Vanilla Bean Sugar | Easy No Bake Homemade Gift... And Valentine's Sale!

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmO4_E0p840nLNg-acTSBNc9ngqtyfyQL456N0JNaGHUNon5VPJphK-ptVF3YaK4s-XaJswHk1M6HIUCsk598mZxWUEMSO-t0M-vm7Q2Oetr9FT2C52NOnMcDypcZzlTCVgtvRQzQsAq2e/s1600/IMG_6275.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmO4_E0p840nLNg-acTSBNc9ngqtyfyQL456N0JNaGHUNon5VPJphK-ptVF3YaK4s-XaJswHk1M6HIUCsk598mZxWUEMSO-t0M-vm7Q2Oetr9FT2C52NOnMcDypcZzlTCVgtvRQzQsAq2e/s1600/IMG_6275.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizfv2RXbhDgLX8z3mSMQjoFXNNQtTEH3THP6AmTGUSwcLnEVB3arYppo41-D2UEaO18t7ALc50ubZXL0JmTUipSv-lr6FOwwdfrr2FWAT31KuPVDRlRRBv8ev1YW3O9uN2MCn9o1zlT9pf/s1600/IMG_5814.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizfv2RXbhDgLX8z3mSMQjoFXNNQtTEH3THP6AmTGUSwcLnEVB3arYppo41-D2UEaO18t7ALc50ubZXL0JmTUipSv-lr6FOwwdfrr2FWAT31KuPVDRlRRBv8ev1YW3O9uN2MCn9o1zlT9pf/s1600/IMG_5814.jpg" width="266" /></a> As you may have guessed by now, I'm sort of a coffee person.  Anytime I'm making plans I always add it in : Getting out of bed for early cold morning walks are so much easier when envision the steaming coffee in my thermos.   I love going to Target just so I can get a latte while I shop (and Emma can have a "lollipop" aka cakepop) and browse.  There are not many activities that the thought of a hot cup of coffee or creamy cappucinno doesn't make better - everything seems a little more cozy and comforting when I'm clutching my coffee.  </div><br />Actually, now that I write this, it sounds a little nuts - is anyone else relating to this?  It is not <i>that</i> crazy... right?  I guess Starbucks' success answers that question.<br /><br />To further my point, I said to Mike just yesterday, "I think the Nespresso is my favorite gift of all time."   (This is <i>not</i> a sponsored post.)<br /><br />Maybe I am nuts.  <br /><br />Or maybe it is because I've been adding Vanilla Bean Sugar to the milk pre-frothing in my Aeroncinno and it whips it up so frothy, it is almost like hot vanilla bean whipped cream?<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiALlATYVhmnSef5MCkHXBWSVwmvhR4Vv5gxx2poWQA-edXj9jiAOjX_L18O-RSyXFjVBnww6MWApoKMZEFVKlupzMTwgIW1pzDPhBFyseBU0cltfsxqm_U4qab89xH6r4cTfASTtNxilkA/s1600/IMG_5806.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiALlATYVhmnSef5MCkHXBWSVwmvhR4Vv5gxx2poWQA-edXj9jiAOjX_L18O-RSyXFjVBnww6MWApoKMZEFVKlupzMTwgIW1pzDPhBFyseBU0cltfsxqm_U4qab89xH6r4cTfASTtNxilkA/s1600/IMG_5806.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The best part of this "recipe" is that it is not really a recipe at all.   It takes seconds to make.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFzcOxZjAUAUUz0R8-iQreeFZYRegcB06IINSDNXrFQbkr-GPpB4VlKwtYsm38FbF21rQE3Ea3r6E1TYtMUbCz7jTI0xVN93J5gKrmE1eQoHmXnB0femG7JdEFC1GVj0Aszo4gedjKxoXa/s1600/IMG_5807.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFzcOxZjAUAUUz0R8-iQreeFZYRegcB06IINSDNXrFQbkr-GPpB4VlKwtYsm38FbF21rQE3Ea3r6E1TYtMUbCz7jTI0xVN93J5gKrmE1eQoHmXnB0femG7JdEFC1GVj0Aszo4gedjKxoXa/s1600/IMG_5807.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> I used to make it by scraping vanilla beans, but my new favorite way is to add vanilla bean paste to sugar in the food processor (or blender or mixer) and mix until combined.   You can add as little or as much as you like.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqwUmwSoVtgSZon_5rjZQMoAQr2pSyZlbGFkDKsHGW4reqsXjC1zQLhRdoBwiEhtx0esNjXIOjimHONHq6L1MxFRYeSK2UI8pPGKzui7EfIxX_erdn2XvEEPD7hTT7RW8auMfHOm7dV3vw/s1600/IMG_6268.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqwUmwSoVtgSZon_5rjZQMoAQr2pSyZlbGFkDKsHGW4reqsXjC1zQLhRdoBwiEhtx0esNjXIOjimHONHq6L1MxFRYeSK2UI8pPGKzui7EfIxX_erdn2XvEEPD7hTT7RW8auMfHOm7dV3vw/s1600/IMG_6268.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUNW2RThO2jPbrLQnlu3uJlhAMtMdXUNWI7Ls0KHo2Q98XQCDDMMDabuKQltef23M5_83td57sEpQBwH0lNMWSYC_zqofsLeiuAv60oRQaIvNvOC0TZR_FhpHlSFI_0BUzYz9duajTBTl9/s1600/IMG_5821.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUNW2RThO2jPbrLQnlu3uJlhAMtMdXUNWI7Ls0KHo2Q98XQCDDMMDabuKQltef23M5_83td57sEpQBwH0lNMWSYC_zqofsLeiuAv60oRQaIvNvOC0TZR_FhpHlSFI_0BUzYz9duajTBTl9/s1600/IMG_5821.jpg" width="425" /></a><br />I put it in these Kraft "Coffee" Bags to give as gifts.  Literally the easiest gift to make. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj4zHNh1aspErI1i3SXtHUlO3BXF3DPY08qenDnz10q4DpyyD4zYQ0y_vPUeMo85l6uIRVLV7VSx-jlwhzvz2b0ZyVOkKl66E4HHdgpMd05bH4aYzb_4_pHtaKb1JCqOxpTgzCeggePxWb/s1600/IMG_6271.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj4zHNh1aspErI1i3SXtHUlO3BXF3DPY08qenDnz10q4DpyyD4zYQ0y_vPUeMo85l6uIRVLV7VSx-jlwhzvz2b0ZyVOkKl66E4HHdgpMd05bH4aYzb_4_pHtaKb1JCqOxpTgzCeggePxWb/s1600/IMG_6271.