Canadian flour(highly recommended) or all purpose flour**
  • 1 egg for egg wash
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • Filling:
  • 2 lemon zested
  • 3/4 cup white sugar
  • 3/4 flour
  • 1/2 (1/4 cup) butter melted
  • blueberries
  • Glaze-
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 lemon juice squeezed
  • lemon zest from 1 lemon optional
  • 1/4 cup butter melted
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • * you can replace for 1/4 cup sour cream
  • **Most European/Russian stores and Winco Foods carry it.

Instructions

  1. Direction using bread maker:
  2. Add sugar to milk.Stir until sugar disolves.Stir in yeast and 1/2 cup flour and set aside.
  3. Melt butter,let it cool.
  4. In another mixing bowl whisk with hand blender eggs,cream cheese,sour cream,oil,salt,vanilla.
  5. Whisk in milk mixture to egg mixture.
  6. Whisk in butter.Add rest of the flour,and transfer dough mixture to bread maker.
  7. Set your setting on "dough".
  8. With stand mixer:
  9. 1.Follow steps 1-4
  10. 2.Whisk in butter.Transfer mixture to stand mixer bowl.
  11. 3.Add flour.
  12. 4.Mix dough with hook attachment.Starting on med-low speed and increasing speed gradually to highest.
  13. 5.Cover bowl with plastic wrap.Place the bowl in the warmest place in your house covered with blanket or towel.
  14. I like to place it in the microwave(don't turn it on!).
  15. 6.Let dough rise,about 2 +/- hours.
  16. Filling-
  17. In a mixing bowl, combine lemon zest and sugar. Rub sugar and lemon zest using your hands.
  18. Whisk in flour.
  19. Pour in butter and rub the mixture with your hands to create crumbs.
  20. Making buns-
  21. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  22. Butter or grease 2 small or 1 large baking pans/dish.
  23. Roll the dough into large thin ractangle.
  24. Brush on a thin layer of melted butter or spread evenly using your fingers.
  25. Sprinkle the filling mixture over buttered dough.
  26. Sprinkle blueberries over crumb mixture.Roll the dough into a log.Pinch the edges and seal the seams.
  27. Slice the roll into 1 inch slice.Arrange pieces onto buttered pans.
  28. Cover with kitchen towel and allow to rise for about 20 minutes. Take it outside during summer for quicker better rise.
  29. Whisk egg and water together and brush on buns.
  30. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until they are deep golden brown.
  31. Glaze- Combine all ingredients together using a whisk.
  32. Remove buns from oven and pour the glaze over them while hot.
  33. Serve warm or room temperature.
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Berry Cake Roll

berry cake rollalmonds.easy dessert, baking, berries, berry roll, cake, delightsofculinaria.com, dessert, easy recipe, food, quick dessert, recipes, rolls, roulade, russian recipes, summer cake, sweet, teatime-2
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berry cake rollalmonds.easy dessert, baking, berries, berry roll, cake, delightsofculinaria.com, dessert, easy recipe, food, quick dessert, recipes, rolls, roulade, russian recipes, summer cake, sweet, teatime-2

 

This is a quick and tasty berry cake roll recipe that is perfect for summer when berries are in season.Making a berry cake roll that is easy to make,refreshing,and beautiful is simply delightful.It’s tastes really light that you might be tempted to get seconds.

 

Ingredients:

6 eggs

3/4 cup sugar

3/4 cup all purpose flour sifted

 

Cream-

1 package (8 0zs) cream cheese

1 1/2 cup powdered sugar

1 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream

1 teaspoon vanilla

or

1 tablespoon orange liqueur

 

Mix or choice of berries:

sliced strawberries

raspberries

blackberries

blueberries

shredded almonds

 

Directions-

Pre heat oven to 350 degrees.

Line a 10×15 jelly roll pan (large baking sheet) with parchment paper going over the sides of baking sheet.Spray with cooking spray.

In a stand/hand mixer bowl, beat eggs on medium speed while slowly adding sugar.Increase speed to high and beat until eggs are pale and fluffy.

Carefully mix in flour.

Spread the  batter evenly on prepared pan.

Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until cake is golden.

