Thursday, July 8, 2010

Syrup, Muffins & Pie -- Oh My!

Fiance and I have been busy in the kitchen. Thus, I have a few recipes to share.

I actually had pictures of the finished products, as well as the baking process, but my camera now resides at the bottom of Lake Oneida. This means the 100 or so pictures my college friends and I took while sunning, singing and dancing on the boat all weekend will only be enjoyed by the fishies. So sad.

The good news is Fiance already made sure I got a new waterproof camera. Now he's looking into finding some sort of floating strap to avoid further camera catastrophes.

On to the recipes...

Fresh Blueberry Syrup

Last week, Fiance made me a fabulous breakfast of French toast topped with fresh blueberries, blueberry syrup and powdered sugar. His syrup was so tasty (& easy), I have to share his concoction.

The portions can vary, depending on whether you prefer a thicker consistency (more syrup) or a stronger blueberry flavor (more blueberries).

  • 1 cup blueberries (he used the tiny sour ones and saved the big sweet ones for on top)
  • 2 tbsp syrup
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • a drop of vanilla

If you're looking to splurge on breakfast, add the whipped cream!

Oatmeal, Blueberry & Orange Muffins

Last month my book club read Friday Night Knitting Club by Kate Jacobs. It wasn't one of my top 5 favorite books, but if you're looking for a book that features strong female characters who learn the importance of friendships and forgiveness, this is the book for you.

Whether or not you read it, I do recommend the muffin recipe included in the book. It uses whole wheat flour instead of white and honey instead of sugar. And they're flavored with fresh orange juice and blueberries. Compared to most muffins, I'd say these are pretty healthy.

Deep Dish Peach Pie with Pecan Streusel Topping

I made this pie for a Fourth of July party weekend at Dining Diva's house on Oneida Lake. Fiance and I went to see two of my very best friends from college and their significant others. I seriously love boating with them and D's fabulous parents. Fiance even got me boat shoes for the occasion!

The pie was a huge hit. I was almost afraid to try it, as the recipe was a bit daunting. But once I got going, it really wasn't too difficult at all. And as always, the compliments are the biggest reward!

Also a favorite weekend was my favorite pretzel jello recipe that I passed along to the Dining Diva. She really did it up right, adding an extra layer of cool whip to the top and decorating with fresh strawberries and blueberries to make it festive for the holiday weekend. Yum!