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />It is ready to be added to coffee or  used for baking.  As I said, I add a good tablespoon or two to my pre-frothed milk for my lattes.<br /><br /> <img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip7vTpSK1kcjfaHwJPMNhrNgBTxVG_aCbVp3CfWpQWUlqE4mpfUaNlVK-d2HQA1FKV2ZJ2o978Y2PYkVLN_54Flp72Ad09_RQMGN5SpeWThNG9ZeadSv1RiaWwDL-OeWhyTWivo5-PPdFR/s640/IMG_6128.JPG" width="640" /><br /><br />Or for <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/01/vanilla-bean-paste-this-will-change.html">Vanilla Bean Scones</a>...<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2-7rqh3KEdF6chmdtVXl-laiK1Lms6rGBjCpQCAwLU6-e_tSMRLR7qnA_hhskKUc20_BPTXyv5ZNby_fRKIjI2Ux0KNfMXz_JpNDL3lsw3YrKq92QDA35_zkzpq1aELv5RSnLnJH6JTmH/s1600/IMG_6274.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2-7rqh3KEdF6chmdtVXl-laiK1Lms6rGBjCpQCAwLU6-e_tSMRLR7qnA_hhskKUc20_BPTXyv5ZNby_fRKIjI2Ux0KNfMXz_JpNDL3lsw3YrKq92QDA35_zkzpq1aELv5RSnLnJH6JTmH/s1600/IMG_6274.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />You can see how frothy the milk is and laced with the tiny vanilla beans from the Vanilla Bean Paste.<br /><br /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj91KvVTVSoq2uS1xmonWCZneCkwexBtqw9TuZUT5i9MyUIKbVAMubTGqzUkwTorblVBY5HJv4KIIgUwcnzfHmEpBcXZiQLimp5gHxmng2FmB_pkgn_L0MVnpOa6jgmBr9ZDBlOH5sEHFOY/s1600/IMG_5913.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj91KvVTVSoq2uS1xmonWCZneCkwexBtqw9TuZUT5i9MyUIKbVAMubTGqzUkwTorblVBY5HJv4KIIgUwcnzfHmEpBcXZiQLimp5gHxmng2FmB_pkgn_L0MVnpOa6jgmBr9ZDBlOH5sEHFOY/s1600/IMG_5913.jpg" width="266" /></a><br /><br /><br />Supplies Needed :<br /><br /><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/valentines/products/kraft-coffee-bags">Kraft Coffee Bags (set of 20), $10-12</a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/valentines/products/vanilla-bean-paste">Vanilla Bean Paste, $12</a><br /><br /><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/valentines/products/vanilla-sugar-label">Vanilla Sugar Labels, On Sale $4 </a><br /><br /><br /><br />Granulated Sugar<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdTdea3vxDQlUKs-C_KztpA-1dhTNYrYcOtaQAMck4CUMhVmDolkapQbYGznfpWLaO8gC_72wKErz8v2Lk5pczG8DWPYJLoWYyr8XuTMNQ5C7yrbfYh0bOe-s_rOYG4CFTwnM6-vLUvUGF/s1600/IMG_6244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdTdea3vxDQlUKs-C_KztpA-1dhTNYrYcOtaQAMck4CUMhVmDolkapQbYGznfpWLaO8gC_72wKErz8v2Lk5pczG8DWPYJLoWYyr8XuTMNQ5C7yrbfYh0bOe-s_rOYG4CFTwnM6-vLUvUGF/s1600/IMG_6244.jpg" width="213" /></a>Tomorrow is the last day for Valentine's Day orders... and I have a couple of things on sale:<br /> </div><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/valentines/products/rosy-lip-gloss-pink-ribbon-grosgrain-double-faced-satin-ribbon-50-yards">Rosy Lip Gloss Pink Ribbons, $8-20</a><br /><br /><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/valentines/products/1-1-2-double-faced-satin-ribbon-100-yards">Vermont Red Ribbons, $8-20</a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7LITGy1MY0Q0FWA3Z4IFIp-FDsse0_-5U1RxDLAghFtxsJjr6Hw29XzhuB5PfbTzn4IeHZKQsLwrn8QHBFnhAR9QShF47u99NNFYLyvwNyOAxwcsG4koOQsPto-clipWyitd23XAwOVRJ/s1600/IMG_5905.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7LITGy1MY0Q0FWA3Z4IFIp-FDsse0_-5U1RxDLAghFtxsJjr6Hw29XzhuB5PfbTzn4IeHZKQsLwrn8QHBFnhAR9QShF47u99NNFYLyvwNyOAxwcsG4koOQsPto-clipWyitd23XAwOVRJ/s1600/IMG_5905.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/valentines/products/baker-s-twine-240-yd">Rosy Lip Gloss Pink Bakers' Twine, $14</a><br /><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/valentines/products/baker-s-twine-240-yd"><br /></a><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/valentines/products/baker-s-twine-240-yd">Vermont Red Bakers' Twine, $14<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixCNW8-7bRjzpQBpYCrm4LmxDxT3W_sRCEOJ1_jQBWUNFI0zTVOL-V735puz0Knu2iN1n8RXks78GTqXl3jBRfz5rOB0X0OpRydLyeRqPKOuXqhgrPFuEgz6EoN7_P-TZEo8KoWSIdn8cS/s1600/IMG_5831.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixCNW8-7bRjzpQBpYCrm4LmxDxT3W_sRCEOJ1_jQBWUNFI0zTVOL-V735puz0Knu2iN1n8RXks78GTqXl3jBRfz5rOB0X0OpRydLyeRqPKOuXqhgrPFuEgz6EoN7_P-TZEo8KoWSIdn8cS/s1600/IMG_5831.jpg" width="213" /></a><br /><br />Emma's Room Pink Celebration Candles :<br /><br /><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/valentines/products/celebration-candles-6">6" Celebration Candles, $5.50</a><br /><br /><a href="http://everyday-occasions.myshopify.com/collections/valentines/products/celebration-candles-15-tall">15" Celebration Candles, $12.00</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Don't forget- I have $5 Shipping on any order : )