Roll the cake up loosely while hot and let cool completely.

 

Cream:

Beat cream cheese until smooth.Add in powdered sugar and continue to beat until sugar is well combined.Add vanilla or liqueur.

On medium speed gradually pour in heavy whipping cream while slowly increasing the speed as it begins to thicken. Continue to beat on high until cream is fluffy.

 

Assembling:

Carefully remove parchment paper while unrolling the roll.

Spread cream over the roll and scatter your choice of berries over the cream.

Roll the cake and cover with cream.

Top with shredded almonds and decorate with berries and mint.Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

 

Berry Cake Roll

Ingredients

  • Ingredients:
  • 6 eggs
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 3/4 cup all purpose flour sifted
  • Cream-
  • 1 package (80zs) cream cheese
  • 1 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla
  • or
  • 1 tablespoon orange liquor
  • Mix or choice of berries:
  • sliced strawberries
  • raspberries
  • blackberries
  • blueberries
  • shredded almonds

Instructions

  1. Pre heat oven to 350 degrees.
  2. Line a 10x15 jelly roll pan (large baking sheet) with parchment paper going over the sides of baking sheet.Spray with cooking spray.
  3. In a stand/hand mixer bowl, beat eggs on medium speed while slowly adding sugar.Increase speed to high and beat until eggs are pale and fluffy.
  4. Carefully mix in flour.
  5. Spread the batter evenly on prepared pan.
  6. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until cake is golden.
  7. Roll the cake up loosely while hot and let cool completely.
  8. Cream:
  9. Beat cream cheese until smooth.Add in powdered sugar and continue to beat until sugar is well combined.Add vanilla or liqueur.
  10. On medium speed gradually pour in heavy whipping cream while slowly increasing the speed as it begins to thicken. Continue to beat on high until cream is fluffy.
  11. Assembling:
  12. Carefully remove parchment paper while unrolling the roll.
  13. Spread cream over the roll and scatter your choice of berries over the cream.
  14. Roll the cake and cover with cream.
  15. Top with shredded almonds and decorate with berries and mint.Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
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Cherry Clafouti

cherry clafouti-5
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cherry clafouti-5

Cherry Clafouti is a french country-style egg custard dessert slightly similar to quiche.Sweet cherries are covered in pancake-like batter  then baked until puffed and nicely browned.It”s a really quick and easy custard type dessert that has no need to be cooled or stored in a fridge before serving.Clafouti also can be versatile by replacing cherries with any berries,plums, or peaches.It can also be served for breakfast or brunch.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups pitted fresh or canned cherries(drained)

4 eggs

1 1/4 cup milk

1/4 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

pinch of salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon kirsch liquor  (optional)

powdered sugar for dusting

butter for greasing the pan

Directions:

Heat oven to 325F degrees.

Butter a 10 inch round pan (do not use a springform pan or removable tartlet pan).

Arrange cherries evenly on the bottom of a pan.

Whisk eggs and milk together.

Add sugar,vanilla,kirsch(optional),salt and flour.Continue whisking until all lumps are removed.

Pour the custard over cherries and bake for 1hour – 1 hour and 15 minutes.The custard should be lightly browned and firm to touch when done.

Dust with powdered sugar while still warm or cooled.

Cherry Clafouti

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups pitted fresh or canned cherries(drained)
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • pinch of salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon kirsch liquor (optional)
  • powdered sugar for dusting
  • butter for greasing the pan

Instructions

  1. Heat oven to 325F degrees.
  2. Butter a 10 inch round pan (do not use a springform pan or removable tartlet pan).
  3. Arrange cherries evenly on the bottom of a pan.
  4. Whisk eggs and milk together.
  5. Add sugar,vanilla,kirsch(optional),salt and flour.Continue whisking until all lumps are removed.
  6. Pour the custard over cherries and bake for 1hour - 1 hour and 15 minutes.The custard should be lightly browned and firm to touch when done.
  7. Dust with powdered sugar while still warm or cooled.
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Easter Bread (Paska,Kulich) Recipe

Easter bread-paska-kulich
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Easter bread-paska-kulich

Easter bread(paska/kulich) is a Russian traditional classic Easter bread. It’s made of sweet yeast dough mixed in with dried fruit like raisins.This recipe comes from my grandmother (Moms Mom),that passed away long time ago,who was an awesome cook and famous for her borscht recipe.Now I think you can see where I got love for cooking….It passes along the line I guess.

