Decor | Lifestyle | Design
This lemon cheesecake is rich and delicious yet also light and refreshing, making it the perfect dessert for Easter or any other spring gathering.
Growing up my mom didn’t make a lot of fancy desserts on holidays. In fact, she basically made one, a rich and decadent cheesecake. We had it every Christmas and Easter and it’s always been a favorite of mine.
For us, Valentine’s Day dinner has mostly been an ‘at home’ affair. We’ve often found the over-crowded and over-priced restaurant meal to be a bit much, and if it falls on a weeknight, not all that convenient either. So years ago we started making it a ritual to stay in and have a romantic night at home.
When I was a little girl, we made batches and batches of Christmas cookies to take to neighbors and friends, and I’ve continued that with my kids as well.
It’s one of those things that really makes the holidays feel special, and I love continuing the tradition. However, I’ve pared down our baking from what we did back then.
Rather than doing dozens of sugar cookies with lots of messy decorating (ie; frosting and sprinkles, oh my!) I pick one favorite each year and make that one for everyone.
This means there are only a handful of cookies that pass the test – but these are one of them!
These Chocolate Peppermint Crunch Cookies are truly one of my all-time favorite cookies, combining two of the most popular holiday flavors. And every time I’ve brought them to friends or neighbors, I’ve gotten tons of compliments.
I’ve made a lot of holiday cookies in my life, and I can honestly say these are in the top five for sure!
Bringing together the delicious combo of peppermint and chocolate – these cookies are reminiscent of peppermint bark. In fact, they’re like peppermint bark but in cookie form!
These start with a double chocolate base, using both melted dark chocolate and cocoa powder which makes them extra rich and delicious.
The peppermint flavor also makes a showing twice, both in the batter and in the crunchy candies on top.
And yet, as ‘fancy’ as these look, they’re actually one of the easiest cookies to make! There’s no refrigerating dough in between, and they are easily made (and eaten) in one morning or afternoon. 😉
But be careful – I ate quite a few just when I was shooting them – they’re that good! I challenge you to eat just one! 😉
These are perfect for gifts for neighbors, friends or teachers, or for bringing to a cookie exchange.
Or of course, you could just make them for yourself. It is the holidays after all! 😉
Happy Holiday Baking!
Sheila
xo
*adapted from Epicurious
Now be sure to check out some of my friends who are also sharing yummy holiday cookie recipes below!
Classic Sugar Cookies For Christmas // My 100 Year Old Home
Christmas Cookie Hack // My Sweet Savannah
Mexican Christmas Cookies // Just Destiny
If there’s any time to make a special cocktail, it’s definitely at the holidays! This Pomegranate Cosmopolitan is not only delicious but it’s also beautiful and happens to be one of my favorites!
If you’re familiar with a traditional Cosmopolitan cocktail, it consists of vodka, orange liqueur, and both lime and cranberry juices. Here we’re swapping out the cranberry juice for the richer taste and color of pomegranate juice.
I think it might be even better than the original version!
And I love that the pomegranate juice makes it a little more tart and refreshing. It also doesn’t have added sugar like many cranberry juices so you can adjust the sweetness to your personal preference.
The pomegranate juice also gives the cocktail an amazing color making it perfect for the enjoying during the holiday season!
When it comes to the orange liqueur, I like to use Cointreau rather than the typical Triple Sec. In my opinion, Cointreau tastes smoother and more complex which makes for a much better cocktail.
Pour them into a gorgeous coupe glass and garnish with a slice or twist of lime, or even a few pomegranate aerils.
I love to make them as a starter cocktail for the evening. It’s a great way to greet your guests and everyone loves them!
And Cosmopolitans can be made in a pitcher which makes them very easy for entertaining, just double or triple the recipe as needed.
And of course, since it’s the holidays, feel free to enjoy these even when you’re not having company! 😉
Wishing you all a wonderful holiday season full of delicious cocktails!
Sheila
xo
*adapted from Epicurious
I’m joining some friends who are also sharing delicious holiday drink recipe ideas, so be sure to check out them out by clicking on the links below each image!
Homemade Mulled Wine | Naughty but Nice Christmas Cocktail | Merry Mistletoe Margaritas | Cranberry Whiskey Mule
Whether you’re setting a table for a winter dinner party, a small holiday gathering, or even Christmas Eve, this simple and natural table is an easy but elegant way to create special memories and let those around you know how much you care.
I love entertaining, especially at the holidays! And I love that by making a little extra effort the night feels that much more special.
Usually when I’m creating a table I start with a special salad plate, and this Christmas table was no exception. When I spotted these Winter Botanical dishes from Walmart I was completely smitten, and I knew I had to do a table with them!
The pattern is a subtle, pretty nod to the season (which I love) and they make the perfect base for a simple and natural Christmas table setting! Emphasizing the classic red and green botanicals on the plates, I created a red and green table to highlight them.
It’s no secret that I love anything pumpkin. Anything. When Trader Joe’s releases all of their delicious pumpkin items each fall, I’m right in there happily trying every last one!
But when it comes down to it, is there a better way to eat pumpkin than in a yummy dessert?