Vanilla Bean Sugar | Easy No Bake Homemade Gift... And Valentine's Sale!

As you may have guessed by now, I'm sort of a coffee person.  Anytime I'm making plans I always add it in : Getting out of bed for ...

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Mimi's Creamy & Dreamy Hot Chocolate

<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZe2U_ptQSwah3pAQ9FzMw8magcip_bLWEsGzc9ZRcCNlWUi6AoJIsY5hXqltVrSq-B28NrIdNJPxbbzyZTn0xCzFkJBYiAGcwZohfueZl67iyOiC3H5-Az9LmZHR_ToKh3pQCbREX5bTv/s1600/IMG_5408.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZe2U_ptQSwah3pAQ9FzMw8magcip_bLWEsGzc9ZRcCNlWUi6AoJIsY5hXqltVrSq-B28NrIdNJPxbbzyZTn0xCzFkJBYiAGcwZohfueZl67iyOiC3H5-Az9LmZHR_ToKh3pQCbREX5bTv/s640/IMG_5408.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />We woke up to a new blanket of snow yesterday - a fresh way to start the new year and romanticize remaining (potentially long...) winter months.  As I've said, I actually love the quiet, coziness of January and February - warm soups, snuggly days, and hot chocolate.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixzGtmCsj0AesFJApTuOEJNtxSUKdRRF_Ne6a-QIpQ0-xn8kz8eT4uuPKLxySXXnq2W-R6opFD1xvS1Y_BaSppuPbpI5S-I7aoOERm1FN2Mb1Z1NCopJjcZ9otlslGuXxjB8ITcwGJUevY/s1600/IMG_5398.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixzGtmCsj0AesFJApTuOEJNtxSUKdRRF_Ne6a-QIpQ0-xn8kz8eT4uuPKLxySXXnq2W-R6opFD1xvS1Y_BaSppuPbpI5S-I7aoOERm1FN2Mb1Z1NCopJjcZ9otlslGuXxjB8ITcwGJUevY/s640/IMG_5398.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />Mike's parents are not coffee drinkers.  (Which happens to be the exact opposite of my parents, who start their morning with a full pot, then move to K-cups throughout the day and finish with decaf at night.)  But Mike's Mom & Dad do love real, decadent hot chocolate.  Joy (his mom, Emma's Mimi) recently shared her new favorite Hot Chocolate recipe, titled "Cream & Dreamy Hot Chocolate."  It is just that, so creamy and silky, hot chocolate "...as thick and rich as melted chocolate bars," - ok, not quite that rich, but it's a quote from Polar Express that I've read to Emma no less than 4 times a day for the past month.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSMUTrs2pKhR1oUH41gQuZK_bzy03i43xbwQXZGSHNubLiuFIzladDVrkkQ8xw6zsJtBm3qSOvf58oGyKUGwr_-qnyVC3YZEvWIxMEoz5tVwDCmx9ipYoNsjSn6aTZfOkiL6Yo90OOhgoN/s1600/IMG_5395.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSMUTrs2pKhR1oUH41gQuZK_bzy03i43xbwQXZGSHNubLiuFIzladDVrkkQ8xw6zsJtBm3qSOvf58oGyKUGwr_-qnyVC3YZEvWIxMEoz5tVwDCmx9ipYoNsjSn6aTZfOkiL6Yo90OOhgoN/s640/IMG_5395.jpg" width="424" /></a>One reason this is such a fabulous recipe is that it is very easy (no chopping chocolate) and it can keep in the refrigerator for quite a while (maybe a week plus?) so you can make one cup at a time to enjoy.  However, I have made it with milk (instead of water) and it is even more cream and dreamy than the original - but using the milk does shorten its lifespan... which wasn't a problem around here, as we're already on our third batch.  <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGwUJ3GoqGsoQZuHym9r-85CNw9A3USATnCEPaTSxBsu7GhsVC3gV5MFRNVwMvTBWU6nb1ptpWi0tmaRmggkKM_3bFJjSQ4zKPeYalx0qF9Gg-Wk-xY_DEzZnwE_txmi7UGXEKDJtQ9YW7/s1600/IMG_5390.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGwUJ3GoqGsoQZuHym9r-85CNw9A3USATnCEPaTSxBsu7GhsVC3gV5MFRNVwMvTBWU6nb1ptpWi0tmaRmggkKM_3bFJjSQ4zKPeYalx0qF9Gg-Wk-xY_DEzZnwE_txmi7UGXEKDJtQ9YW7/s640/IMG_5390.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br />My favorite thing to do is put the cold mixture into my Nespresso Aeroccino.  It whips it up into a delicious creamy froth - no whip cream needed.  You can do the same thing with a whisk after heating it on the stove or in the microwave.  