This recipe is tried and true - the best ginger cookie recipe I have ever used. I love the blend of ground ginger, cloves, and cinnamon in this recipe. It all creates a complex cookie that's not too sweet. The molasses and butter contribute to the chewy gooey goodness...
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Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins
Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins have been on my mind for a while now. I finally had a few overripe bananas (see below on how overripe) so I could experiment with some recipes! It's been so rainy the past few weeks that I've been able to catch up on a few different...
Strawberry Sorbet
It's almost Memorial Day Weekend! Strawberry sorbet made from fresh strawberries is one of my favorite dessert components of all time. I love using this strawberry sorbet recipe for client dinners. The sweet and refreshing sorbet pairs so well with so many different...
Classic Tiramisu with Marsala and Mascarpone
I love tiramisu in all forms, but the classic combination of ladyfingers, chocolate, coffee, and custard is my favorite. This recipe deviates from the original by adding masala to the custard, and by soaking the ladyfingers in espresso and marsala rather than just...
Homemade Ladyfingers or Sponge Cake
Homemade ladyfingers are quite easy to make. To make things even easier, I take this recipe and spread it out onto a prepared 1/2 sheet tray. This way you don't need a piping bag or tip. You can cut squares using a knife, or cut with biscuit cutters to fit whatever...
Cinnamon Ice Cream
This is a classic cinnamon ice cream. Egg yolks and a mix of heavy cream and half and half make this rich and decadent. So I'm giving you the disclaimer now: if you're the type of person that likes the "light" or "fake" ice cream stuff -- go get some fro-yo. This...
Easy Flourless Chocolate Cake
If you're looking for an easy flourless chocolate cake recipe, look no further! This dense and fudgy cake is best served cold with a light dollop of sweetened whipped cream and fresh berries. A client of mine asked for this as an add-on to a wine tasting and tapas...
Pound Cake Bites – The Best Accident
These accidental pound cake bites came about because it's The Somm Chef's birthday month, my birthday month, and the anniversary of Ian and I moving down to FL (and sort of the anniversary of The Somm Chef inception). In short - September of last year was quite the...
Homemade Hot Fudge – with Espresso
Hot fudge is one of those things you can buy at the store, yes. However, I've found that making it from scratch (while working in restaurants and for private events alike) adds so much more flavor and elevates any dessert. Sure, to your guests it adds extra care and...
Rosé Berry Betty
↓ Jump To Recipe I present to you the Rosé Berry Betty. A dessert that's like a crumble, but has the streusel topping in the middle as well as on top. Mind. Blown. It's the prefect blend of fruit, rosé, and streusel. What's not to love about this dessert? I really...
Pasteis De Nata – The Best Portuguese Dessert
(Pasteis de Nata is Pronounced Past-eesh De Nada) How we discovered Pasteis de Nata in Portugal Have you ever been to Portugal? If not -- add it to the top of your "post-covid travel plans" list. It is one of the most incredible countries I have ever visited. The...
THE LATEST & GREATEST
Vineyard {511} 2015 Cabernet: A Wine That Inspires
Calling all Cabernet lovers and wine aficionados alike! I recently experienced tasting the Vineyard 511 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon and I have to tell you about it. When my father-in-law asked what I thought of the wine, I told him that it was inspiring. As a wine...
A Somm’s Holiday Wine Picks
6 Holiday Wine Picks at a variety of prices for any Holiday occasion you may find yourself at. From 98-point Chardonnays to Nebbiolo Rosés, and impeccable under $50 Cabernets!
2015 Special Edition Rioja from Bodegas Casa Primicia Pensante
In the enchanting region of Rioja, where winemaking is an art, a true gem shines brightly. The 2015 Special Edition Rioja from the esteemed Bodegas Casa Primicia Pensante. This wine is not just any Rioja. It has earned the coveted title of Wine Enthusiast's #1 Rioja...
Let’s Talk About Sekt
Yep - Sekt. Today we're talking about Austria and Germany's response to Champagne, Sekt. So, Let's talk about all the good things and the bad things that may be. In the past, Sekt's reputation has been soiled as cheap (because there's a lot of poor Sekt wines made out...
Eggy Bread – aka: French Toast
French Toast, a beloved breakfast classic, has been delighting taste buds for generations. Its golden-brown exterior, fluffy interior, and versatility make it a cherished morning ritual for many. In this post, we'll explore the dish's history, the core ingredients,...
Perfectly Roasted Potatoes
These perfectly roasted potatoes are the best roasted potatoes I think I've ever had, or made. I cook them at a lower temperature for longer, to develop a crunchy, golden brown layer that looks almost like caramelized glass. The yukon gold potatoes give a creamy...
Chicken Salad Recipe
This Chicken Salad Recipe is a true kitchen essential, offering endless possibilities to cater to your taste preferences. Whether you crave extra crunch from celery, a hint of tart sweetness from apple, or a touch of curry for an exotic twist, this adaptable recipe...
Napa valley: 7 Tips Before You Go
Especially helpful if you've never been to Napa - but even if you have, maybe a tip or trick here can help take your next trip to the next level. Check out these 7 Tips to Know Before You Go. Tip 1: Choose Your Hotel Location Wisely Choosing the right location for...
Australian Chardonnay: Penfolds
If you're a Chardonnay lover, consider exploring Australian Chardonnay. From bright and fruity flavors, to complex and rich oak-aged expressions - this variety is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Let’s explore what makes it so unique. Australia is renowned for its...
Discover South African Chenin Blanc
Want to expand your wine horizons? Consider exploring South African Chenin Blanc! Whether you prefer a dry white or something more sweet, there’s a wide variety of styles on offer from this region. Let’s explore why they are so special. Chenin Blanc Overview Chenin...