Beignets- for Mardi Gras or Anytime

Posted by Gisele Perez on Feb 10, 2013, 10:09 am in Food and Drink, Recipes-Sweet | 9 comments

There are few treats more closely associated with New Orleans than beignets, and these are the best beignets I have ever had.

Winter Fruit Gratin

Posted by Gisele Perez on Jan 19, 2013, 6:08 pm in Food and Drink, Holiday Entertaining, Recipes-Sweet | 4 comments

This delicious, yet simple, fruit gratin with Lovoka Caramel Liquer is a perfect ending to rich meal.

Mom’s Tiny Tim Fruitcakes

Posted by Gisele Perez on Dec 31, 2012, 5:11 pm in Food and Drink, Holiday Entertaining, Recipes-Sweet | 2 comments

Mom’s Apple Nut Cake- Cupcakes this time!

Posted by Gisele Perez on Dec 28, 2012, 3:18 pm in Food and Drink, Recipes-Sweet | 4 comments

This Apple Nut Cake was my mother’s go to choice for potlucks when I was young. I’ve made them into cupcakes for a Christmas season potluck.

Noodle Kugel

Posted by Gisele Perez on Dec 14, 2012, 5:34 pm in Entertaining Trends, Holiday Entertaining, Recipes-Sweet | 2 comments

Noodle Kugel, an old favorite, can easily be adapted to “small plate” or tray passed portions.

Festive Bar Cookies- First in a Series of Mom’s Holiday Treats

Posted by Gisele Perez on Dec 9, 2012, 11:42 am in Food and Drink, Holiday Entertaining, Recipes-Sweet | 4 comments

I started making these holiday”Festive Bars” – a recipe I found in American Girl magazine – with my mother when I was about 10 years old.

Cranberry Pear Chutney- Just in Time for Thanksgiving!

Posted by Gisele Perez on Nov 19, 2012, 4:30 pm in Food and Drink, Holiday Entertaining, Recipes-Savory, Recipes-Sweet | 7 comments

This sweet, spicy and tart relish is perfect for Thanksgiving dinner, and a favorite of my family and clients.

Another Stop on the Way to Wine Country- Bocanova and the Very Best Strawberry Scones

Posted by Gisele Perez on Nov 8, 2012, 9:03 am in Food and Drink, Recipes-Sweet, Restaurants, Travel | 0 comments

A stop in Oakland on my way to Sonoma brought a wonderful brunch with friends at Bocanova where I dined on zingy Shrimp Ceviche and the best Strawberry Scones ever!

Peach Ice Cream

Posted by Gisele Perez on Aug 20, 2012, 3:37 pm in Recipes-Sweet, Travel | 6 comments

Got an abundance of peaches on a hot summer’s day? Make my grandmother’s favorite- peach ice cream.

Blenheim Apricot Upside Down Streusel Cake

Posted by Gisele Perez on Aug 9, 2012, 9:40 pm in Recipes-Sweet | 5 comments

The last Blenheim apricots of the season deserve this moist, upside down cake.