Dessert Darling

See's Candies, a Household Holiday Staple!

If See's advertised itself as a chocolatier, I'd have to give them 3.5 cherries. But they don't, they call their treats candy, and that distinction escalates their rating to a solid 5-cherries for their chocolaty, crunchy, tasty goodness! If not for yummy-factor, than at least for nostalgia's sake. I literally can't conceive of a holiday in my home without a box of See's accompanying the festivities.  

Since childhood, these mini, gourmet candy bars have made their way into every Christmas, Easter, and birthday celebration, with each family member having a favorite.  

Dad's the marzipan, mom's the dark chocolate with almonds, my brother Chris likes the cherry cordials, Greg's the healthy one who'd rather eat beef jerky, and I was a "Scotch Mallow" girl (butterscotch and marshmallow covered in chocolate.. mmmm). 

While I don't think these are the most delicate and say, sexy treats, for a romantic affair, I do think they're fun and hearty chocolates for a family to enjoy on special occasions.

 

For more info on See's Candies, click here.

 

XOOX

Macarons from La Provence Patisserie in the Brentwood Gardens

While a gift box of macarons from La Provence Patisserie looks as promising as a box from Paulette Macarons, your mouth will surely be disappointed.  Compared to Paulette Macaron's refined perfection, these almond cookies zing your mouth with their intense sweetness and artificial flavors.  The orange cookie tasted just like Orange Fanta soda, and my friend couldn't even eat the "Rose" flavor, she was so horrified by the fact that it tasted just like the way her toy dolls used to smell (you know, like the perfume scent on a Strawberry Shortcake doll).  The Hazelnut is one of their most popular flavors and not surprisingly so. It's one of the most natural in both taste and color. The sea-salt caramel offering was also pretty tasty.

 

 

I've certainly had worse macarons in my day (eh hem, Little Next Door).  These treats do look delightful and have the right consistency.  Ultimately, La Provence macarons lurk somewhere between a 2.5-3 Cherry rating.  That said, the Cafe in the Brentwood Gardens is a darling and bright shop that serves wine and beer as well as other baked and savory goods.  It looks like a darling lunch or date spot. 

 

For more information on information on La Provence Patisserie and Cafe, click here. 

Photo by Sue Tofu. 

macaroonsmacaroons

Thinny Thursday: Desserts that FIGHT Fat!!!

 

My friend from Awake and Living sent me this wonderful little article by David Zinczenko about 7 Desserts That Fight Fat. Now that's my kinda guy! He basically states that sugar aside, ice-cream boasts calcium, an element that can actually block the absorption of fatty acids in the digestive track. Go Calcium! Furthermore, each half-cup has choline, which could aid in diminishing your risk of heart disease or stroke by lowering an amino acid called homocysteine.  Wow- all I know is that ice-cream always makes me feel more calm and happier.  The author goes on to list America's 7 best desserts that offer nutritional substance.  The treat that I'm most excited to try from his list is Wendy's Jr. Original Chocolate Frosty!

To read the full article, click here.  Thanks for sharing with me Awake and Living!

xoox

 

My Man, Trader Joes, Does it Again: Vegan Trail Mix Cookies

Even without all the ooey-gooey butteriness of "real" cookies, I still find these Vegan Trail Mix Cookies by Trader Joes to be completely desirable.  With nutritious additions like oats, raisins, and peanuts, they seem like a smarter cookie for you body.  In fact, I think of these treats as being more like a cookie-snack than a cookie-dessert.  Go go go Trader Joes for always coming through with super delicious, low-priced goodies that I can count on for fun gatherings! 

 

 

For more information on Trader Joes, click here. 

 

xoox

photo from the internet. 

A Forbidden Affair- An Open Letter to Jack (...in the Box)

Dear Jack, 

Twice, Twice in the last month I have visited you late night. You've lived down the street from me for four years now and I've never even looked your way. What is this new affair?? I'm not this kind of girl!!! Ok, I admit it, I gave your Pumpkin milkshake 5-cherries last Halloween... but that's a seasonal treat.. an anomaly.  However, you did it again with your Mint Oreo Cookie milkshake last night! Ugh! A perfect balance of flavors, an admirable consistency, thick but not impenetrable, and most tantalizing yet--those Oreo cookie chunks! My fiance even declared it GOLDEN CHERRY worthy!!! From a fast food joint?? Out of a machine?? It's OBSCENE.  And let's not even Talk about your Sourdough Grilled Chicken Club with bacon, for that was clearly laced with all sorts of crack-like addicting tastiness.  Ugh! 

