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    Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls

    Note: There are many varieties and blends of gluten-free flours; gluten-free all-purpose flour is different from a gluten-free cup-for- cup substitution, which does not work well for yeasted products. For this recipe, it’s important to use gluten-free all-purpose flour with a base of rice flour. LEGGI TUTTO

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    Orange Crush Cake

    This Orange Crush Cake is a blast from the past that brings back all the nostalgia with a zesty twist. It’s made with everyone’s favorite fizzy orange drink – Orange Crush soda.

    You may wonder why I’ve styled this cake on astroturf with a game day theme. Well, there’s little more to say than, “It’s football time in Tennessee!” Now, I’m not much of a football game watcher, but my dad and father-in-law are Volunteers for Life (#VFL). And if your blood runs deep orange, you’ll love this cake as much as they do. For non-football fans? You’ll still be all in for this one. It’s a moist, tender cake with the bright, nostalgic flavor of Orange Crush, and the best part? It’s a shortcut recipe! Thanks to white cake mix as a base, it’s a low-effort, high-reward dessert that’s perfect for your next game day or any day.

    The exact origin of Orange Crush Cake is a bit murky, but it appears to have gained popularity in the late 1970s and 1980s, during the height of the “soda cake” craze. During this time, home bakers experimented using soda in cakes and other desserts (remember 7-UP cake?). From there, The combination of cake mixes and soda became a fun way to create light, airy cakes with minimal effort. Orange Crush gained popularity for its bright orange citrusy flavor.

    Liquid Ingredients
    Full disclosure here – this cake uses prepackaged convenience ingredients. This is usually not my style because I love my bakes scratch-made. However, I’m also a huge fan of nostalgic recipes. So I do make concessions when appropriate. This is one of those times.
    First, stir together, eggs, oil, a little orange flavored Jell-O, and Orange Crush soda. All the ingredients should be room temperature. Don’t let this mixture stand for too long, or the gelatin will start to congeal.

    Ready-Made Dry Ingredients
    Next, whisk together one package of white cake mix (dry mix) and one small box of instant vanilla pudding (also the dry mix). Immediately pour the orange mixture into the dry ingredients. Combine on low speed with an electric mixer. I used a hand mixer.
    I also bumped up the orange hue with a smidge of orange food color. Totally optional, but it has to be bright for Big Orange fans.

    Bake at 350°F
    Pour the batter into a greased bundt pan and bake for 50-55 minutes.
    I favor flour-based baking spray for greasing bundt pans, but if you don’t have any, then grease as flour as usual.

    Cool Before Frosting
    Turn the cake out onto a wire rack. The exterior should be well-browned, thanks to all those sugars that caramelize during baking.

    Orange Cream Cheese Frosting
    Cover the entire cake with soft and fluffy cream cheese frosting. It’s flavored with orange extract and vanilla extract, so the flavor is reminiscent of an orange creamsicle.

    Easy Decorating with Sprinkles
    This step is optional, but orange confetti sprinkles feel celebratory. So, this cake could be served as a victory dessert, or a consolation – if things go awry on field. You can find the orange confetti I used right here. I also used white nonpareils for a ‘bubbly’ appearance – a nod to the fizzy orange soda in this recipe.

    I’m so pleased to tell you how soft and tender this cake is. No doubt from that instant pudding in the mix – it always makes bundt cakes fluffier, more tender, with soft texture. I was suspicious of using it as an ingredient at first, but when I used it in this Caribbean Rum Cake my mind was changed.

    This is such an easy cake to make, which means you can throw it together in no time flat. It has a nice orange flavor without being overwhelming. But for me, the appeal is all in the texture. This is not a tough or dense pound cake bundt – it’s very soft, and a pleasure to eat and share!

    Related recipe: Orange Pound Cake

    Orange Crush Cake

    Heather Baird

    This retro Orange Crush Cake is a delicious throwback, featuring the unmistakable flavor of orange soda baked right into the batter. Made in a classic bundt pan, this cake has a light, tender crumb with a sweet citrus zing. The orange cream cheese icing adds a delicious creamy note.This recipe is a true 1980’s gem that uses boxed convenience mixes, such as white cake mix, Jell-O, and instant pudding mix – so add those to your grocery list along with Orange Crush soda!The cake mix, Jell-O, and instant pudding mix are all added to the recipe as dry ingredients. See video for clarity.