Easter bread is made with lots of egg yolks and butter.Similar to brioche or Italian Panettone.It’s a richer version of sweet bread yet is wonderfully light and soft and sweet.Traditional Easter bread is made in round cylinder type molds.But,really it doesn’t matter what shape it is.I like to use regular bread pan or spring foam pan or even muffin pan.I also made some personal breads using a small round mold from Sur La Table ( .40 cents each or .75 for larger one).So you can get panettone molds or choose any mold /pan you like.This recipe is my favorite.It stays fresh like from day 1 (not dry) for few days for sure.

Ingredients:

10 egg yolks

2 cups warm milk

1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon yeast

1 cup sugar

1 1/2 cup melted butter (3 sticks)

1 tablespoon vanilla

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 tablespoons oil

2 cups + 4 cups canadian flour (highly recommended)*

1 -1 1/2 cup raisins (I prefer jumbo or golden raisins) soaked in hot water for 10 min and drained.

* If you can’t get canadian flour ,your second choice would be bread flour, and third choice all-purpose flour. Most Russian stores and Winco Foods carry Canadian flour.

Glaze:

2 cups powdered sugar

3 tablespoons choice of milk,heavy cream,squeezed lemon juice,or squeezed orange juice

 

Directions:

Combine warm milk with 2 cups flour and yeast.Mix well and set aside covered.

In a stand mixer,whip egg yolks with sugar.

Gradually add vanilla,salt,oil and butter to egg yolks.Add milk and flour mixture to egg yolk and butter.Mix until well combined.

Replace whisk attachment with dough hook attachment.

Add in 4 cups of flour and raisins.

Mix dough well.

Cover dough with plastic cover and towel.

Place the bowl with dough in the warmest place in your house or microwave (don’t turn it on).Let the dough rise(about 2 hours).

Divide dough among all molds and let it rise.(about 20 minutes)

Heat oven to 325 degrees.

Bake for about 30-40 minutes depending on the size of your molds and until the outside is golden brown.

To make glaze:

Combine powdered sugar with milk,cream,lemon juice,or orange juice.

Apply to the tops of easter bread/paska when cooled at room temperature.

Easter bread-paska

Combine warm milk with 2 cups flour and yeast.Mix well and set aside covered.

Easter bread-paska-2

In a stand mixer,whip egg yolks with sugar.

Easter bread-paska-3

Gradually add vanilla,salt and butter to egg yolks.Add milk and flour mixture to egg yolk and butter.Mix until well combined.

 

Easter bread-paska-4

Replace whisk attachment with dough hook attachment.Add in 4-5 cups of flour and raisins.

Easter bread-paska-5

Mix dough well.

Easter bread-paska-6

Cover dough with plastic cover and towel.Place the bowl with dough in the warmest place in your house or microwave (don’t turn it on).Let the dough rise(about 2 hours).

Easter bread-paska-7

Divide dough among all molds filling them half way.Heat oven to 325 degrees.Bake for about 30-40 minutes depending on the size of your molds and until the outside is golden brown.

 

Easter bread-paska-kulich

When cooled at room temperature,remove from molds and apply glaze.Add sprinkles if desired.

Chocolate Creme Brûlée

Chocolate creme brûlée
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Chocolate creme brûlée

 

Still looking for that special sweet treat for your loved one? Chocolate creme brûlée is a divine and luscious romantic  dessert that will be perfect for valentines day or anniversary. It’s one of those very easy and elegant desserts with fancy name and amazing taste.Both chocolate lover and non chocolate lover will enjoy. And if you really dislike chocolate you can check this recipe for classic creme brûlée.

Ingredients:

6 egg yolks

1/3 cup sugar

2 cups heavy whipping cream

1/4 -1/2 cup finely chopped or shredded  dark chocolate( depends on your love for chocolate)

2 tablespoons Kahlua liqueur or any other coffee liqueur

2 ounces espresso or 1 tablespoon instant coffee.