JACK- this relationship cannot be. It was great while it lasted and I know I'll never forget it, but quite simply, I'm not a fast food girl.  Really- I'm not! My mama raised me better than that.  Maybe for the holidays, I'll stop by.. you know, for an Eggnog special... but this late night shenanigans? You'll have to find someone else who'll fall for your charms. Sorry Jack, but we're Over.

Truly,

 

The incriminating evidence! 

 

Tootie Pies from Texas! Yeeehaw!

Tootie Fruity Yummy Looty!

WOW. I came home to two HEAVY packages from Tootie Pie Co., each containing a perfect pie. The first was this award-winning Apple Pie, which you can see is jammed packed with Apply-deliciousness. It was sweet and slightly zingy with brown sugar, cinnamon, and an amazing crust.

 

The second was this Buttermilk Pie that tasted just like flan with a consistency that reminded me of smooth ricotta cheese. I loved every bite of it. In fact, I was addicted to the sweet, soothing, dreaminess of this pie, and enjoyed mixing it with some bites of the Apple Pie to zing it up.

 

In short- I love me my Tootie Pies! Check out this list of all their different pies and flavors and try not to drool on the keyboard.  These pies are No. Joke.  Might have to revisit these bad boys for the Golden Cherry at the end of the year....

Thanks Tootie Pies for the delicious delivery!  I'll be trying your pumpkin pie in the fall!

 

XOXO

Reese's Pieces versus Peanut Butter M&Ms, You Decide...

So last night my guy and I made it a Blockbuster night, and we got into a little stand-off when it came to our candy purchase. Before I elaborate  though, I must declare- I don't like artificial candy! I always feel worse after I eat it. But last night it looked so fun and colorful and well- it was a Sat. night! We had to splurge!

Anyway, my guy wanted Reeces Pieces and I suggested that we get Peanut Butter M&Ms. This spurred a whole debate as to which candy is actually better.  

So now I ask YOU, dear DD readers, which candy do you prefer??

 

Photo from RelaxitsWorse

xoxo

Cupcake Challenge Recap- A Vlog Entry!

Hi friends! So, I'm trying to get the hang of using my i-phone to film myself on the go. Apologies for the poor sound quality in the first half (it was loud in there), and then the sugar crash in the second half (it happens), but at least you can get a sneak-peak of what a Cupcake Challenge is all about. Congrats to Eat:Drink:Play Events for putting on a fantastic event!

 

 

 

XOXO

Mallow Munchie Madness!

Awe! Today I came home to a box of Mallow Munchies, which are essentially gourmet Rice Krispies treats. Made with homemade marshmallows, handmade caramel, and Belgium chocolate, among other fine ingredients, these extra gooey and gigantic Munchies excite adults and kids alike.  My favorite bar? The Popcorn and M&M munchie- A totally addicting and genius mix of flavors!! :-9  Thanks Mallow Munchies for the delicious package! 

 

  

 

For more information on Mallow Munchies, click here. 

xo

Susina Bakery- Charming Atmosphere and Delicious Selections!

Su Su Su-Yeah! Woh-Oh!

What's that song from the '80s? Anyway, everytime I think Susina, that song comes to mind. 

Susina is a super charming bakery & cafe on Beverly Blvd and La Brea that serves one of the best berry cream cakes I've had. Indeed, their Berry Blossom vanilla sponge cake layered with white chocolate mousse, fresh berries, and touches of orange liqueur, meringue, and white chocolate shavings, would make Sweet's Lady Jane's bland rendition cry.

Susina's pastries are also quite delectable.

The red velvet cake let my friend and me down a bit with it's thick and mild frosting, and the cookie, while darling, was hard, firm, and tasted liked it came from a box in a grocery store.  

Overall, I highly recommend convening with friends at Susina Bakery or stopping by to try some of their many tempting treats yourself!

 

 For more information on Susina Bakery & Cafe, click here.  

xo

 

Edelweiss Chocolates, in Beverly Hills for 69 years..!

Well, we had a fantastic 5-cherry streak there for a while, but I'm afraid I have to break it today with this review on Edelweiss Chocolates in Beverly Hills.  This small but packed confection shop has been around for 69 years, and clearly must be doing something right. However, I'm at a loss as to what that is. These chocolates are extremely sweet. I mean, powdered-sugar overload inside those truffles! I actually had to spit some bites out they so shocked my taste buds.

Edelweiss Chocolates are more like candy, in the vein of Milkyways and Reeces bars. They have a lot of marshmallow covered options, which you don't see in more refined chocolatiers. Indeed, Edelweiss Chocolates seem to be a hodge-podge, poor man's take on See's Candie's, which was founded in 1921- A true LA landmark! Hmmm, if you're on Canon, walk a few block's south to Madam Chocolat, your sophisticated palette will be glad you did.