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #5A822B; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-33 stop { stop-color: #5A822B; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-50 stop { stop-color: #5A822B; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-66 stop { stop-color: #5A822B; }Rate This Recipe

    Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 55 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

    Course DessertCuisine American

    Servings 10

    EquipmentStandard size bundt pan
    Ingredients  Cake4 large eggs at room temperature3/4 cup vegetable oil2 tablespoons orange Jell-O3/4 cup orange soda at room temperature13.25 oz. white cake mix 1 box4 oz. instant vanilla pudding mix 1 small boxOrange food color optionalCream cheese frosting1/4 cup unsalted butter4 oz. cream cheese at room temperature1 cup confectioners’ sugar1/2 cup heavy cream1 teaspoon orange extract1 teaspoon vanilla extract2 tablespoons orange confetti sprinkles optional1 tablespoon white nonpareils optional
    Instructions CakePreheat the oven to 350°F. Coat a bundt pan with flour-based baking spray or grease and flour the pan.In a large measuring pitcher with a pour spout (or a large mixing bowl) combine the eggs, oil, and orange Jell-O. Mix well with an electric mixer until combined. Add the orange crush soda. Mix well. Don’t let this mixture stand for too long, because the gelatin will start to set over time. Get right to the dry ingredients.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry cake mix and dry pudding mix. Pour in the orange crush mixture and beat on low speed until well combined.Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick tester inserted comes out clean.Turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.Cream cheese frostingIn the bowl of an electric mixer, combine the butter and cream cheese. Beat until well combined. Add the confectioners’ sugar and beat until just combined. Pour in heavy cream as you mix on low speed, then beat on high speed until billowy and fluffy. Beat in the extracts.Cover the cooled cake with the frosting; add sprinkles, if using. Store the cake in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature for best flavor and texture.
    NotesCan I use a different orange soda?
    Yes, but using Orange Crush is what gives this cake its authentic retro flavor. Feel free to try other sodas if you’re curious, though!
    How long does the cake stay fresh?
    Stored in an airtight container, this cake will stay fresh for about 3-4 days.
    Can I make this cake ahead of time?
    Absolutely. You can make the cake a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. It keeps well. 

    Keyword instant vanilla pudding mix, orange crush bundt cake, orange crush cake, orange crush soda, orange extract, orange Jell-O, TN Vols Cake, white cake mix

    You may also enjoy: LEGGI TUTTO

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    Baking School In-Depth: Khachapuri

    Stemming from the Georgian words “khacho” (cheese curds) and “puri” (bread), khachapuri (pronounced “hatch-ah-POO-ree”) is a beloved cheese-filled bread and the national dish of Georgia. There are different versions of khachapuris across different regions of Georgia, each with its own story to tell. It’s often said that there are as many recipes for khachapuris as […] LEGGI TUTTO

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    Mexican Street Corn Bread with Lime Butter

    Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Spray an 8½x4½-inch loaf pan with baking spray with flour. Line pan with parchment paper, letting excess extend over sides of pan.In a medium bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, chili powder, salt, baking soda, and cumin.In a large bowl, whisk together sour cream, oil, milk, and eggs. Add cornmeal mixture, and whisk until almost combined. Stir in corn, queso fresco, cilantro, and garlic until well combined. Spread batter into prepared pan.Bake until golden brown and a wooden pick inserted in center comes out with a few moist crumbs, 40 to 50 minutes, covering with foil during final 10 minutes of baking to prevent excess browning. Let cool in pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Using excess parchment as handles, remove from pan; serve warm with Lime Butter. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. LEGGI TUTTO

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    Lemon-Poppy Seed Doughnuts

    These light and fluffy doughnuts are bursting with the bright flavor of lemon and the satisfying crunch of poppy seeds. A simple lemon glaze adds the perfect finishing touch. Lemon-Poppy Seed Doughnuts Proceed with Do-It-All Dough recipe, adding poppy seeds and lemon zest with yeast. Cut 8 (5-inch) squares of parchment paper, and place on […] LEGGI TUTTO

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    Classic Scotcharoos Recipe

    Quick and easy, classic Scotcharoos! These chewy bar treats have a peanut butter-rice crispy cereal base and a butterscotch-chocolate topping. A dessert that’s as irresistible as it is simple to make!