4 tablespoon sugar for topping.

 

Directions:

Heat oven to 325 degrees.

In a saucepan,heat heavy cream until begins to boil.

Beat egg yolks with sugar.

Remove from heat and gradually whisk in chocolate,coffee,and kahlua.

Gradually, by dribbles at first whisk in hot cream mix to egg yolks.

Divide custard among 4 ramekins (if you have smaller ramekins, you might need 6-8 of them).

Place ramekins in large baking dish.

Add enough hot water to pan to come halfway up sides of cups.

Bake until custards are set, about 30-35 minutes.

Remove from water; chill 2 hours.

Preheat broiler.

Sprinkle each custard with 1 tablespoon sugar. Broil until sugar turns golden, watching closely to avoid burning, about 3 minutes.

Refrigerate until custards are set, 1 to 2 hours.

OR

Use a kitchen torch to caramelize sugar instead of using the broiler.

chocolate creme brûlée

 

Chocolate Creme Brûlée

Ingredients

  • 6 egg yolks
  • 1/3 cup sugar
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped or shredded dark chocolate
  • 2 tablespoons Kahlua liqueur or any other coffee liqueur
  • 2 ounces espresso or 1 tablespoon instant coffee.
  • 4 tablespoon sugar for topping.

Instructions

  1. Directions:
  2. Heat oven to 325 degrees.
  3. In a saucepan,heat heavy cream until begins to simmer.
  4. Beat egg yolks with sugar.
  5. Remove from heat and gradually whisk in chocolate,coffee,and kahlua.
  6. Gradually, by dribbles at first whisk in hot cream mix to egg yolks.
  7. Divide custard among 4 ramekins (if you have smaller ramekins, you might need 6-8 of them).
  8. Place ramekins in large baking dish.
  9. Add enough hot water to pan to come halfway up sides of cups.
  10. Bake until custards are set, about 30-35 minutes.
  11. Remove from water; chill 2 hours.
  12. Preheat broiler.
  13. Sprinkle each custard with 1 tablespoon sugar. Broil until sugar turns golden, watching closely to avoid burning, about 3 minutes.
  14. Refrigerate until custards are set, 1 to 2 hours.
  15. OR
  16. Use a kitchen torch to caramelize sugar instead of using the broiler.
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Lemon Layer Cake

Lemon cake
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Lemon cake

The idea of making this lemon layer cake came from my sisters bridal shower back in September ’13.It was when I had to make a cake that had lemon or honey in it.Well… I ended up making both a lemon cake and honey cake. Basically that was our theme because our  sister Sweet-lana loves her tea with lemon and honey as much as one loves their coffee.She’ll have it in her to-go cup everywhere she goes.

For the cake as pictured above I made total of four layers and made more cream by half. Added blueberries inside.

For bridal shower I sliced the layers in half,but it was hard to keep the cake from falling apart. The cake layers are very delicate.

And I used pureed raspberries with sugar(strained) instead of whole raspberries.

 

DSC_3985

 

 

DSC_3994

 

 

Ingredients:

( Cake batter adapted from America’s Test Kitchen)

2 1/4 cups flour*

1/4 cup cornstarch*

1 cup whole milk,at room temperature

6 large egg whites,at room temperature.

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 3/4 cups granulated sugar

4 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon salt

12 tablespoons unsalted butter at room temperature.

lemon zest of 2 lemons

* you can substitute these two ingredients of cake flour

 

Cream for 1 (2 layer ) cake:

1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream

8 oz. cream cheese

1  1/4 cup powdered sugar

1 tablespoon squeezed lemon juice

1-2 tablespoons limoncello liqueur

zest from one lemon

Syrup:

1/2 cup hot water

3 tablespoons sugar

3 tablespoons limoncello

2 tablespoons lemon juice.

-Combine all ingredients and let cool.

 

Fresh blueberries,raspberries or strawberries.

Whole or pureed with some sugar.

 

Direction for cake-

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Sift flour with cornstarch 3 times and set aside

In a large measuring cup,whisk together the milk,egg whites,lemon zest and vanilla.