I've made a couple adjustments to the original recipe - I added a little bit more salt, and I use Vanilla Bean Paste instead of extract for that real vanilla bean essence. <br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZE-IfDQyyOtcwfyq1Wp1-utVEtBQraafDBuW8vNIFb-1uE3WoO5s_Hh2AwM_6pElUv5rl3Qv95kEaKDYBtFrAWWBsTfG5EPiL0YSfeUl0xuFLspvO1SCY5ibJPvXry1Ys2tJe8lujKPXj/s1600/hot-choc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZE-IfDQyyOtcwfyq1Wp1-utVEtBQraafDBuW8vNIFb-1uE3WoO5s_Hh2AwM_6pElUv5rl3Qv95kEaKDYBtFrAWWBsTfG5EPiL0YSfeUl0xuFLspvO1SCY5ibJPvXry1Ys2tJe8lujKPXj/s640/hot-choc.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><i>Creamy & Dreamy </i><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Hot Chocolate</span><br /><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2014%2F01%2Fmimis-creamy-dreamy-hot-chocolate.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-UUJKfA8RBVk%2FUscFx4ofi-I%2FAAAAAAAAVWI%2FLK7r3dqYjVU%2Fs640%2Fhot-choc.jpg&description=The%20Easiest%20Creamiest%20Hot%20Chocolate%20Recipe"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pinit_fg_en_rect_gray_20.png" /></a><br /><br />1/4 teaspoon sea salt<br />1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste (or extract)<br />1/2 cup of unsweetened cocoa<br />1 (14 ounce) can Sweetened Condensed Milk<br />6 cups of hot water (or milk)<br />Mini Marshmallows<br /><br />In a large saucepan, combine sweetened condensed milk, cocoa, vanilla and salt; mix well.  Over medium heat, slowly stir in water; heat through, stirring occasionally.  Do not boil.  Top with marshmallows. <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH6CofuBB8OXKnoDZzvTzcpBgmac9g8CAbq3e-bcvia3tH4HXE1yWIWvDi574hpYK01IW6MGLj1f8MTdKu8g-Pa6SVUw6IQzTWadSJeyBJ82cYWyxeZHcJ4zi1nSHXOvvj4AoB631ur_FK/s1600/IMG_5278.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH6CofuBB8OXKnoDZzvTzcpBgmac9g8CAbq3e-bcvia3tH4HXE1yWIWvDi574hpYK01IW6MGLj1f8MTdKu8g-Pa6SVUw6IQzTWadSJeyBJ82cYWyxeZHcJ4zi1nSHXOvvj4AoB631ur_FK/s640/IMG_5278.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM9FHmpt-Nlljz1zAab-rBznNcaOfn4TezPjjVBP55NK093b1HHT9mk_Dmq_keMrVYM8o7-p7n_qTln3oyZo1jeIMkmqio0K7Nb9L7YNcYt2lnDKFySHxWvBicrO5ypoqmY-ZbT3EyXfVt/s1600/IMG_5351.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM9FHmpt-Nlljz1zAab-rBznNcaOfn4TezPjjVBP55NK093b1HHT9mk_Dmq_keMrVYM8o7-p7n_qTln3oyZo1jeIMkmqio0K7Nb9L7YNcYt2lnDKFySHxWvBicrO5ypoqmY-ZbT3EyXfVt/s640/IMG_5351.jpg" width="425" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />I love baby hands holding Hot Chocolate... looks like me clutching my latte.  Wonder what she is pondering? <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicJqJ-EyqmN8P6gDFUUDhbLzNFetvRLGYDoDGRRyBYnMo5WFyV12qlBj_94gA3u8FAtKYOTyyhYPXRUBRjZCY3ZJC2EiM4f3BuClqrP76HMg12KOeAH_XNQM8Ya-8pkI9FnDqBZof0P4iE/s1600/IMG_5348.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicJqJ-EyqmN8P6gDFUUDhbLzNFetvRLGYDoDGRRyBYnMo5WFyV12qlBj_94gA3u8FAtKYOTyyhYPXRUBRjZCY3ZJC2EiM4f3BuClqrP76HMg12KOeAH_XNQM8Ya-8pkI9FnDqBZof0P4iE/s640/IMG_5348.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br /> Yum.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG23xW1B1YsYlyadfI8HlODYJCQX2neeoB1bpetg1S9zGEFSwbCjutkyHR56tO3dAJOEYaSBt883UQUPOKwKUXIo-mg17ymGyQTr1bi6pTDQuyv0TZrF1cfCzxKEK_QBlROMR-YkJFv87d/s1600/IMG_5333.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG23xW1B1YsYlyadfI8HlODYJCQX2neeoB1bpetg1S9zGEFSwbCjutkyHR56tO3dAJOEYaSBt883UQUPOKwKUXIo-mg17ymGyQTr1bi6pTDQuyv0TZrF1cfCzxKEK_QBlROMR-YkJFv87d/s640/IMG_5333.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Happy Snow Day!<br /><br /><script async="" src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

Mimi's Creamy & Dreamy Hot Chocolate

We woke up to a new blanket of snow yesterday - a fresh way to start the new year and romanticize remaining (potentially long...) winter mon...

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Salted Sticky Toffee Caramel Spice Cake with Vanilla Bean Whipped Cream

