Category Archives: Uncategorized

Peach Cobbler + Some Exciting News!

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Peach Cobbler

Alright, ya’ll are probably just dying to hear my news right now, so I’ll cut to the chase.

 

We're Expecting!

We’re expecting! To see more photos and details, visit my personal blog.

 

Peaches for Peach Cobbler

Now about this peach cobbler.

Simply mix together some peaches, sugar, cinnamon and cornstarch, whip up a drop biscuit batter, and bake until golden. And you have dessert!

When Reuben saw me editing the photos for this post, he wistfully asked if there was any peach cobbler left, even though it had been gone for over a week. Guess that’s a hint to make it again. :D

Peach Cobbler

Notes:

* The original recipe was for a peach blueberry cobbler, which sounds lovely, but I didn’t have any on hand. I’m sure you could easily adapt this recipe for different fruits. Just make sure to adjust the sweetener according to the tartness of the fruit.

* If I would have thought of it, some coarse sugar sprinkled on top of the biscuits would have been lovely.

* I ended up cooking the cobblers much longer than the recipe recommended. Think of that time as a starting point.

Individual Peach Cobblers | slightly adapted from Martha Stewart | makes 4 servings |PRINTABLE PAGE |

 

Ingredients:

 

  • 4 to 5 ripe peaches, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon sugar, demerara, sucanat, rapadura, or sweetener of choice
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 1 large egg
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (can substitute half whole wheat if desired)
  • Pinch of table salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • Vanilla ice cream or cinnamon whipped cream (optional)

 

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place peaches in a large bowl. Whisk together 1/4 cup of the sugar, cinnamon, and cornstarch. Add to peaches; toss to combine. Set aside.
  2. Combine egg, 2 tablespoons melted butter, and cream in a bowl; whisk with a fork. Set aside.
  3. Sift together flour, salt, baking powder, and remaining tablespoon sugar. Make a well in center of dry ingredients, and pour egg mixture into well. Using hands, slowly draw dry ingredients into wet ingredients, and work dough until just mixed together.
  4. Divide fruit mixture among four 8-ounce ramekins. Gently pat dough into 4 disks just big enough to fit on top of ramekins. After placing, brush dough with remaining melted butter. Place ramekins on a baking sheet. Bake until juices bubble up and crust is golden brown, 15 to 17 minutes. Serve warm, with cream or ice cream if desired.

 

13 Responses to “Peach Cobbler + Some Exciting News!”

  1. Eeeeh how exciting! Congratulations! That’s wonderful news.

    & the peach cobbler looks gorgeous, too.

  2. Kathryn says:

    Congratulations :)

  3. Emily says:

    Oh Erica! CONGRATULATIONS! I’m over-the-moon excited for you!

  4. I really, REALLY like these photos!! :-)
    And congrats again – I know I already commented over on your other blog, but news like that deserves double attention. :-D

  5. Nadia says:

    Congrats Erica!

  6. Congratulations! I’ve only recently discovered your blog, but I really enjoyed the posts I got to read so far. It seems that the next Valentine’s Day you and your husband will spend together might turn into something really special.

  7. Congratulations!! Every time I hear someone announce that they’re going to have a baby(especially their first) I get so excited. I remember the excitement of expecting my own. I love it :) You look great! Wishing you all the best :)
    Your cobblers look great! I love individual desserts like this(especially fruit desserts!)

  8. Holly says:

    Congratulations! I hope I can still find peaches to make your cobbler. It looks delicious!

  9. Jelli says:

    What exciting news, indeed! Erica, you’re going to be a fabulous mama. I have the feeling that growing up in a big family will definitely serve you well. Many many congratulations.

  10. Rachel says:

    The cobbler looks great! YUM! Congratulations on your pregnancy! I wish you a healthy, and happy next few months! :)

  11. Katie says:

    Congratulations!!! And I can’t wait to make this peach cobbler. Yum!

  12. Michelle says:

    Yay! Congratulations!!!

  13. Erlinda says:

    Hi erica! I’m a new reader and I have fallen head over heels with your blog simply because we share a lot of things in common. I’m a christian myself and newly married to a wonderful man. Every morning I struggle thinking about what to cook for our breakfast. I try to make our breakfast special because we can’t meet for lunch due to work and we rarely have dinner, because we only take light snacks for dinner. So, your blog has been a great help and it inspires me a lot. Thanks a lot, and keep inspiring! Love all the way from Malaysia.

Strawberry Galette + The Winner

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Strawberry Galette 004

If I were to choose my bane in baking, it would be pie crust. No matter what I do, it seems, my crusts inevitably turn out tough or crumbly, even if I use all white flour.

Grandma K. agrees with me. Pies are evil.

Strawberry Galette 006

This recipe may of have changed my mind. Slightly. It was the first pie crust that I was sort of proud of. There was no toughness in sight, it was flaky not crumbly and had lovely flavor. I’m still mighty leery of pies, but I just might have the courage make another using this crust recipe.

Recipe notes:

  • The original recipe called for a basil cream sauce, but it sounded a bit strange to me so I left it out.
  • Reuben, who does not like overly sweet desserts, thought this was bit tart. Perhaps another time I would increase the sweetness slightly.
  • With the leftover dough and strawberries, I made little hand pies.