 

 

xo

Happy Valentine's Day! I Love YOU and these Strawberry Ladybugs :)

Ha ha, How cute are these Strawberry Ladybugs that I found on Wing-It Vegan.com?! 

 

I just want to take a moment to say THANK YOU so much for reading by blog, following me on Twitter, FB, and subscribing to my site. Every time I get a comment or new follower, it makes me grin from ear to ear. I LOVE YOU and sharing my joy and passion with you everyday.  

XOXO

 

ps: click here for step-by-step instructions on how to make those adorable bugs!

You Are Loved

A year ago from today my fiance proposed to me in a 4 Seasons hotel room that he had decorated with seventeen dozen cupcakes, chocolates, candies and more (full story w/ photos here ). I am the luckiest DD that ever could be.

Today I encourage you to think of something extra special to surprise a loved one on Valentine's day tomorrow. Whether it be a friend, parent, mentor, or sibling, you can never say or hear "I love you" enough.  When you smile, the world smiles back. So have fun, get creative, clever, sweet, or simple- just find a new way to say- You're loved.  

 

 

XOXO

 

ps: to see my top treats for any Valentine, check out my Redbook article here! :)

 

The Real Chocolate of Beverly Hills - Madame Chocolat

They say Ginger Rogers did everything that Fred Astaire did, but backwards and in heels.

Today I entered the ritzy, Beverly Hills chocolate shoppe, Madame Chocolat, which I instantly recognized from scenes in The Real Housewives of BH.

 

I was delighted to not only enter a luxurious chocolate shop, but also to see the bright and cheerful kitchen where the chocolatiers make magic happen!

 

I then noted, that alongside the Madame Chocolat truffles, a whole side of the case was dedicated to Jaque Torres chocolates. Furthermore, the chocolate chip cookies looked just like the Jacques Torres cookies that I reviewed in New York.

 

Hmm...I asked the Madame herself if she preferred her chocolates to Jacques', and she waxed poetic about how he is the master, and that both chocolates are great- just different. Well, we'll see about that- I thought.

 

 

A few bites into Madame's exquisite chocolates and I was an instant devotee. The delicate offerings were feminine and bite sized, with a steady shell that allows for some lively crunch. Oh Madame! I prefer these sultry morsels any day to those of Monsieur Torres'! 

As I was leaving the store, I overheard her share to the next costumer, that Jacques Torres, the "master", is indeed her Husband!! Aw-Hah!

Well Madame, if he is Fred Astaire, then You are Ginger Rogers.

 

For more info on Madame Chocolate, click here. 

 XOXO

 

Thinny Thursday: Trade One Guilty Pleasure for Another- Shopping!

This Thinny Thursday, instead of eating, how 'bout some shopping?! Cruise through my gift shop here to find some darling Valentine's inspiration for your mom, friends, or special loved one. From my favorite fragrance to adorable cupcake books, you're sure to find something great to treat your sweetie to this Feb. 14th!

Click the thumbnails to see just a few highlights from my shop! 

 

 

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Since I'm an affiliate with Amazon, you can use whatever free credits or shipping that you have with them here. :)  Enjoy!

 

ps: Don't forget about our awesome deal with Platine Cookies!! Click here!

 

XOXO

 

The Cupcake Challenge- Lots and Lots of Cupcakes!

Oh Wow- I just got back from the Cupcake Challenge that's put on by Drink:Eat:Play Events and I am in sugar Shock!  There were 35 entries and all the bakeries worked hard to put out their best traditional and original selections for hundreds of avid cupcake eaters to enjoy.  The two bakeries that really stood out for me were The Cake Shop and My Delight (from Ontario).  I shot some i-phone footage, but need to figure out how to edit it! So hang tight for that.. ;) In the meantime, here's a peak of the all the cupcakes that I sampled!

 

 

Btw, one trend that I saw was glitter on the cupcakes. Yes, actual, sparkly glitter. Thoughts??!

 

xoox

Cocktail Inspired Cupcakes by Swizzle Cakes! A Valentine's Special~

Valentine's Day is around the corner and I'm so excited to share with you these absurdly delicious Swizzle Cakes! Swizzle Cakes are alcoholic cupcakes that come in large "highballs" or mini "shot-cakes" and were inspired by your favorite cocktails. Seriously guys, you can't tell from this footage, but I ate 7 of them on our shoot. The frosting was phenomenal, which always get me, but pair great frosting with original flavors and a dynamic kick of alcohol, and I'll be your Valentine any day.  

 

 

 

For Shizzle my Swizzle, these cupcakes are da bomb!

For more information on Swizzle Cakes, click here. 

 

xoox

WOO! 30% OFF Platine Cookies- Special Deal for DD Readers!!!