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi04hDS1zBhPwadpSD-4m9GCA5993C9l0xzpxlw6_6x0JwoMGQd3rp1LfZLdMgy7uiwvW_2zmrjX3S7DY3CUpulTaxJB84Hu5CyxP9VecnWuBu2dz68wDLMpEJcYXNgHRN1mPLrlPaPMQjX/s1600/IMG_2657.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi04hDS1zBhPwadpSD-4m9GCA5993C9l0xzpxlw6_6x0JwoMGQd3rp1LfZLdMgy7uiwvW_2zmrjX3S7DY3CUpulTaxJB84Hu5CyxP9VecnWuBu2dz68wDLMpEJcYXNgHRN1mPLrlPaPMQjX/s1600/IMG_2657.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj63ZxbXC9MGFhicHJhFAAPRKJEkp3hSuFzA_25mVyUCMmq94SXCsuhDzEVL7xApGsD57k1l0xeQW4RKZgJW8SsvKe8l-rB0bDuezbiUbnrFKrSH7peGN8Eo8SrB87mw8hF41INK1NpjyYw/s1600/IMG_2694.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj63ZxbXC9MGFhicHJhFAAPRKJEkp3hSuFzA_25mVyUCMmq94SXCsuhDzEVL7xApGsD57k1l0xeQW4RKZgJW8SsvKe8l-rB0bDuezbiUbnrFKrSH7peGN8Eo8SrB87mw8hF41INK1NpjyYw/s1600/IMG_2694.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>This was a fantastic cake.  I feel like I can say that because I borrowed each element from some of my favorite recipes (of others).  The cake itself was derived from my favorite Chocolate Cake that was inspired by Tessa from <a href="http://nineandsixteen.blogspot.com/">Nine and Sixteen</a> (I've mentioned it before - one of my favorite blogs.  Good genuine lovely family life).  I took out the cocoa and coffee and added fall spices - cinnamon, nutmeg and ground clove.   <br /><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F10%2Fsalted-sticky-toffee-caramel-spice-cake.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-ZNAdFJHjdFc%2FUmCpRAi_dpI%2FAAAAAAAAUPg%2FizZUNYex7LQ%2Fs1600%2FSalted-Caramel-Cake.jpg&description=Salted%20Sticky%20Toffee%20Caramel%20Spice%20Cake%20-%20The%20Easiest%20Caramel%20Sauce"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><br />It is a moist and fabulous cake - good on its own, but better when topped with caramel sauce.  Salted Sticky Toffee Caramel Sauce.<br /><br />This sauce was borrowed from the Barefoot Contessa's "Sticky Toffee Date Cake" - it is crazy easy to make... no boiling (burning) sugar like most caramel sauces.  I added sea salt to it to make it extra tempting.  And Vanilla Bean Whipped Cream.  Serve it warm, with extra warm sauce poured over... such a treat for these first cool Fall nights.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPOyNM60fyZFGyCF1tnp_sqEWRXIRfv_VLPWJCn3WTMwAb7S7EuOrhtlh5ahyphenhyphenT8ZcuGUqwG4X3u6Oul4RtJBQUL1UeZBQBThXY2VSNu-0sPE3syNw1U5hJpqAnhbU-TZKzEuQLERynJ9dh/s1600/Salted-Caramel-Cake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPOyNM60fyZFGyCF1tnp_sqEWRXIRfv_VLPWJCn3WTMwAb7S7EuOrhtlh5ahyphenhyphenT8ZcuGUqwG4X3u6Oul4RtJBQUL1UeZBQBThXY2VSNu-0sPE3syNw1U5hJpqAnhbU-TZKzEuQLERynJ9dh/s1600/Salted-Caramel-Cake.jpg" width="426" /></a></div><i>Salted Sticky Toffee Caramel</i><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Spice Cake </span><br /><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F10%2Fsalted-sticky-toffee-caramel-spice-cake.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-ZNAdFJHjdFc%2FUmCpRAi_dpI%2FAAAAAAAAUPg%2FizZUNYex7LQ%2Fs1600%2FSalted-Caramel-Cake.jpg&description=Salted%20Sticky%20Toffee%20Caramel%20Spice%20Cake%20-%20The%20Easiest%20Caramel%20Sauce"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><br /><i>New! <a href="http://mad.ly/signups/118273/join"><span style="background-color: #f7f7f8;">Printable Recipes</span>, here.</a></i><br /><br />1 cup sugar<br />2 cups flour<br />1 tsp baking powder<br />1 tsp baking soda<br />1/2 tsp salt<br />1 teaspoon cinnamon<br />1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg<br />pinch of ground cloves<br />2 eggs<br />1 cup milk<br />6 tablespoons of melted butter<br />1 tsp vanilla<br />...<br /><div>1/2 pound butter<br />1 cup brown sugar<br />1/2 cup heavy cream<br />1 teaspoon vanilla</div><div>1 teaspoon of sea salt </div><br />....<br /><br /><i>Vanilla Bean </i><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Whipped Cream</span><br /><div><br /></div><div>1 cup of whipping cream</div><div>1 tablespoon of sugar</div><div>1 teaspoon of vanilla bean paste</div><div><br /></div><div>Whip the cold cream and sugar in the mixer with the whisk attachment until almost stiff - then add vanilla bean paste.