    Here’s a retro recipe that stands the test of time – classic Scotcharoos! If you’ve never had them before, they’re like a rice crispy treat made with peanut butter topped with a thin layer of melted chocolate and butterscotch. The recipe was developed in the 1960’s, and it was printed on the backs of cereal boxes. While you’ll no longer find it on your box of crispy rice cereal, you will find it right here. These bars are known for being quick and easy. My husband loves them, and the entire recipe from start to finish takes about 30 minutes to make.

    The original recipe is attributed to Kellogg’s – which makes complete sense because they are the company behind Rice Krispies cereal. Like the ubiquitous, marshmallowy Rice Krispies Treats recipe, Scotcharoos were a promotional effort to inspire new and creative uses for the cereal. I’m not sure why they’re not as popular as original Krispies Treats – I think they’re better!
    Easy as these are to make, there are a couple of important things to remember while preparing them. Let’s get into it.

    Peanut Butter Coating
    Into a medium saucepan, place brown sugar, corn syrup, peanut butter, and a little unsalted butter. Cook over medium heat until melted. Important thing #1: DO NOT BOIL. Stir everything together as it melts. When it all looks smooth, cook until bubbles start simmering around the edge of the saucepan, then remove it. You can see this action in the video just above the recipe card. Stir in vanilla extract and salt.
    If you’re one of those people who can’t stand the thought of using corn syrup in any recipe, then there are some alternatives. However, these subs will change the flavor and texture slightly. Honey, golden syrup, and brown rice syrup could all work as a binder and sweetener here. Light corn syrup – although much maligned – is a natural syrup from corn and a useful ingredient in baking, pastry, and candy-making. I use it when appropriate – classic Scotcharoos use corn syrup for that perfect chew.

    Coat the Cereal
    Place 6 cups of crispy rice cereal in your largest mixing bowl. Then, pour in the melted peanut butter mixture. Mix well, turning the cereal over repeatedly with a rubber spatula to coat all of the cereal pieces.

    Into a 13×9 Pan
    Line a 13×9-inch pan with foil or parchment paper, and pour in the coated cereal. Important thing #2: PACK LIGHTLY, NOT TIGHTLY. Spread the cereal evenly then tamp it down with the back of a rubber spatula. Don’t pack it down under flat palms. This will compress the cereal and it will lose its airy puffed texture. It’s also a little harder to remove from the pan once set – a light touch is needed here!

    Butterscotch Swirl
    To swirl, or not to swirl? Well, that’s totally up to you. The OG ‘back of the box’ recipe instructs a simple melting of both chocolate chips and butterscotch chips stirred together. This is the easiest way to go. You’ll have what looks like a chocolate layer on top, with surprise butterscotch flavor incorporated.
    But if you’d like to add a little visual pizzazz, melt the chips separately (the microwave is good for this). Mix about 1/3 of the melted butterscotch into the melted chocolate; spread onto the peanut butter cereal layer. Then transfer the remaining butterscotch chips to a piping bag or a zip top bag. Snip a hole in the end and drizzle on the melted butterscotch. Swirl together using a skewer or butter knife. (See video for this action.)

    Chill Until Set
    Refrigerate the bars for about 30 minutes, or until the top is no longer shiny. It should be matte and the solid block of cereal should lift easily from the pan.

    Cut into 24 squares using a large, sharp chef’s knife. In between each slice, I warmed my knife in a glass of hot water, wiped dry, then cut. It’s an extra step but it makes for clean edges on the Scotcharoos.

    I can’t believe it’s taken me so long to post these here! The name alone conjures a lot of nostalgic feelings – perhaps most for those in the Midwest, where this recipe was – and remains – at its peak popularity. For some reason, they were not as popular in the south, and as a southerner (eyeing all that peanut butter) that surprises me. Enjoy!

    Related recipe: Salty-Sweet Peanut Butter Marshmallow Pretzel Treats

    Scotcharoos Recipe

    Heather Baird

    This quick and easy dessert bar recipe is nostalgic favorite. Created in the 1960’s by Kellogg’s, it has remained a favorite for decades. Made with crisp rice cereal, peanut butter, chocolate chips and butterscotch chips, it is reminiscent of Rice Krispies treats – but better! See recipe notes or substitutions.