Strawberry Galette | adapted from Martha Stewart | makes 8-10 servings | printable page

For The Dough

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for surface
  • 1 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 8 ounces (1 cup) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons ice water

For The Galette

  • 1 pound strawberries, hulled
  • 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon sugar (I used evaporated cane juice)
  • 2 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 tablespoon cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

Directions:

  1. Make the dough: (I mixed the dough by hand using a pastry cutter) Pulse flour, salt, and sugar in a food processor to combine. Add butter, and pulse until mixture forms coarse crumbs. Add ice water, and pulse until just combined (dough will still be crumbly). Shape dough into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight).
  2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. On a floured surface, roll dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut out a 10-inch round, and transfer to a parchment-lined rimmed baking sheet. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
  3. Make the galette: Cut strawberries lengthwise into 1/4-inch-thick slices. Reserve end pieces for another use. Toss slices with 1/4 cup sugar and the cornstarch, and immediately arrange them in concentric circles on dough. Start 1 inch from edge, overlapping slices slightly. Fold edge of dough over berries. Refrigerate for 15 minutes.
  4. Whisk together yolk and water. Brush dough with the egg wash, and sprinkle with remaining 1 tablespoon sugar. Dot berries with butter. Bake until crust is golden brown, 40 to 45 minutes.
  5. Transfer to a serving plate. Serve warm with basil cream and fried basil.

Now For the Giveaway Winner!

And the winner of Pioneer Woman’s Cooking Essentials is…

Commenter #77, Nikki Sportsman, who said: “on toast, with jam.”

That’s one of my favorites, too!

Congratulations, Nikki! I will contact you soon.

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Thank you to all who entered the giveaway! Have a lovely day.

How To Cut Butter + The Winner

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Have you ever been frustrated by trying to cut butter for pastry or biscuits? Have you wished for individual little squares, only to make smooshed-together pieces? Here’s my method for getting separated squares quickly every time.

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1) Start with cold butter. Cut it into thirds (more if you want smaller pieces) lengthwise, keeping the pieces separated.

2) Turn the pieces on their sides and cut in half (more if you want smaller pieces). Separate and lay out on your cutting board.

3) Keeping the pieces separate, cut the butter crosswise, resulting in little squares.

4) Keep the little pieces separate on your cutting board, and you’re done!

Now for the Bialetti Espresso Maker Winner!

Commenter #215: Debbie Bray, whose favorite hot drink is hot cocoa!

Thank you all for entering my giveaway. Have a lovely day!

Affogato + Bialetti Espresso Maker Review and Giveaway

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My dad is the king of espresso. For almost as long as I can remember, he has been making his own lattes on a fancy espresso maker. As a little girl, I eagerly anticipated the sound of the milk frothing, hoping there would be a little leftover for me to sip.

Then, I upgraded to the real deal: a carefully crafted latte, composed of perfectly brewed espresso, frothy whole milk, and a splash of vanilla syrup. My dad makes the best lattes, hands down; they are addicting.

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Thus, when Bialetti offered to send me one of their products to review, of course I selected their stainless espresso maker. Espresso on your stovetop? It sounded too good to be true.

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Here’s the espresso maker disassembled.  I love the design: so elegant.

So how does it work?

You fill the little bottom tank with water, add espresso to the funnel-shaped filter, and screw on the top (I loved that the directions instructed you to not “prize on the handle”). Place on the stove, turn on the heat, and, hey-presto! You have espresso in minutes. The espresso percolates into the top park of the coffee maker.

Yes, it really does work.

But the real question is: would I buy one?

Answer: Yes.

It is extraordinarily easy to use and clean, and it takes up so little space in the cupboard. The espresso is excellent. The price is a bit of a damper (around $40), but I think it’s worth it for a quality product. And it’s much less expensive than many of the automatic machines.

Here’s a tip I learned from a knowledgeable coffee shop worker: as soon as you hear the pot bubbling and fizzing, remove it from the heat. Otherwise, your espresso will be very bitter.

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On to the Affogato.

Rich, slightly bitter espresso poured over cool, creamy, sweet ice cream. This is Affogato al Caffè (Italian for “drowned in coffee”), a super-simple, elegant dessert.

Here’s what you’ll need to make your own:

Affogato al Caffè

  • Good quality vanilla ice cream
  • Hot, strong espresso

Directions:

Scoop the ice cream into small bowls or cups. Place in the freezer until firm, about 30 minutes. Brew your espresso and pour over the firm ice cream. Enjoy!

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Would you like to win an espresso maker of your own?

bialetti

The folks at Bialetti have generously offered to give away a Class espresso maker to one lucky Cooking for Seven reader!

Here’s how it works:

[Mandatory] Leave a comment on this post, answering the following question: What’s your favorite hot drink?

Rules:

You MUST provide a valid email address so I can contact you if you win.

Only one comment per person.

US residents only, please!

If you are the winner, you must respond within 48 hours with your mailing address or a new winner will be selected.

Giveaway ends Monday, December 5 at 12:00 noon Central Time.

I will select one (1) winner using random.org.

Good luck!

Smoky BBQ Sauce, Old & New

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for-cooking-for-seven

 

It’s ridiculous how much enjoyment I get out of comparing my old food photos with my more recent work. I find it so interesting to see how my style has changed. How much I’ve grown.

Here’s the comparison of my original Smoky BBQ Sauce photo (taken way back in October 2008, when my blog was brand new) to the photo I took of it just yesterday. Same BBQ sauce, same jar. But I chose different settings and lighting. I’m really disliking the blue color cast on the original photo. But I’m still liking the contrasty atmosphere.

What do you think? Which photo do you like better?

All of this to say, go visit the Tasty Kitchen Blog to see step-by-step instructions for making my Smoky BBQ Sauce {Link}

 

13 Responses to “Smoky BBQ Sauce, Old & New”

  1. Katrina says:

    I like the new photo better. The whisk makes me like it the best…it seems more real or something!

  2. I like the newer one, too. The colours are better; I associate BBQ with a sunny day, so the moodiness of the second photo doesn’t fit for me.

  3. Rachel says:

    The color is just splendid on the new picture!

  4. Ashley says:

    Both photos are gorgeous considering BBQ sauce can be a tough model to photograph, but the new one’s color is bright and brilliant.

  5. Angela says:

    I just wanted to let you know how beautiful your food photos are. I love the newer photo of the BBQ sauce. It’s not just the brilliant colors, but the staging that makes you feel it was just made in a real kitchen (or out on the range)–with the splatters and dirty wisk. Did you take a photography class or is experience doing the trick for you?