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW-DipVDVrS5hbI79g8zoiLZr-Z7ISDN0nCmMqrlcVYPOFXn6rkqZ4lGU-r-RdXOdiCsxlKZX1z9XGJhIDkk2rK1gwRXRYf5hKAJnYAYfKbciM1NBJo3eFVjV-SQXM8BwJOYVxM3kYdGPL/s1600/IMG_2651.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW-DipVDVrS5hbI79g8zoiLZr-Z7ISDN0nCmMqrlcVYPOFXn6rkqZ4lGU-r-RdXOdiCsxlKZX1z9XGJhIDkk2rK1gwRXRYf5hKAJnYAYfKbciM1NBJo3eFVjV-SQXM8BwJOYVxM3kYdGPL/s1600/IMG_2651.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />In a mixer, combine sugar, flour, baking powder, soda, salt and spices.  Stir to combine.  Add egg, milk, melted butter and vanilla.  Mix on low until combined.  Beat for 1 minute on medium high. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLTiuuavVFYpIu_MIvR-Mlhg1omeIDw0snfUEHpbKtxzZrNe4i9J5tDy3H8ZSfV8L0lHKjbCOcEJnlSgX2HiO8tQzZGJ6X5gvo_m9uH8U1dIROBr9yMBt-3G21trlCxHzn_bAxjTb4i5-Y/s1600/IMG_2648.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLTiuuavVFYpIu_MIvR-Mlhg1omeIDw0snfUEHpbKtxzZrNe4i9J5tDy3H8ZSfV8L0lHKjbCOcEJnlSgX2HiO8tQzZGJ6X5gvo_m9uH8U1dIROBr9yMBt-3G21trlCxHzn_bAxjTb4i5-Y/s1600/IMG_2648.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br />Line a 8-inch round baking pan with parchment paper, or spray it with non-stick spray.  Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieyZ8AKJr5oyEDVbyP3BGC0SwDvdFyXvKcJ8nGp37dzw6LGkrSdWtFzOsoHssTJUSap4wiVYhVCPcqQSWjFY1eg9pH3xOwO9juD6xTaghpJ2s7cQmDnbAvRL9ZUk79UFCtB0HWeQDurwHD/s1600/IMG_2654.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieyZ8AKJr5oyEDVbyP3BGC0SwDvdFyXvKcJ8nGp37dzw6LGkrSdWtFzOsoHssTJUSap4wiVYhVCPcqQSWjFY1eg9pH3xOwO9juD6xTaghpJ2s7cQmDnbAvRL9ZUk79UFCtB0HWeQDurwHD/s1600/IMG_2654.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOfb74yg56eMrtPK5_y8DK1WCASRlLPBbIufh1yvooe1Oz8KCSZeDMmuGjcv4IVlJICIBTJ8kYMXnqGMXoxO7TiUGxEi7_uHwxYrDT0iAwgDAPwUHdjzYymHMXQgzT81ExydvGKGfczOBB/s1600/IMG_2656.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOfb74yg56eMrtPK5_y8DK1WCASRlLPBbIufh1yvooe1Oz8KCSZeDMmuGjcv4IVlJICIBTJ8kYMXnqGMXoxO7TiUGxEi7_uHwxYrDT0iAwgDAPwUHdjzYymHMXQgzT81ExydvGKGfczOBB/s1600/IMG_2656.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>Meanwhile, make the Salted Sticky Toffee Caramel Sauce - it is the easiest caramel sauce you'll ever make.  <br /><div></div><div><br />Combine the butter, brown sugar, cream and vanilla in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring it to a simmer, then lower the heat, stirring until slightly thickened.  Remove from heat.</div><div></div><div><div>When the cake comes out of the oven, let it cool for 10 minutes, then remove it and transfer the warm cake onto the cake plate.  Poke holes in the top with a toothpick, then pour half of the sauce over the cake.  Reserve the rest to serve with each slice.   </div><div><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPItsg-1a0AAjQN8kPlnPK4Hrnmiliq9IC-DnuLH27v8Cooq_J1nizejSjAp4gbEuC0lwAi-Y_sujQAJTnicbz3UExLBUobUDjSO8CHJ-qrSh0_V8ypgbQb4S-eDgkgyCNaQGH11aja1B1/s1600/IMG_2685.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPItsg-1a0AAjQN8kPlnPK4Hrnmiliq9IC-DnuLH27v8Cooq_J1nizejSjAp4gbEuC0lwAi-Y_sujQAJTnicbz3UExLBUobUDjSO8CHJ-qrSh0_V8ypgbQb4S-eDgkgyCNaQGH11aja1B1/s1600/IMG_2685.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Serve warm if possible - I like to reheat the sauce (microwave or stove) and pour the hot sauce over each slice, then top with vanilla whipped cream.</div><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="https://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F10%2Fsalted-sticky-toffee-caramel-spice-cake.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-ZNAdFJHjdFc%2FUmCpRAi_dpI%2FAAAAAAAAUPg%2FizZUNYex7LQ%2Fs1600%2FSalted-Caramel-Cake.jpg&description=Salted%20Sticky%20Toffee%20Caramel%20Spice%20Cake%20-%20The%20Easiest%20Caramel%20Sauce"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuGkrczqWxGbVZ3S3uhyphenhyphenaz4LSY3K4prcZbubDuQ1nBwO_yf5QPBKM85iDXTeYIiEzpXmIKhQKmKTpVSkCHW-U30D8DarwdQRZ8w-e2Pd6kQu-7MDKSHa-0Jxxnr7Zcc2gkJ9W11G0O2Yr_/s1600/IMG_1430.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuGkrczqWxGbVZ3S3uhyphenhyphenaz4LSY3K4prcZbubDuQ1nBwO_yf5QPBKM85iDXTeYIiEzpXmIKhQKmKTpVSkCHW-U30D8DarwdQRZ8w-e2Pd6kQu-7MDKSHa-0Jxxnr7Zcc2gkJ9W11G0O2Yr_/s1600/IMG_1430.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /> What a way to wake up from a nap... sticky toffee fingers : ) <script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