In the bowl of a standing mixer fitted with the paddle attachment,mix together the flour,sugar,baking powder and salt at med-low speed.

With the mixer running,add the butter pieces one at a time until the mixture resembles fine,even crumbs.

Stop the mixer and about 1/2 cup of the wet ingredients.

Beat the batter at medium speed until it is pale and fluffy,about 1 1/2minutes.

With the mixer running on med-low pour in  the rest of the wet ingredients,then crank the speed back up to medium and beat for 30 seconds more.Scrape down the bowl and beat for 30 more seconds.

Divide the batter equally among the two (9 inch) cake pans and smooth the tops.

Bake for 23-25 minutes,or until a toothpick come out clean-do not over bake.

Let the cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes,then remove the cakes from pans,and cool completely.

 

Cream-

In a mixer with whisk attachment ,whip cream cheese with powdered sugar.

Scrape the bowl and add lemon juice,zest, and limoncello.Whip again until ingredients are well incorporated.

On med-low speed gradually pour heavy whipping cream,bringing the speed higher gradually.

Whip the cream until stiff peaks.

 

Assembling-

Pierce first cake layer with toothpick or fork.

Pour/spray syrup on the cake.

Spread a good amount of frosting.

Arrange preferred berries on top of frosting.

Place the other cake on top of berries.

Pierce the cake and pour/spray syrup.

Spread frosting all over cake and decorate as desired.

 

Lemon Layer Cake

Ingredients

  • ( Cake batter adapted from America's Test Kitchen)
  • 2 1/4 cups flour*
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch*
  • 1 cup whole milk,at room temperature
  • 6 large egg whites,at room temperature.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 12 tablespoons unsalted butter at room temperature.
  • lemon zest of 2 lemons
  • * you can substitute these two ingredients of cake flour
  • Cream for 1 (2 layer ) cake:
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 8 oz. cream cheese
  • 1 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 tablespoon squeezed lemon juice
  • 1-2 tablespoons limoncello liqueur
  • zest from one lemon
  • Syrup:
  • 1/2 cup hot water
  • 3 tablespoons sugar
  • 3 tablespoons limoncello
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice.
  • -Combine all ingredients and let cool.
  • Fresh blueberries,raspberries or strawberries.
  • Whole or pureed with some sugar.

Instructions

  1. Direction for cake-
  2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees
  3. Sift flour with cornstarch 3 times and set aside
  4. In a large measuring cup,whisk together the milk,egg whites,lemon zest and vanilla.
  5. In the bowl of a standing mixer fitted with the paddle attachment,mix together the flour,sugar,baking powder and salt at med-low speed.
  6. With the mixer running,add the butter pieces one at a time until the mixture resembles fine,even crumbs.
  7. Stop the mixer and about 1/2 cup of the wet ingredients.
  8. Beat the batter at medium speed until it is pale and fluffy,about 1 1/2minutes.
  9. With the mixer running on med-low pour in the rest of the wet ingredients,then crank the speed back up to medium and beat for 30 seconds more.Scrape down the bowl and beat for 30 more seconds.
  10. Divide the batter equally among the two (9 inch) cake pans and smooth the tops.
  11. Bake for 23-25 minutes,or until a toothpick come out clean-do not over bake.
  12. Let the cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes,then remove the cakes from pans,and cool completely.
  13. Cream-
  14. In a mixer with whisk attachment ,whip cream cheese with powdered sugar.
  15. Scrape the bowl and add lemon juice,zest, and limoncello.Whip again until ingredients are well incorporated.
  16. On med-low speed gradually pour heavy whipping cream,bringing the speed higher gradually.
  17. Whip the cream until stiff peaks.
  18. Assembling-
  19. Pierce first cake layer with toothpick or fork.
  20. Pour/spray syrup on the cake.
  21. Spread a good amount of frosting.
  22. Arrange preferred berries on top of frosting.
  23. Place the other cake on top of berries.
  24. Pierce the cake and pour/spray syrup.
  25. Spread frosting all over cake and decorate as desired.
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Russian Glazed Cookies “Pryaniki”

pryaniki
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 pryaniki

“Pryaniki”are Russian Glazed cookies that existed since 9th century.Although, there are many types of pryaniki,this is just one of them.They are soft,delicious and will stay fresh not only for one day. Especially kids love them and it’s a great treat to share some with your coworkers,friends or family.If you like spiced cookies you can add cinnamon,nutmeg,all spice, or cardamom to the dough mixture.