  6. Sasha says:

    The new photo makes me want to make this right away! Who knew bbq sauce could be so pretty?

  7. Diane F. says:

    Although both photos are good–I like the new one better. I like the dribbles of BBQ sauce on the wood!

  8. Well, the sauce is absolutely delicious. Made it myself once. The way I see these two photos is that there is a visible change in yourself…. You’ve grown up as a cook and as an author of this blog and photographer… that’s beautiful thing!!! You’re so lucky that you can cook and take photos of your food…. I am a cook but I’m terrible photographer so I have to rely on my partner in this….

    Good luck!

  9. Sarah says:

    I love your photography Erica, the brighter photo is my favorite too (I may have to try out your BBQ sauce recipe!). I also enjoy going through and comparing my old versus new photos.. its amazing how with practice one can get so much better. Did you read about photography or take a class? I have trouble coming up with new settings or presentation ideas so its fun to look at other blogs to find inspiration. You have a wonderful blog!

  10. Erica Lea says:

    Thank you, everyone!

    Angela & Sarah: I haven’t had any formal training. I simply takes LOTS of photos – practice makes perfect! :D I also look at lots of awesome food photos and read photography books for inspiration.

  11. Kate says:

    Definitely like the newest photo better! The color is brighter and the lighting is so much more appealing. I’d make the latest sauce, but would probably steer clear of the first pictured sauce. :)

  12. EVE says:

    wow! you really have done amazing job in taking pictures! latest one is my winner! colours and tone are beautiful!

    and sauce looks really delicious :D

  13. Beautiful photo! I must try the recipe too as it looks so tempting and delicious.

A Giveaway!

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Did ya’ll know that I have an Etsy shop? There I offer some of my favorite culinary, still life, and nature photography in print form.

Right now, I’m having a summer sale – by using coupon code “summer15″ you can take 15% off your entire order. Plus, everything ships free to United States residents!

 

Today, since I’m feeling a bit generous, I’m giving away two (2) prints of choice to one lucky reader!

 

Here’s how it works:

 

  • [Mandatory] Leave a comment on this post, telling me which is your favorite print frommy shop.
  • For extra entries, tweet, blog, or post on Facebook about this giveaway. Make sure to leave a separate comment for each extra entry with a link to the post.
  • For more entries, subscribe to my RSS feed, follow me on Twitter, or become a fan on Facebook. Make sure to leave a separate comment for each extra entry.

 

Rules:

Giveaway ends Wednesday, August 10, at 12:00 p.m. Central Time. No comments will be considered after that time.

I will select one (1) winner using random.org.

Good luck!

 

THIS GIVEAWAY HAS NOW ENDED

 

286 Responses to “A Giveaway!”

  1. Homegrown Blueberries! L.o.v.e. that one!

  2. I can’t decide between the grapefruit and the egg shot. Both so beautiful! Love your style.

  3. Tara says:

    I have tow favorite photos, the Misty Web and Hush, I’m Reading. LOVE THEM!

  4. Rebecca in NC says:

    I love Grandma’s Hands. So beautiful!

  5. I love the blueberry print! And the book with the heart

  6. I subscribe to your rss feed

  7. I follow you on twitter!!

  8. karla says:

    Love the print of the eggs! It is fantastic!

  9. karla says:

    I subscribed to your rss feed

  10. Maribeth Vagneur says:

    I love the “Hush I’m Reading”. Beautiful work though! I loved it all!

  11. jo ann says:

    I love The Robins Egg Blue. The joy of potential and tenacity all wrapped up in those glorious little eggs.

  12. jo ann says:

    I also love the “Hush, I’m Reading” because I’m an avid reader who loves getting lost in a book.

  13. Kristin says:

    Definitely the home-grown blueberries! So luscious and lovely.

  14. I had no idea you have an Etsy shop! So nice! I love the homegrown blueberries one :)

  16. Susan says:

    I love the blueberries!

  17. Melanie says:

    ‘Grandma’s Hands’ is beyond beautiful, Erica! It captures so much of an incredible woman in such a simple way.

  18. Jenny H. says:

    It’s so difficult to just choose one. Homegrown blueberries is my favorite.

    I’m also a Facebook Fan. I really enjoy receiving your updates via Facebook.

    Keep on cooking and taking beautiful photos!

  19. Melanie says:

    I also Facebooked you…and, for the record, my second favorite is ‘Robins Egg Blue’. So pretty!

  20. Britney says:

    I love the homegrown blueberries, but it may be because we grow blueberries on our farm.

  21. Stacie says:

    my favorite is homegrown blueberries! I love it!

  22. Alice says:

    My favorite is “Hush, I’m Reading.” It has such a sense of whimsy!

  23. Stacie says:

    and I follow you on facebook. :)

  24. Melissa Evans says:

    My fav is “hush, i’m reading” Love it!!!

  25. Paige says:

    I’m between the Grapefruit and Hush, I’m Reading. Gorgeous!

  26. Rachel says:

    Home-grown blueberries! But all of them are lovely!

  27. Rachel says:

    I’m also a facebook fan.

  28. Emily says:

    I can’t get over the blueberries print. GORGEOUS.

  29. Emily says:

    I also follow you on twitter. ;)

  30. My favorite is probably the Misty Spiderweb.

  31. Holly H. says:

    Love the Hush, I’m reading! Grandma’s Hands is a wonderful, priceless print!

  32. Holly H. says:

    Follow your RSS feed!

  33. I tweeted about the giveaway (but I just started my twitter a little bit ago and don’t have any friends yet….sorry – maybe by the end of the giveaway!)

    http://twitter.com/#!/surelyelizabeth

  34. Holly H. says:

    Follow you on FB!