    #wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #5A822B; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-33 stop { stop-color: #5A822B; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-50 stop { stop-color: #5A822B; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-66 stop { stop-color: #5A822B; }Rate This Recipe

    Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 5 minutes mins30 minutes hands off/chill time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 45 minutes mins

    Course DessertCuisine American

    Servings 24

    EquipmentRubber spatulaAluminum foil or parchment paper
    Ingredients US CustomaryMetric 6 cups Rice Krispies cereal3/4 cup light brown sugar lightly packed1 1/4 cups creamy peanut butter such as JIF1 cup light corn syrup see note for substitutions2 tablespoons unsalted butter room temperature1 teaspoon vanilla extract1/2 teaspoon fine grain sea salt1 cup semisweet chocolate chips1 cup butterscotch chips2 tablespoons sunflower oil or vegetable oil
    Instructions Line a 13×9 inch baking pan with foil or parchment paper that overhangs two sides. If using foil, spritz lightly with nonstick cooking spray or lightly butter.Place the 6 cups of rice cereal in your largest mixing bowl; set aside.In a medium sauce pan, combine the brown sugar, peanut butter, corn syrup, and butter. Cook over medium heat until all the ingredients are melted together. When the sugar is melted and the mixture is smooth, cook just until bubbles start to simmer around the edges of the pan, about 2-4 minutes. Do not bring this mixture to a full boil or the bars will be too hard.Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Stir well with a rubber spatula.Pour the mixture into the bowl of rice cereal and mix well with a rubber spatula, turning the cereal over repeatedly to completely coat all of the rice.Pour the mixture into the prepared pan, spread evenly and tamp down lightly using the back of the rubber spatula. Do not pack firmly! Just lightly press as to not compress the texture of the cereal.Place the semisweet chips and butterscotch chips in two separate microwave-safe bowl. Add 1 tablespoon of oil into each of the bowls. Microwave each bowl at 100% power in 30 second increments until the mixture is melted and smooth. The oil will thin the texture of the chips, making them easier to swirl together.Pour about 1/3 of the melted butterscotch into the melted chocolate; stir to combine well. Spread this mixture onto the warm cereal mixture in the pan.Place the remaining melted butterscotch into a piping bag or a zip top bag with a hole snipped in the end. Pipe lines of butterscotch lengthwise on top of the chocolate layer. Use a skewer or a knife to swirl the butterscotch and chocolate mixture together. (See video for visual.)Transfer the bars to the refrigerator to set for 30-45 minutes.Remove the bars from the pan with the overhanging liner. Cut into 24 pieces. Store airtight. Bars will keep at room temperature for about 5 days.
    NotesSkip the Swirl: For an easy topping, simply combine the semisweet and butterscotch chips in a large microwave-safe bowl. (Omit oil.) Heat at 100% power in 30 second increments until melted with no lumps. Spread over the bars.
    Corn Syrup Alternatives: I’ve seen others that have had success with honey, golden syrup, and brown rice syrup in this recipe, but I have not tested them in my own kitchen. Flavor and texture will vary from the original.
     

    Keyword 13×9, butterscotch chips, classic dessert bars, creamy peanut butter, dessert bars, no bake dessert, retro recipe, Rice Krispies cereal, Scotcharoos, semisweet chocolate chips

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    Black Forest Tiramisu

    This Black Forest Tiramisu combines rich chocolate, tart cherries, and creamy layers into one easy-to-make dessert – perfect for Oktoberfest!

    Happy Oktoberfest to all who celebrate! This year the festivities run from September 21st through October 6th, so there’s still plenty of celebrate with good food, good drinks, and good company. While beer might take center stage, the food is just as important. Traditional Bavarian treats like pretzels, sausages, and schnitzels are everywhere, but let’s not forget dessert!
    This recipe blends the iconic flavors of Black Forest Cake—cherries, chocolate, and cream—with some traditional elements of tiramisu. But instead of sticking to just coffee, this confection ups the ante with cherry-espresso soaked ladyfingers. It’s layered with mascarpone cream, sour cherries, and a rich chocolate ganache. Top it off with chocolate curls (or shavings, if you’re short on time), and you’ve got a treat that’s perfect for Oktoberfest – or any fall gathering.

    Black Forest Cake, or Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, is one of Germany’s most beloved desserts. (Note: Here’s my trusty Classic Black Forest Cake Recipe, which I make all the time!) Traditionally, it’s made with layers of chocolate cake, whipped cream, cherries, and a splash of kirsch (a cherry brandy). The combination of rich chocolate and tart cherries creates a flavor pairing that’s hard to beat. I wanted to take those flavors and give them a new twist. You’ll still get all the cherry, chocolate, and cream notes you love from Black Forest Cake, but in a no-bake dessert that’s easy to assemble in an 8×8 pan.