Ingredients-

2 large egg yolks

2 cups sugar

2 cups sour cream (16oz)

8 tablespoons(1 stick) butter room temp.

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon Baker’s Ammonia or Ammonia Bicarbonate*

1 tablespoon vinegar

4 -4 1/2 cups flour (I used canadian)**

1 tablespoon peppermint,vanilla,or almond extract (optional)

*If you can’t find it, sub in baking powder.

** I did experiment with canadian whole wheat flour it work great.Spelt and whole wheat pastry flour will work too.

Glaze-

2 cups powdered sugar

2 large egg whites

1 teaspoon peppermint extract(optional)

Direction-

1.Whisk  egg yolks with sugar.

2.Add  butter and sour cream and mix using a stand or hand mixer.

3.In a small bowl combine baking soda and ammonium(or baking powder) with vinegar. Add to the mixture.

4.Add preferred flavoring  if desired.

5.Gradually add flour and mix until well combined.

6.The dough will be sticky.Cover with plastic wrap.

7.Refrigerate for 2 hours.

8.Heat oven to 350 degrees.

9.Apply oil to your hands.

10.Roll dough into 1 inch balls and arrange them on a lined baking sheet.

11. Bake for 15-17 minutes.

Glaze-

12.Beat egg whites with powdered sugar and peppermint extract(if desired)

13.Apply glaze to pryaniki while still hot/warm.You can dip or mix them into to glaze also,then spread glaze evenly using your fingers.

14.Arrange on a wax paper to dry.

15.Enjoy with your favorite tea.

 

Russian Glazed Cookies “Pryaniki”

Ingredients

  • 2 large egg yolks
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 2 cups sour cream (16oz)
  • 8 tablespoons(1 stick) butter room temp.
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon Baker's Ammonia or Ammonia Bicarbonate*
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar
  • 4 -4 1/2 cups flour (I used canadian)**
  • 1 tablespoon peppermint,vanilla,or almond extract (optional)
  • *If you can't find it, sub in baking powder.
  • ** I did experiment with canadian whole wheat flour it work great.Spelt and whole wheat pastry flour will work too.
  • Glaze-
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 large egg whites
  • 1 teaspoon peppermint extract(optional)

Instructions

  1. 1.Whisk egg yolks with sugar.
  2. 2.Add butter and sour cream and mix using a stand or hand mixer.
  3. 3.In a small bowl combine baking soda and ammonium(or baking powder) with vinegar. Add to the mixture.
  4. 4.Add preferred flavoring if desired.
  5. 5.Gradually add flour and mix until well combined.
  6. 6.The dough will be sticky.Cover with plastic wrap.
  7. 7.Refrigerate for 2 hours.
  8. 8.Heat oven to 350 degrees.
  9. 9.Apply oil to your hands.
  10. 10.Roll dough into 1 inch balls and arrange them on a lined baking sheet.
  11. 11. Bake for 15-17 minutes.
  12. Glaze-
  13. 12.Beat egg whites with powdered sugar and peppermint extract(if desired)
  14. 13.Apply glaze to pryaniki while still hot/warm.You can dip or mix them into to glaze also,then spread glaze evenly using your fingers.
  15. 14.Arrange on a wax paper to dry.
  16. 15.Enjoy with your favorite tea.
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Hazelnut Cake Truffles

Hazelnut Cake truffles
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Hazelnut Cake truffles

Desserts or treats like truffles are always  special on holidays like Christmas, New years and Valentines.They are so adorable and decadent.These hazelnut cake truffles are a heavenly bite-size chocolate treats with a lightly crunchy and creamy soft cake inside.

Ingredients:

3 eggs

1 cup sugar

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 cup buttermilk

½ can condensed milk

2 tablespoons cocoa powder

2 cups flour

Directions for cake :

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Using mixer beat together eggs and sugar until pale in color.

Add baking soda to buttermilk and mix it well.