  35. I subscribed to your tweets!

  36. I like you on Facebook.

  37. I receive your RSS in my google reader.

  38. debbie says:

    I love the blueberries – Lovely and speaks to me and my desire to produce beautiful photos. Beautiful styling!

  39. Nela says:

    Awesome! :)

    I really like your “Hush, I’m Reading” print. I love to read alot! ;)

  40. Nela says:

    I posted this giveaway on Facebook!

  41. Nela says:

    I’m a fan on Facebook!

  42. Nela says:

    I subscribed to your RSS feed. :)

  43. Anjanette S. says:

    Hush I’m reading, or Robins Egg Blue. Beautiful pics!

  44. I can’t decide between the blueberries and the book. Love them all! Thanks for the opportunity!

  45. Andi T. says:

    My favorite is Hush, I’m Reading

  46. Anjanette S. says:

    Liked you on Facebook! :-)

  47. Andi T. says:

    I facebooked the giveaway (Andi Bauer Trautman)

  48. Andi T. says:

    I subscribe to your RSS Feed

  49. Andi T. says:

    I like you on Facebook (andi Bauer trautman)

  50. Kelly says:

    I love the robin’s eggs.

  51. Kelly says:

    I am also a RSS subscriber.

  52. Kate M says:

    It is a tough choice, either hush I am reading or Grandma’s hands. Lovely work!

  53. Lisa S says:

    I ove the blueberries, and the eggs.

  54. Lisa S says:

    I posted the giveaway on FB

  55. blueberries! beautiful!

  56. Lisa S says:

    I am a follower on FB.

  57. Megan says:

    I think I like the Full Bodied tea cup best, but there are some other neat ones as well.

  58. Mel says:

    I absolutely love Air Mail and Hush! I’m reading. So great, I couldn’t choose between them.

    – Mel

  59. Sarah says:

    I love the blueberries and the grapefruit one – it’s a tie!

  60. Sarah says:

    I also subscribed to rss feed

  61. Sarah says:

    and shared the giveaway on facebook

  62. Hannah says:

    I adore the Grandma’s Hands. To me it shows a multigenerational faithfulness for feeding good healthy food to ones family and friends.

    Hannah

  63. Kimberly O’ says:

    Your photos are wonderful. I LOVE the blueberries and Hush, I’m reading!

  65. Ashley B says:

    I like the airmail shot, it’s fun!

  66. Mariann says:

    Grandma’s hands and Hush I’m reading!! Awesome work you do! I love it!

  67. Mariann says:

    Sharing you on Facebook!

  68. I love the robins egg blue. I have a thing for birdies.

  69. I love the bowl of eggs (the one at the top of this post)

  70. Sarah W. says:

    I LOVE “Robin Egg Blue”! Such a beautiful color. Thanks for all the great recipes and the giveaway chance. Be Blessed as you have blessed.

  71. Melissa F. says:

    I LOVE the “Airmail” photo.

  72. Melissa F. says:

    I’m a fan on facebook!

  73. Melissa F. says:

    I subscribed to your RSS Feed!

  74. ChristineD says:

    Home Grown Blueberries – being from Maine it just works!

    Thanks again – love all the shots.

  75. I follow you on Facebook, too.

  76. Laura says:

    I love the blueberry shot

  77. Sandy Ortiz says:

    I love the picture of Grandma’s hands! It reminds me of my Grandma and all the cherished memories that are locked in my heart. Priceless!

  78. Caroline says:

    Wow I love your prints! How am I supposed to pick one! I really liked: Hush I’m reading, Robin eggs blue, and airmail. I really liked grandmothers hands but my great grandmother passed away a year ago so it would be a little to painful for me right now.

  79. Hard to choose just one fave print, but I really “Hush, I’m reading” :)

  80. Just “liked” you on Facebook!

  81. Linda J says:

    They are all great – but I think the blueberry one is my favorite.

  82. Casey says:

    I love the Home-Grown Blueberries print as well as the Full Bodied print. Thanks for a chance to win! :)

  83. Casey says:

    I subscribe to your blog via Google Reader :)

  84. Casey says:

    I “liked” you on Facebook.

  85. Casey says:

    I follow you on Twitter: cbraden7

  86. Casey says:

    My tweet: http://twitter.com/#!/cookingforseven/status/98814207834865664

  87. I love love the blueberry shot!

  88. Ellen F. says:

    Hmmmm…. I love the blueberry print!!

  89. Windowfog says:

    Oh, I, too, fave the blueberries!

  90. Adriana says:

    homegrown blueberries is my favorite!

  91. Hush I’m Reading is great. I am often found reading so it suits me to a T

  92. I really love the Home-Grown Blueberries picture…and I also really love the farm fresh eggs!!! :)

  93. I am now following you on twitter! KatyLMA

  94. tweeted! http://twitter.com/#!/KatyLMA/status/99059847894548480

  95. I like you on facebook! Katy A.

  96. Uhhh…They are all so beautiful! I’m torn between the book with the heart and the robin eggs. So pretty!!!

  97. Jessica M. says:

    Hmm, that’s tough! I might have to say Misty Web (though the blueberries are great too!). Thanks for the giveaway!

  98. Amber says:

    My fave print in your shop is the Home-Grown Blueberries — 8×10 Fine Art Photo Print

  100. Amber says:

    I like Cooking for Seven on Facebook – my FB name is Amanda Moore

  101. Barb says:

    The robin’s eggs picture is my favorite!

  102. Barb says:

    tweeted the giveaway!
    http://twitter.com/#!/winterbabe98/status/99089707820003328

  103. Barb says:

    twitter follower winterbabe98

  104. Barb says:

    fanned you on Facebook! Barb Stewart

  105. Shelly says:

    I like the Hush I’m reading one!

  106. Shelly says:

    I follow you on Twitter.

  107. Shelly says:

    I like you on FB.