    Make the Ganache
    This recipe has ribbons of chocolate ganache running through the layers. Make this first so it can cool a little before using it on chilled cream.
    Begin with 1/2 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of chocolate chips. Stir them together briefly in a microwave-safe bowl and heat at 100% power for about 1 minute. Or until the cream is very hot and steaming but not boiling. Let the mixture stand for about 1 minute, then blend it together until a smooth shiny ganache forms.
    Then, stir in 1 tablespoon of Kirsch liqueur; set aside to cool. I used my Homemade Cherry Liqueur which really amplifies the cherry flavor. (It’s so easy to make, and bottled, makes wonderful holiday gifts!) I use it in all kinds of baking and pastry recipes. Or, if you’d like to omit the liqueur completely, replace it with 1 tablespoon of cherry juice from the jar of cherries we’re using in the recipe (more on this in a bit).

    Make the Mascarpone Cream
    Mascarpone cream is a traditional tiramisu component, and it’s so easy to make. Whip heavy cream in a bowl while gradually adding granulated sugar. When it thickens a little, add in some more cherry liqueur (or cherry juice) and beat until combined. Then, add room temperature mascarpone cream to the mixture and whip until thick and fluffy. It’s that easy!

    Cherry Espresso Soak
    This may seem an odd flavor duo, but it works! First, you’ll need a 24 oz. jar of pitted sour cherries, such as sweetened Morello cherries in light syrup. The ingredients on the label should be: sour cherries, sugar, water. I used Marco Polo Pitted Sour Cherries.
    Pour 1/2 cup of the juice from the jar into a shallow dish. Add in 1 cup of room temperature brewed espresso or strongly brewed coffee and stir well. Add in 1 tablespoon of cherry liqueur, or just omit it if you’re avoiding alcohol.

    Start Building
    Now that all the components are ready, it’s time to start assembling! At this point I realized all of my 8×8 pans look boring – but even so, this dessert still turned out pretty! But if you have a fancy ceramic 8×8 dish, now’s the time to use it.
    Quickly dip the bottoms of each lady finger in the cherry-espresso liquid and line the bottom of the pan with them. Don’t let them swim around; just a quick dip. You may have to trim some of the lady fingers short to get an even layer in the pan.

    Cream and Ganache Layers
    Next, spread 1/3 of the mascarpone cream over the lady fingers evenly. Then, drizzle on half of the ganache; again, spread evenly.

    Repeat the Layers
    Add half of the cherries from the jar on top of the ganache and tamp down with the back of a spoon. Repeat the layers of lady fingers, 1/3 of the cream, the ganache, and the remaining cherries. Top the dessert with the remaining 1/3 of mascarpone cream.

    Chocolate Shavings or Curls
    Finish the top with homemade chocolate curls for an extra touch of fancy. But if that feels like too much effort, then chocolate shavings are just as pretty and give the same delicious payoff. A third option for a topping would be a dusting of cocoa powder. Whatever suits your mood or time constraints.

    Cherries on Top (Or Not!)
    If you can find fresh cherries at the market, then a few on top will look picture-perfect. But they’re not always available, and this dessert is perfectly fine without.

    Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours, so the lady fingers will soften and become cake-like. Overnight is better if time allows.

    Black Forest Tiramisu is such a delicious dessert, and unbelievably easy to make – really! There’s no baking, just some whipping and assembling. You can spoon it out of the dish with a big server, but it slices beautifully when it’s well-chilled (as shown above).
    I hope you love this fun fusion of German and Italian cuisine as much as I do.
    Related recipe: Throw the Ultimate Backyard Oktoberfest Party with a Feast of German Fare

    Black Forest Tiramisu (No-Bake)

    Heather Baird

    This Black Forest Tiramisu combines cherry-espresso soaked ladyfingers with rich mascarpone cream, tart sour cherries, and a luscious layer of chocolate ganache. You’ll need a 24 oz. jar of sweetened Morello or other sour cherries in light syrup for the filling. To finish, top with either chocolate curls or easy chocolate shavings. See recipe notes for these instructions.Brew espresso or strong coffee ahead of time. It needs to be room temperature before using.