Add buttermilk,cocoa and condensed milk  to egg mixture and mix on medium speed until well combined.

Add the flour and mix on low. Transfer the batter to a 9×13 greased baking pan and bake approximately 30-35 minutes depending on your oven.

Let cake cool completely.

Cream:

1 can dulce de leche (cooked condensed milk)

2 sticks butter at room temperature

2 tbsp cocoa powder

1/2 cup hazelnuts

1-2 tablespoons cognac or brandy (optional)

3 tbsp. nutella (optional)

Coating:

crushed Chocolate Waffles

melted chocolate or truffles

melted white chocolate

Cream directions:

Whip butter until pale and fluffy.

Add in dulce de leche and cocoa.

Whip all the ingredients until well combined.

 

Break/tear cake in to small pieces and place it in the mixing bowl.

Using a blender,crush hazelnuts.

Add cream and hazelnuts to the broken cake.

Mix/beat until all ingredients are well incorporated and creamed.

Form the cake mixture in to a 1 inch balls.

Cover the balls with your choice of coating.I used chocolate waffles from Trader Joes.

 

Hazelnut Cake Truffles

Ingredients

  • Cake:
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • ½ can condensed milk
  • 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
  • 2 cups flour
  • Cream:
  • 1 can dulce de leche (cooked condensed milk)
  • 2 sticks butter at room temperature
  • 2 tbsp cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup hazelnuts
  • 1-2 tablespoons cognac or brandy (optional)
  • 3 tbsp. Nutella (optional)
  • Coating:
  • crushed Chocolate Waffles
  • melted chocolate or truffles
  • melted white chocolate

Instructions

  1. Directions for cake :
  2. Using mixer beat together eggs and sugar until pale in color.
  3. Add baking soda to buttermilk and mix it well.
  4. Add buttermilk,cocoa and condensed milk to egg mixture and mix on medium speed until well combined.
  5. Add the flour and mix on low. Transfer the batter to a 9x13 greased baking pan and bake approximately 30-35 minutes depending on your oven.
  6. Let cake cool completely.
  7. Cream directions:
  8. Whip butter until pale and fluffy.
  9. Add in dulce de leche and cocoa(cognac,Nutella).
  10. Whip all the ingredients until well combined.
  11. Break/tear cake in to small pieces and place it in the mixing bowl.
  12. Using a blender,crush hazelnuts.
  13. Add cream and hazelnuts to the broken cake.
  14. Mix/beat until all ingredients are well incorporated and creamed.
  15. Form the cake mixture in to a 1 inch balls.
  16. Cover the balls with your choice of coating.I used chocolate waffles from Trader Joes.
  17. Refrigerate.
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Rogaliki- Filled pastry cookies

Rogaliki
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Rogaliki

Rogaliki are soft,sweet,flaky Russian pastries that can be referred to cookies with variety of fillings and drenched in powdery white sugar.They are very simple and quick to make.Dough is very delicate and not too doughy.You can actually taste the filling.These little pastries treats always bring good memories of my childhood years.We would make them with mom all the time.

2 cups sour cream(400 grams)

3 1/2 stick butter (400 grams)room temperature

1 cup sugar

1 tablespoon vinegar

1/2 teaspoon salt

6 cups all purpose or whole wheat pastry flour

 

Fillings-

Crushed walnuts with sugar

jam

raisins

cooked poppy seeds*with sugar and crushed walnuts(walnuts optional)

*grind poppy seeds using meat grinder after they are cooked.

 

In a mixing bowl combine  flour,salt, and sugar.Cut in butter until mixture is coarse and crumbly.Mix in the rest of ingredients and place it in fridge for 2 hours.

photo 1

 Divide the dough 6 portions. Roll the one portion at a time on a well floured surface.

photo 2

Using a pastry cutter or knife,cut 8-12 triangles.(depending on what size you like them to be)

Place desired filling on the edge of a triangle.

photo 3

Roll it up and place it on prepared baking pan with parchment paper.

photo 4

Bake for 15-17 minutes on 350 degrees

Let them cool.Add powdered sugar to a bowl and in several batches, throw rogaliki in the bowl and mix until they are fully covered in sugar.

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