  108. Amanda says:

    They are all very beautiful, but it is a tie between a proper spot of tea and hush, I am reading.

  109. jamie says:

    i love the straws and book pages heart! beautiful pictures!

  110. jamie says:

    i facebooked about your fabulous photography giveaway!

  111. jamie says:

    i am a subscriber to your lovely blog!

  112. Hannah says:

    My favorite is the blueberry picture

  113. Every photo is absolutely stunning, but if you force me to pick, I chose the eggs or the blueberry photo. I’m quite fond of grapefruit, so maybe that too. Can’t decide :)

    What a fun giveaway! I’ve been wanting to decorate my kitchen with food photos. Do you print your photos out to frame them? Have you heard of printing them onto a canvas?

  114. I subscribe to your RSS feed :)

  115. I didn’t know you had a Facebook page, now I do so I added you to my page favorites :)

  116. Oh, and I follow you on Twitter!

  117. Maja says:

    The blueberries!

  118. Amanda Thompson says:

    My favorite print is the nest with the blue Robins eggs!

  119. Amanda Thompson says:

    I subscribe to your Rss Feed

  120. Ang says:

    Homegrown Blueberries is my fave! Thanks!

  121. Izzybee says:

    I love the shot of the robin eggs.

  122. Kathy says:

    I love your blueberries picture…and the eggs!

  123. Kathy says:

    I subscribe to your email updates.

  124. Jackie says:

    I really like “Hush, I’m Reading”. :)

  125. Jackie says:

    I’m a fan on facebook.

  126. Lori says:

    Good morning,

    It’s a toss-up between the blueberries and the grapefruit. Actually, they are all beautiful photographs.

    Thanks for the chance to win!

    Lori

  127. I love the blueberries and the farm eggs – beautiful!!
    s

  128. I subscribe to your rss feed

  129. I like you on facebook

  130. Emily H. says:

    I love Grandma’s Hands. It reminds me of so many wonderful memories!

    -Emily

  131. Katherine says:

    I would like the Robins Egg Blue!

    katherinedibello@gmail.com

  132. Loretta Sachsel says:

    Erica,
    “Hush, I’m Reading” is photo that portrays a love for books. I live in a very commercial suburban community where stores such as WalMart and Target rule the roost. Sadly, our only bookstore, Border’s, is in the process of liquidation. Border’s was a favorite destination during the cold days of Winter and the steamy days of Summer for my family and me. We would go there to shop and stock up on books to fill our minds and hearts, passing of favorites to each other for “family book discussions”. My children learned to enjoy reading because browsing and selecting from among the thousands of books offered was an event that celebrated their independence and individual tastes. It is true that one can do the same in a local library, but being able to browse a book at one’s leisure and keep your favorites near to share and reread is better. Our books are the most treasured contents of our home next to our family photos. Your picture says it all in one frame! It is a very beautiful captured moment!
    ❤ Loretta

  133. Suzanne says:

    I love the Airmail print.

  134. Suzanne says:

    I follow you on Twitter @kiddo47.

  135. Suzanne says:

    I like your FB page.

Wine Cake, Wedding…

Posted on by

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Hello, everyone! It’s so good to be posting again. Can’t wait to share new recipes that I try and modify. As predicted by my mother-in-law, I haven’t had to change the amount of food I fix very much – she warned me to continue “cooking for seven!”

While we were on our honeymoon, my post about red wine cake was featured on Tasty Kitchen. Check it out!

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This past month has been the happiest in my life. I can’t believe how blessed I am to be married to such an amazing man.

I’m hoping to eventually share many more photos and perhaps a bit of our story on my personal blog. Check out a couple more photos from our wedding here and here. Many thanks to my friend, Beth Schoenfelder, for taking these photos!

Until we meet again…happy cooking!

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29 Responses to “Wine Cake, Wedding…”

  1. Absolutely gorgeous!

  2. Congratulations again :) The picture of you two is absolutely stunning. I love it :)

  3. Rachel says:

    :) Happiness!!

  4. Lovely photo :) I hadn’t seen your wine cake before – intriguing!

  5. Zita says:

    Congratulations! I’m looking forward to reading your story! You looked beautiful on your wedding!

  6. Leslie says:

    Beautiful photos – looking forward to seeing and hearing more of your story! Congratulations!

  7. Katrina says:

    So happy for you, and glad to see you’re back!

  8. Welcome back, Erica! :)

  9. Natalie says:

    Congratulations Erica!!! I didn’t know you two had already tied the knot! Gorgeous picture. Make la-la land last as long as you can :)

  10. Alex says:

    Hi Erica! I love your blog! new fallower :P omg i found so so many inspirations! Congratulations for married-life! Lots of love and happiness in your new way, blessing and love from London! xxx

  11. Angie P. says:

    Absolutely beautiful photo! Congrats!

  12. So happy for you both… Congratulations! Best wishes for many happy years to come!

    I love that photo. Just stunning!

  13. Roberta says:

    Waaaw, just came across your blog, I love you photography, so fresh and bright!

    Well done :) Photos are brilliant :)

    check out my blog at la-roquette.blogspot.com

  14. Debby says:

    I’m a new follower and just wanted to say congratulations on your marriage! I wish you many, many years of happiness.

  15. Dawn says:

    I loved your MIL’s idea to keep the blog “Cooking for Seven” because of her son’s appetite. Love the teaser wedding photos! I’ve been praying for you and Reuben!

    In Christ,
    Dawn

  16. Sarah says:

    Hi Erica! I recently started following your blog, on recommendation from my sister. I really love seeing all the pictures of your homemaking, as I am an aspiring homemaker also. I was wondering if you could tell me where you got your wedding dress from, because it’s really, really beautiful!

  17. heather says:

    From one (soon-to-be) newlywed to another: The absolute best to you and yours!