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    Prep Time 20 minutes minsHands off, 3-4 hours chill time 3 hours hrsTotal Time 3 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

    Course DessertCuisine German, Italian

    Servings 12

    EquipmentElectric mixer8×8 inch baking dish
    Ingredients US CustomaryMetric Chocolate ganache1 cup chocolate chips1/2 cup heavy cream1 tablespoon cherry liqueur or cherry juice from the jarMascarpone cream1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream1/3 cup granulated sugar1 tablespoon cherry liqueur or cherry juice from the jar8 oz. mascarpone cheese at room temperatureCherry-espresso soak1/2 cup cherry juice from the jar of sour cherries1 cup cold espresso or cold strongly brewed coffee1 tablespoon cherry liqueur optionalAssembly1 package crisp lady fingers 24 cookies24 oz. jar sour cherries in light syrupChocolate curls or shavings see recipe notes3-4 fresh cherries with stems optional
    Instructions Chocolate ganacheIn a medium microwave-safe bowl combine the chocolate chips and heavy cream. Stir until chips are coated with the cream. Microwave at 100% power for 1 minute, or until the cream is hot and steaming but not boiling.Allow the mixture to stand for 1 minute, then whisk together until a shiny ganache forms. Stir in the cherry liqueur or cherry juice. Set aside to cool slightly while you make the mascarpone cream.Mascarpone creamAdd the whipping cream to the bowl of an electric mixer and beat on medium speed while gradually adding in the granulated sugar. When the mixture thickens slightly, beat in the cherry liqueur or cherry juice. Add the room temperature mascarpone cheese. Beat until thick and fluffy.Cherry-espresso soakCombine the cherry juice and espresso in a shallow dish. I used a pie plate.Stir in the cherry liqueur if using.AssemblyDip one side of each lady finger into the cherry-espresso soak and line the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish. You may need to trim some of the lady fingers with a serrated knife to fit in an even layer.Top the lady fingers with 1/3 of the mascarpone cream. Smooth evenly.Top the mascarpone cream with half of the chocolate ganache. Remove half of the cherries from the jar and pat dry with paper towels. Add them on top of the ganache; tamp down slightly.Repeat layers of dipped lady fingers, 1/3 of the cream, remaining ganache and remaining cherries (patted dry). Top with the remaining 1/3 mascarpone cream and spread from the center outward creating swirls with your spatula. This cream layer doesn’t have to completely cover the top. Garnish with chocolate curls or shavings. (See recipe notes for instructions.) Refrigerate for at least 3-4 hours, or overnight (recommended).Add fresh cherries with stems to the middle of the dessert just before serving, if desired.
    NotesHow to make chocolate curls: Melt 1 cup of chocolate chips at 30 second intervals in the microwave; stir until smooth. Pour onto cookie sheet and spread evenly with an offset spatula. Place in refrigerator for 5-7 minutes, or until the chocolate is firm and has a matte appearance.
    Remove from refrigerator and let stand for a few minutes (3-5ish) at room temperature. With a small, sharp spatula, begin scraping chocolate at one edge in a thin strip. If chocolate breaks into pieces it is too cold, so allow it to stand a few minutes more at room temp. Chocolate should curl easily as you run your spatula under the chocolate and down the length of the cookie sheet. This may take a few attempts – everyone’s room temperature and humidity conditions will differ. Place curls in a small bowl and store in refrigerator until ready for use. 
    How to make chocolate shavings:  Place a block or bar of chocolate in the freezer, and when it’s good and cold use a vegetable peeler to shave the edge of it onto a plate. Use the plate to transfer the shavings to the top of the dessert; fingers will melt the thin pieces of chocolate.
    Top with cocoa powder: Instead of chocolate curls or shavings,  you could opt for the traditional tiramisu topping – a dusting of unsweet cocoa powder. Sieve 2 tablespoons over the top cream layer.
    Cherry liqueur: Kirshwasser is the usual cherry liqueur used in Black Forest desserts, but most any cherry brandy or other cherry liqueur will elevate the flavor. My homemade cherry liqueur is linked in the blog post, and is very easy to make. Although it needs to steep at least 30 days before using. 
    Instant espresso powder: Instead of brewed espresso or strongly brewed coffee, you can use reconstituted instant espresso powder. Follow the directions on the container and let cool to room temperature. 

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    Browned Butter Sweet Potato Biscuits

    Using buttermilk in your biscuits helps the dough rise and creates taller, fluffier biscuits. The subtle tang from the buttermilk pairs beautifully with the browned butter, sage, and sweet potato for a harmony of flavors perfect for fall. Browned Butter Sweet Potato Biscuits In a light-colored medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add sage; […] LEGGI TUTTO