Salted Sticky Toffee Caramel Spice Cake with Vanilla Bean Whipped Cream

This was a fantastic cake.  I feel like I can say that because I borrowed each element from some of my favorite recipes (of others).  The ...

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Fresh Peaches with Sugared Scones | And... My New Store Coming Soon!

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWXOLSvDWt-DGQefeE-gi96HHrerGxKDSIppcJvjLO2ulKl6UNq7xoFHVs03B2r8dp6Cw3IcIAmZVz7Mq_bFrTXZnHsRg8Lt14c2Wop6SuHHbyDaqZakFBvRrlfUVyGerawZSWVDKQLVk/s1600/IMG_9901.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWXOLSvDWt-DGQefeE-gi96HHrerGxKDSIppcJvjLO2ulKl6UNq7xoFHVs03B2r8dp6Cw3IcIAmZVz7Mq_bFrTXZnHsRg8Lt14c2Wop6SuHHbyDaqZakFBvRrlfUVyGerawZSWVDKQLVk/s640/IMG_9901.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />For last weekend's brunch I wanted to serve a dessert that was early day appropriate.  I thought about strawberry shortcake, but the local strawberry season has faded and I'm not a huge fan of shortcakes... but I do love scones (no surprise, right?).  And what about peaches?   Are peach shortcakes a thing?   <br /><br />You'll notice in the photos that I've switched from using the silpat baking liner to pre-cut sheets of parchment paper.  We used them at the bakery I worked at in college.  I'm crazy about them - no cleaning and non-stick.  They are so nice to have around for packaging, too - work great for wrapping up loafs of banana bread.  I love them so much that they are going to be one of the items I am going to stock in my new... store!<br /><br />That's right.  I've been working on developing an online shop to be part of the blog that will contain all of my favorite things and things that I always get inquiries about.  I'll carry a variety of "everyday essentials" (like the parchment liners, hemstitch napkins, linen tea towels, candles, kraft cookie/cupcake boxes, etc.), mailable gifts and special seasonal items as well (like cozy throws and pillows in the Fall, and goodies gift packaging for the Holidays).  I'm also designing some custom products that I will carry, too.  I'd love your input on what you'd like to see in my store!  <br /><br />Back to the scones :  <br /><br />To make the simple scone a little more special, I added almond extract and crunchy sanding sugar.  The sugar gives great texture and crunch to the fluffy and moist scone.  To put it over the edge, I topped it with vanilla bean whipped cream.  <br /><br />I can't tell you how good this is.  Silly good and very, very simple.  I think this is what shortcake is actually supposed to taste like!  I highly recommend baking them just before serving (they only take 10-12 minutes) so they are hot and fresh with the cold peaches and whipped cream - or ice cream.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGhujVniA_15NE1TnMbW80i3flW6HDKPNf41dH3IusmhOqFeqo9yHAEXVdZXpEQVzZNbW9r-u2VnPcyvASCLU6BLlQd8Hr9m-CX1XFs42IaJEPmDTnVLeCqr-hV4qfExcmTd3kdJdhbOE/s1600/peach-scones.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGhujVniA_15NE1TnMbW80i3flW6HDKPNf41dH3IusmhOqFeqo9yHAEXVdZXpEQVzZNbW9r-u2VnPcyvASCLU6BLlQd8Hr9m-CX1XFs42IaJEPmDTnVLeCqr-hV4qfExcmTd3kdJdhbOE/s640/peach-scones.jpg" width="425" /></a><br /><br />Fresh Peaches with<br /><i><span style="font-size: large;">Sugared Scones</span></i><br />and Vanilla Bean Whipped Cream<br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F07%2Ffresh-peaches-with-sugared-scones-and.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-42a2BBBB9s4%2FUehAik-BonI%2FAAAAAAAATAo%2Fwmqa_WJWEsI%2Fs640%2Fpeach-scones.jpg&description=Fresh%20Peaches%20with%20Sugared%20Scones%20and%20Vanilla%20Bean%20Whipped%20Cream"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br />makes 12 small scones<br /><br />2 cups plus 1/4 cup all-purpose flour<br />1/3 cup sugar<br />1 tablespoon baking powder<br />1/2 teaspoon sea salt<br />12 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, diced<br />2 extra-large eggs, lightly beaten<br />1/2 cup cold heavy cream<br />1 teaspoon of vanilla<br />...<br />egg yolk<br />course sanding sugar<br />....<br />1 cup of heavy cream<br />2 tablespoons of sugar<br />1 teaspoon of vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract)<br />....<br />fresh peaches<br />sugar<br />lemon juice<br /><br />In a mixer, combine flour, sugar, baking powder and salt using the paddle attachment.  Cut the cold butter into 1/2 inch pieces.  Add the butter to the dry ingredients and mix on low until the butter is mixed in and is the size of peas.  In a separate bowl, mix together eggs, whipping cream and vanilla with a fork.  Turn the mixer on low and slowly add the cream and egg mixture.  Turn off the mixer once added.<br /><br />Turn the dough out onto the floured surface.  Divide into 2.  Add some flour onto the top of the dough, then pat it out into a 2 disks - about 6 inches in diameter.  Cut the disks into 6 pieces like a pie.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO-X3xzvrb5a1Al-ZywFKJ40-ATsG-tsZ6MCoPJBz5AddavylvZ1ni8aNEuOIKU3OrUkRJ7M1iB9y6UrIAoYk4deTIogovXGfmJdgsk64CbbwSIvekaXR861bE87fsMEq9Lo26L4nzFDE/s1600/IMG_9883.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO-X3xzvrb5a1Al-ZywFKJ40-ATsG-tsZ6MCoPJBz5AddavylvZ1ni8aNEuOIKU3OrUkRJ7M1iB9y6UrIAoYk4deTIogovXGfmJdgsk64CbbwSIvekaXR861bE87fsMEq9Lo26L4nzFDE/s640/IMG_9883.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Separate the pieces and put them on a parchment lined baking sheet.  Brush on a little bit of a beaten egg yolk, then top with sanding sugar.<br /><br />Bake at 400 degrees for 10-12 minutes.    <br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCBG0KkFlnq6QV2A5vii6sjaxRUyNjA0Fjw5V3uQ4dh1zMVANjyynpMz3b9kTiC7NpjlcuMQD_GFFhPINCBrvNAoBOe9Ch6qLzvi9wueOVxBSE9jPeRGZLDxjZFXbDcfLnX7MUPWRCYkY/s1600/IMG_9889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCBG0KkFlnq6QV2A5vii6sjaxRUyNjA0Fjw5V3uQ4dh1zMVANjyynpMz3b9kTiC7NpjlcuMQD_GFFhPINCBrvNAoBOe9Ch6qLzvi9wueOVxBSE9jPeRGZLDxjZFXbDcfLnX7MUPWRCYkY/s640/IMG_9889.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />They are non-stick, too.  Perfect for cookies and scones, of course.  <br />  <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR3MCKuJ7MrQCMF9sG5M0YVlLRKEsW1WMlo0WCG_vdK8R5lYCazIv9JpyLOK2vNnk0CdTEuN7NGgGhvMCEZJzFBK9MioyJptUzreAWisCh8kwzhnukucgh5p0z01rLP3Ocd-wtDxYsmRU/s1600/IMG_9907.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR3MCKuJ7MrQCMF9sG5M0YVlLRKEsW1WMlo0WCG_vdK8R5lYCazIv9JpyLOK2vNnk0CdTEuN7NGgGhvMCEZJzFBK9MioyJptUzreAWisCh8kwzhnukucgh5p0z01rLP3Ocd-wtDxYsmRU/s640/IMG_9907.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />Whip heavy cream with sugar and vanilla bean paste until fluffy - about 3-4 minutes. <br /><br />Peel and slice peaches, then toss with lemon juice and sugar.  Serve scones sliced, topped with peaches and whipped cream. <br /><br /><a data-pin-config="beside" data-pin-do="buttonPin" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F07%2Ffresh-peaches-with-sugared-scones-and.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F-42a2BBBB9s4%2FUehAik-BonI%2FAAAAAAAATAo%2Fwmqa_WJWEsI%2Fs640%2Fpeach-scones.jpg&description=Fresh%20Peaches%20with%20Sugared%20Scones%20and%20Vanilla%20Bean%20Whipped%20Cream"><img src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/pidgets/pin_it_button.png" /></a><br /><br />Back to the store :<br /><br />I'd love your help as I make final selections for the store.  What items do I often feature in my photos that you'd love to buy?  What sort of things would you like to see me carry?<br /><br /><br />If you want to pre-order the parchment paper sheets, just leave me a comment and I'll set some aside for you.  I'm thinking they will run about $12 for 200 sheets (that should be a year supply!).  What do you think?  Is that reasonable?  I'm verrrry open to feedback, so please, fire away! <script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