    Cheers,

    *Heather*

  18. The second photo looks like it should be in a romance novel or coffee table book, absolutely gorgeous. Congrats on your wedding!

  19. Begoña says:

    You look beautiful. Love the veil. Congratulations!

  20. Beautiful photos (both of them! :-)). I *love* your veil… the way it falls in the picture is just gorgeous! Congrats on your marriage… may God bless you in your married life!

  21. Dea-chan says:

    Oh honey you look BEAUTIFUL. And I hope your man says as much every single day! :-P

    Congrats, and I wish you all the joy in the world.

  22. You look beautiful! Love this!

  23. Congrats on the wedding! Being Newlyweds is the best :) Enjoy every minute!

  24. Lexi says:

    Oh my gosh, that is a gorgeous photo!

  25. Sirena says:

    Oh Erica, you were such a beautiful bride! great pics. Congratulations to you both and wishing you a lifetime of happiness – marriage is a true blessing!

  26. Mrs C says:

    Oh wow! What a beautiful bride and photo! Congrats! We just hit the one year and it’s so much fun….best wished to you!!! And yum yum on wine cake!! As an amazing cook, what do you think of my bacon-blue cheese sliders!?!

    http://www.MrsCapretta.com
    Recipes Fashion Marriage

  27. rita says:

    as they say, “a picture is worth a thousand words,” your wedding picture says it all… even more!

    BIG CONGRATULATIONS! have a FANTASTIC life together. enjoy every moment of it.

  28. Jenna says:

    Congratulations!! I always love seeing your features on TK, but I’ve never (I don’t think) stopped by your blog. Your wedding pics are gorgeous, and I’d love to see more. I can see the joy in your face! Beautiful.

  29. Kassie says:

    Hi Erica!

    I love your site and can’t wait to try some of these new recipes. Your recipes are delicious and your photographs are just beautiful.

    I wanted to say CONGRATULATIONS on your wedding! I am so happy for you. I hope you have a blessed and happy life with your lovely husband.

    Best wishes and thanks for the great site with its wonderful spirit!

    Kassie Goforth

Maple Sticky Buns, and a Few Thoughts…

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These last few days of being single (yay!), I have been reflecting a bit on my life at home. Until now, it hasn’t really hit me that I’m leaving – entering a wonderful, new life with my husband-to-be. Apparently it hit my mom as well…we had a crying-and-hugging-fest today.

Cooking for Seven has been such a great creative outlet for me over the years (Did I really start this blog almost three years ago? How time flies…), and a bit of a challenge. Thank you all for your encouragement, tips, praise, and corrections (thank you for being honest!). It is my intention to continue sharing recipes with you after I’m married…my future mother-in-law instructs me to continue “cooking for seven” — my fiance eats a lot! :D

But I must say goodbye for a little while as I am getting married this weekend! Until we meet again, here is a scrumptious recipe for Maple Pecan Sticky Buns.
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Maple Pecan Sticky Buns

Adapted from Bon Appétit and the King Arthur Flour Baker’s Companion

Printable Page

Ingredients:

For the dough:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup whole wheat flour
  • 2 teaspoon instant yeast
  • 3 tablespoons maple sugar, granulated sugar, or sweetener of choice
  • 1 1/4 teaspoons salt
  • 1 – 1 1/2 cup milk, scalded and cooled
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons soft butter

For the filling:

  • 3/4 cups pecans, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup (packed) golden brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • soft butter for spreading on dough

For the syrup:

  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
  • 4 1/2 tablespoons (1 stick plus 1 tablespoon) unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup (packed) golden brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup pecans, coarsely chopped

Direction:

For the dough:

1) Mix and knead together all the dough ingredients in a stand mixer, bread machine, or by hand to form a smooth, soft dough. Add more milk or water if the dough seems too stiff.

2) Place in a greased bowl. Cover with a towel. Set in a warm place and let raise until almost doubled, about 1 to 1 1/2 hours.

For the filling:

Mix together all the filling ingredients thoroughly in a small bowl.

For the syrup:

Butter a 13 x 9 x 2-inch glass baking dish. Combine maple syrup and butter in heavy medium skillet. Stir over medium heat until butter melts. Remove from heat. Mix in brown sugar. Pour syrup into prepared dish; tilt to coat of bottom of dish evenly. Sprinkle the pecans; cool

To assemble and bake:

1) Roll out dough on a lightly greased counter to an 11 x 20 inch rectangle. Spread the soft butter all over the dough, leaving a narrow strip free of butter along one long edge. Sprinkle with filling ingredients.

2) Starting with the buttered long edge, roll up the dough and pinch the edges to secure. Cut dough with a sharp, serrated knife into 1-inch rolls. Place in prepared baking dish. It’s okay to crown the buns a bit.

3) Cover and let raise until quite puffy, about 45 minutes to 1 1/4 hours. Preheat oven to 375° F.

4) Bake buns uncovered until tops are golden brown and syrup bubbles thickly, reversing dishes halfway through baking, about 25 minutes. Remove from oven and immediately invert onto a baking sheet. Cool for 5 minutes. Serve warm with lots of butter. (Can be made ahead. Cool buns completely. Wrap buns tightly with foil on baking sheet. Freeze up to 2 weeks. Bake frozen buns covered 375°F until heated through, about 15 minutes.)

Makes approximately 14 buns

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Until after the honeymoon!

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32 Responses to “Maple Sticky Buns, and a Few Thoughts…”

  1. Oh, Erica, I wish you the most wonderful beautiful perfect gorgeous memorable wedding in the whole wide world. A sweet girl like you deserves nothing less.
    Soak it all in, feel all the love and let it find a permanent place in your heart & soul.

    Best wishes! :)
    Christina

  2. Lacey says:

    Hi Erica, I’ve enjoyed reading your blog for a while, and I am waiting for the perfect chance to try out some of your recipes.