Hi everyone! You know how I just posted this GOLDEN Cherry Review for Platine Cookies? Well the good bakers at Platine's are giving my readers, yes, YOU, 30% off of their goodies! All you have to do is follow them on their Twitter of FB and tell them that "DD sent me," when you go make your order in their Culver City store. 

This is an AWESOME deal guys!! Just in time for Valentine's Day and Oscar parties! I promise you, Platine Cookies will make you Swooon!

 

This offer lasts from Today through Feb. 15th, so take advantage of it! 

For more info on Platine Cookies, click here. 

 

You're welcome ;-)

XOXO

 

Happy Superbowl Sunday!

How cute is this Football Cake made of mini cupcakes that I bought at Whole Foods!? I hope it's tasty! 

 

 

I'm also pretty jazzed about these Gianna football sugar cookies.  If you may recall, Gianna's won the Golden Cherry for best store-bought sugar cookies (review here)! 

 

I wish you all Safe and Wonderful Superbowl Sundays and may your favorite team Win!! :)

 

xoxo

Woo! 944's Wedding Issue, The Best Cakes for LA Brides!

 

Hi everyone! I'm so excited to announce that I wrote a spread on the best Los Angeles bakeries for blushing brides. It took a lot of cake-eating, but in the end, I found five fabulous bakeries to suit five different types of brides.  My article is on Pg. 99 of 944's Wedding Issue. You can click here for the electronic issue and zoom in to read, or you can find a magazine on stands now. Whether you're engaged or not, it's always great to know from where to get the best cakes!

 

 

XOXO

Thinny Thursday: AHH! I Ate Too Much! Now What..??

We've all been there before, a day, a night, maybe even a week of feasting and letting ourselves go silly. I, for one, went completely nuts over my birthday weekend. Did the scale tip in an unpleasant direction the next Monday? Yes. What did I do about it? Not a whole lot.  

Some people scold themselves for over-eating and then make lofty plans to Diet (4-letter word!) the next day or week. Food is not meant to make you feel guilty. We all over-do it sometimes, that's Life. What I recommend doing, instead hating yourself, is saying "That's ok! Everyone does it now and then. It's going to take a few days to get back on track. But those days will come and go in no time!"

Instead of dieting, stay on track with your normal eating patterns, but make healthier substitutions for an allotted 1-3, maybe 5 day period (depending on the "damage"). I always have oatmeal, no matter what, but instead of a turkey sandwich for lunch, I might have a salad. Instead of a full dinner entree, I might have steamed veggies and soup.  Instead of a cupcake, I might have a lollipop. With some substitutions and your normal work-out routine, you'll be back on track before you know it. The key is Discipline, not Dieting. 

 

xoxo

Platine Cookies: Roll Your Eyes Back and Die in Deliciousness

HOLY SUGAR COOKIE SANDWICH!  I about died, DIED, when I bit into the amazingness that is the vanilla, vanilla "Oreo" with buttercream frosting inside. I must award it the Golden Cherry now for best Sugar Cookie-Vanilla Buttercream sandwich, for I'm sure nothing in that category will compare. ;)

Imagine baking Pillsbury sugar cookies and then spreading on some Betty Crocker frosting: now imagine that combination tasting a hundred times better with real, natural, and fresh ingredients, and Voila- you've got yourself my favorite cookie from Platine Cookies in Culver City.

Platine Cookies makes small delights that look and taste like the best batch from a friend's homemade recipe. Butter plays a prominent role in each baked good that Platine makes. It's amazing how something as simple as real, great butter, and it's ratio to salt, can dictate the wow-factor in a cookie. But it does!

 

 

Above is an image of my box of treats that I bought and devoured today.  My star cookie is in the far left, upper corner.  That Disco Ho Ho on the far right wasn't kidding around either.

As I was buying my goodies, the couple next to me said that Mary Steenburgen had recommend the bakery to them.  So there you go- Platine's Cookies is even celebrity approved! ;)

For more info on Platine's Cookies, click here. 

 

xoxo

Kee's Chocolates in SoHo, NY: Intoxicating!!

Ooh la la! I feel energized... and Flushed! Like I've been sipping an after-dinner drink sprinkled with pixie dust.  And yet, this sensation comes not from alcohol, but rather, chocolate: Kee's Choclates, to be exact.

Every night Kee hand-makes her chocolates with the freshest ingredients and secret recipes that she, alone, knows. The extraordinary results are small globes with delicate shells that crack to expose silky, exotic fillings like rose & black tea, sesame seed, cognac, and creme brulee.

These intoxicating truffles would make the perfect gift for that special someone (including yourself ;).

For more info on Kee's Chocolates, click here.

 

Image from blog.ratestogo.com

xo