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Young & HungryIf you can't take the heat, get outta the kitchen! |
| 9 July |
As a patriotic citizen, I always jump at the chance to bring the spirit of Americana to my kitchen, and in my opinion, there is just no better Fourth of July dessert than a flag cake, specifically the venerable Ina Garten’s version. A rich poundcake-like cake iced in cream cheese frosting and boldly emblazoned with berry stars and stripes is a winner in my book no matter what the occasion, and it’s quite simply fun to make in a baking-meets-arts-and-crafts type of way.
This cake is baked in a sheet pan; in my estimation it easily serves over 50 people (note: careful with transport…this cake is heavy!), and is a true a crowd pleaser, being not only tasty but visually appealing, as well. All in all, a perfect accompaniment to any holiday, any time, any country!
PS–feel free to play around with the decor. I used a single row of raspberries, laying them horizontally and then piped out my stars and stripes using an Arteco #34 star tip.
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| 3 July |
I don’t wanna grow up, but I do want to eat these peanut butter bars and I want those of you who will be outdoors having picnics and watching fireworks this 4th of July to eat them too! It’s always a challenge to find an appropriate dessert for outdoor dining. You know, one that doesn’t require utensils (cake), melt in your hand (chocolate), or expire without refrigeration (cheesecake bars). I’ve experimented with all of the aforementioned desserts and will never again! These bars are neat and clean and require zero upkeep or preparation once you’ve packed them away in your basket. What could be more all American than a PB&J bar you ask? I dare you to try. Note – apple pie doesn’t count.
This year I will not be partaking in the usual extra long pool day from which you return crispy and pink to shower unnecessarily and return to the 90 degree evening sauna, I mean cookout, to eat an assortment of grilled meats and watch fireworks. I can remember peeking at the pig turning on the spit, begging for round two of ice cream, and finally lying on the golf course in my parents neighborhood watching the fireworks shoot off over the lake I grew up daring to fish and swim in and eventually getting sick from… The first time I brought a date to said cookout is also very clear, as is the first time I drank beforehand, my Dad chasing my friends and I down the street shocked and concerned for our safety after taking note of the mostly empty status of the rum bottle hiding in the freezer. Alas, this year I will be celebrating with my college friends in the City of Brotherly Love lest I forget Sisterly Affection for 4th of July Wedding Reunion numero dos. There will be no PB & J bars for me, but I have no doubt that the Ice Cream Festival, parade, fireworks, and “largest free concert in America” featuring Sheryl Crow will keep us more than entertained!
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