    Best wishes on your wedding day! I’m sure it will be an event to remember. I wish you peace and happiness, and I look forward to your blogging return.
    -Lacey

  3. Leslie says:

    Erica these look wonderful and I look forward to trying them! I am so happy I discovered your blog, great recipes and your photography is lovely! I wish you all the best in your marriage, have a great time on the honeymoon, and I look forward to your return to your blog. I hope you will share some wedding photos with us, I know you will be a beautiful bride! :)

  4. Oh, I didn’t realise the wedding was so close! How wonderful. Have a wonderful day, a wonderful honeymoon, and may God bless you both as you embark on this, the most wonderful of human relationships.
    Blessings to your family too (I’m with mum here…. I’d be doing a whole lot of hugging and an even bigger lot of tears!)
    Every blessing,
    Anne x

  5. Peggy says:

    I had no idea you were getting married so soon! How wonderful!! You have no idea what a blessing you have been to me and my family since you started your blog. I will continue to pray for you and your beloved as you start this journey together. We look forward to your return!

  6. I hope you have a beautiful, wonderful, memorable wedding day!

    P.S. The sticky buns look amazing.

  7. Katrina says:

    Congrats! I’m so glad you will continue this blog, it’s one of my favorites! See you after the honeymoon and we’ll all try these sticky buns in the meantime!

  8. Emily O. says:

    Erica, I hope your wedding is wonderful! Remember to stop and enjoy the moments :)

  9. Enjoy and savor every moment!

  10. How exciting… have a wonderful wedding day and honeymoon! And (if you’re up for it) post a few wedding pictures… please? :-)
    It feels weird to comment about a wedding and sticky buns in the same comment, but… they look to die for! :-)

  11. Begoña says:

    I felt the same way when i was about to marry my husband. The last time I slept on my bed at my parents home, the home that had been mine for over 27 years, was one of those kind of happy sad moments that we all had on our lives.I felt nostalgic and really grown up. I cried a little and was scared. ¿Am I doing right? ¿Do I really grow up or do a preffer to be a little girl, protected by this house and my parents forever? It sounded temting, haha. But the truth is that marrige, being in love with someone, sharing life together, happy moments, the sad moments, the silly funny moments and the difficult ones too, is so special. You will never feel alone again. And you will learn so much about giving and recieving. It’s gonna be awesome!! I wish you all the luck in the world, have a beautiful wedding day and i hope to see you soon.

  12. Katie says:

    Erica: Praying that you are blessed with a wedding day that is beautiful beyond what you have hoped or imagined! You are a blessing!

  13. Best wishes this weekend for your big day! Hope you have an amazing wedding and honeymoon :)

    PS – Those sticky buns sound fantastic!

  14. All the best in your new life together. I hope you have a wonderful time this weekend!

  15. Kristina says:

    Erica,

    I am so happy for you! I have enjoyed reading this blog ever since I learned about it on tammysrecipes.com a couple of years ago.

    May your wedding be a dream come true and glorifying to God in every way.

    I am delighted to hear that you will continue to post recipes and such, and look forward to your return. But in the meantime, enjoy every moment ;)

    ~Kristina

  16. congratulations to you and your husband to be :) best wishes from Kuala Lumpur.

  17. Liz says:

    married life is fantastic! You will love it! These sticky buns may make for a perfect Saturday morning for my husband and I!

  18. Mary says:

    Erica, I just love your blog. You do such a wonderful job, and I’ve really enjoyed reading it. Congratulations on your upcoming marriage! Soak it all in, my dear! :) It will be the best day of your life. :)

  19. Michele says:

    Congratulations! Take the time to enjoy your wedding day, it goes so fast! Best wishes for a life that has more ups than downs, more triumphs than failure, and more love than you imagined was possible!

  20. Elisabeth says:

    Erica, Enjoy your big day and have a wonderful honeymoon!

    Your sticky buns look fabulously delicious!

  21. I just made sticky buns for the first time and they turned out fantastic. I used a brioche dough for them so they were extra rich.

    http://gamereviewwiki.com/bikinibirthday/2011/06/brioche-cinnamon-sticky-bun-recipe/

    Best of luck with your wedding. Stay calm and have fun. All that matters is you and your husband to be!

  22. Allison says:

    Best wishes to you in your new married life! :) This is the first time I have read your blog, but I will definitely be back here again! I have been married for a little over a month, and I can totally relate to suddenly realizing you have to leave your family. My mom and I had a similar crying and hugging fest. :) It’s really bittersweet, but wonderful to be married.

  23. Jessica Rodriguez says:

    **Hi. I work at Bass Pecan Company every year they have a recipe contest for a chance to win $1000!If you love baking with pecans you should check it out. Check out their Recipe Blog for great recipes and the contest rules and entry!!

  24. Congratulations in your new married life! You both make a beautiful couple :) Photos please, once you are back :)

  25. rita says:

    BIG CONGRATS!!! wishing you and your sweetie all the very best that marriage and life has to bring. enjoy the ride! it may be a bit bumpy sometimes, but with you both on it – everything will be just fine. :)

  26. Erica Lea, it’s so lovely to have found you, and particularly at such an auspicious time. And these maple pecan sticky delights are just GORGEOUS. I’ve just started making some sticky breads similar to these called Babkas. Found one in Kim Boyce’s book, Good to the Grain. Really worth a read if you haven’t… but you probably have. Hope you have a gorgeous wedding, cheers, Angela

  27. Oh, how cute! have fun and congratulations!

  28. Alexandra says:

    I love you blog and am so excites for you!!!!!!
    Hurry back so we can learn recipes from you on how to cook for two!!!!!!
    Love Alexandra

  29. I bet they didn’t last over a day. They look perfect and so inviting. Congratulations on your wedding Erica!

  30. Christine says:

    Hi Erica Lea, Your Maple Pecan Sticky Buns recipe has been selected to be featured in a Recipe Guessing Game. Please share the following link with your friends and fans. To play, go here: http://knapkins.com/guess_games/279?source=blog Congrats again!! :)

  31. […] Maple Sticky Buns from Cooking for Seven […]

  32. I love sticky buns. The addition of maple syrup sounds fantastic!

Things I Love/Want/Need to Make…

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Things I love. Things I want. Things I’m pretty sure I need to cook at some point in my life…

 

Slate cheese board. Or really anything from terrain.

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Fresco Nesting Bakers. Oh, so vintage…and dishwasher safe! Score!

I want to make me some bacon Jam. Inspired by a tweet by Kamran of The Sophisticated Gourmet.

Ice Cream Cups. So colorful and fun!

Condiment Spoons

Condiment Spoons. LOVE.

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Just Stripes towels.

Gingham Tear Off Napkins - NEW

Gingham Tear-Off Napkins.

Dried Organic Lavender Bundles

Organic lavender bundles.

Nutella Doughnuts. Um, yeah. Wow.

 

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Other awesome stuff worth mentioning:

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Square ramekins. A friend made crème brûlée in them, and I was hooked.

Teak Tea Spoon. I love little wooden spoons.

Fabric care symbols decoder. So handy. I should print it out and put it in the laundry room.

Sticky Toffee Pudding.

 

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Hope your week is off to an awesome start! Today I’m going to my first ever bridal shower held in my honor. So excited!

What makes you smile today?

 

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20 Responses to “Things I Love/Want/Need to Make…”

  1. I just love the tear off gingham napkins! Cute list!

  2. I love when you post I love/I want things :)

    Those nested bowls are adorable!

    Have fun at your bridal shower!!

  3. Are these on a wedding gift registry (sans food)?? Your post made me smile today….and to be excited with you as you attend your own bridal shower! Have a wonderful time, Erica!

  4. Rachel says:

    This post made me smile today :) Enjoy your shower!!

  5. Erica Lea says:

    Kay: No, this is just a dream list. :D 😀

  6. kristin t says:

    You had me at “bacon jam”! :-)

  7. So I pretty much loved everything on your list! Have fun at your bridal shower :)

  8. Peggy says:

    I don’t believe I have commented since we moved a little over a year ago… but I wanted to say congratulations! I was so excited when I heard you were engaged to be married. You have a lovely list of loves… wants… and need to makes! I think the bacon might be something to try for a blustery fall mid afternoon snack… the “boys” would enjoy it, that’s for sure.

    Once again congratulations! Have fun at your bridal shower!!

  9. Katrina says:

    I am also swooning over some of the products here! Cool!

  10. Bacon jam?? Sounds like something we’d love,

    The gingham napkins? I *know* I love :)

    Have a wonderful time at your bridal shower….such fun :)

  11. Jill says:

    What a nice list! Love it all, everything so bright and beautiful and lovely! Isn’t it awesome that we have such abundance to choose from!

  12. Libby says:

    Such a fantastic list. Love everything you picked.
    Have fun at your shower!

  13. Jessica M. says:

    Those tear off gingham napkins are neat. One of those things I see and think “I hadn’t thought of that, but I’m glad someone did!” Congratulations on your engagement as well.

  14. Dea-chan says:

    Have lots and lots of fun at your shower! And I agree wholeheartedly with your list — all of the items looks like great things with which to showcase your talented work for friends and family.

  15. Love the nesting bakers, the condiment spoons, towels…. oh, and the Nutella doughnuts. I *loooove* Nutella. :-) Have a wonderful time at your shower! How exciting!

  16. April W. says:

    You should totally buy fabric and make the napkins. Husband and I have used brightly colored gingham print napkins for the last 2 1/2 yrs of marriage that were handmade wedding gifts. I love them, and I know that anyone with any knowledge whatsoever of how to work a sewing machine (unfortunately, I don’t fit that bill) could whip those up in no time!

  17. Elisabeth says:

    I love everything you picked. Well maybe except the Bacon jam. :) I need to check out those ice cream cups and tear off napkins. We have some big events coming up at our place and these things might work for us.

    Have a fun time at your shower. Congratulations!

  18. Kate says:

    If you like wooden spoons, then you must check out the following-
    http://www.woodspoon.com/ These are made of all cherry wood. He also has a fancier line his wife helps design at-
    http://www.moonspoon.com/ These spoons are incredibly artistic.
    I was at an arts show and saw the booth they ran. If I had had the money I would have bought quite a few of their spoons!

  19. SO excited for you about your upcoming wedding! Hope the shower was wonderful :)

Rosemary & Thyme Spread, Old & New

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Over 1.5 years ago, first posted this recipe for Rosemary & Thyme Spread. Now, I’ve recreated it with step-by-step instructions. Check out my Guest Post on the Tasty Kitchen Blog for many more photos!

 

As you can see, I still had my glorious watermark. I do still like the mood of this photo, though. Makes me want to take a bite!
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8 Responses to “Rosemary & Thyme Spread, Old & New”

 
  1. Katrina says:

    This spread sounds fantastic! Nice recipe :)

     

  2. This looks yummy. And so easy.

    Thanks or sharing.

    Love,

    Mary

     

  3. The watermark isn’t obnoxious at all, you barely see it! And the photos are lovely.

     
  4. Eliana says:

    Running over to check out the step-by-step because this looks super delish.

     

  5. Two of my fav herb, sounds flavourful!

     

  6. Mmm looks delicious! Thanks for sharing and nice to see your posts again :)

     

  7. I wouldn’t mind taking a bite either!

     
  8. alisonjoy says:

    Just made this last night. One batch I followed the recipe exactly, second batch I simple added diced sundried tomatoes. Both were delicious, and I loved the color that the tomatoes added. The recipe really reminds me of an expensive cheese spread, but total cost of the ingredients(per batch) was under $1.50– love it!