Fresh Peaches with Sugared Scones | And... My New Store Coming Soon!

For last weekend's brunch I wanted to serve a dessert that was early day appropriate.  I thought about strawberry shortcake, but the lo...

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Salted Caramel Sauce | Caramel Apples with Simple Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce | Easy!

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJDKgmBT3ZAfLUQh5JJ8UZbEnVyuJFdUfYdADRcdWZdqgW727WmOsVNyi0sQJ495qop18gUN-E1WoyBm6QPn6H5I001-uu35DOdapvPP-gYdxHE08si0uILECuTq5_HHhsyU6PDjwqmFs4/s1600/IMG_9782.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJDKgmBT3ZAfLUQh5JJ8UZbEnVyuJFdUfYdADRcdWZdqgW727WmOsVNyi0sQJ495qop18gUN-E1WoyBm6QPn6H5I001-uu35DOdapvPP-gYdxHE08si0uILECuTq5_HHhsyU6PDjwqmFs4/s640/IMG_9782.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><a class="pin-it-button" count-layout="horizontal" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2012%2F10%2Fsalted-caramel-sauce-caramel-apples.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-QFPeFMrr9YA%2FUG20FRuFn3I%2FAAAAAAAAMyg%2F-3zCxkgUZXM%2Fs1600%2Fcaramel-sauce.jpg&description=Salted%20Caramel%20Sauce%20%7C%20Homemade%20Salted%20Caramel%20Sauce%20for%20Easy%20Fall%20Desserts%20or%20Caramel%20Apples%0A%0Ahttp%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2012%2F10%2Fsalted-caramel-sauce-caramel-apples.html"><img border="0" src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/PinExt.png" title="Pin It" /></a><br /><br /><br />Making homemade caramel sauce might sound difficult.  It's not... it takes minutes.  If you can boil water (and sugar) then you can make it.  It is even easier than unwrapping all of those caramels to melt - and so much better!  It is really is so delicious.<br /><br /> Especially when it is warm, right off of the spoon.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZj04jZfCIYwkGDae3l2AHMPmo6hvktQtT2GMdZPX1v_uSGQXKPlAwQOmwlwa_GRwWImm3fKZtjZlp-UvKU7jzN7fqbJ1iX5vQIEpydrgOJNE9phhXrOfeTKXB4ldVoJZjBc-pXR9kFW_h/s1600/IMG_9748.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZj04jZfCIYwkGDae3l2AHMPmo6hvktQtT2GMdZPX1v_uSGQXKPlAwQOmwlwa_GRwWImm3fKZtjZlp-UvKU7jzN7fqbJ1iX5vQIEpydrgOJNE9phhXrOfeTKXB4ldVoJZjBc-pXR9kFW_h/s640/IMG_9748.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br />There is something about the sea salt that adds so much flavor and the vanilla that brings out a warm sweet aroma. <br /><br />My new favorite vanilla products are <a href="http://www.rodellekitchen.com/">Rodelle</a>.  They have the most amazing selection of vanilla products - beans, extract, organic extract, vanilla sugar... so many special things!   And I really like their packaging... very important to keep the <a href="http://jennysteffens.blogspot.com/2012/05/baking-pantry-in-cabinet.html">baking pantry</a> lookin' good.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioNJAYmUiRbzRc2aaM2PsDUy4Gsxe-whpIddgb-r6szgqespHLCMVSBPvOEOIWaIV9kLbF9BPBmlhGHdec-50oetjy5PkJjdEkX_9sM6w8tVOEVd4cNWdAr-mcsYouNuznXQeZ4aw0-DXy/s1600/IMG_9791.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioNJAYmUiRbzRc2aaM2PsDUy4Gsxe-whpIddgb-r6szgqespHLCMVSBPvOEOIWaIV9kLbF9BPBmlhGHdec-50oetjy5PkJjdEkX_9sM6w8tVOEVd4cNWdAr-mcsYouNuznXQeZ4aw0-DXy/s640/IMG_9791.JPG" width="640" /></a> <br /><br />It takes just a little bit of effort and can be used on apples for a snack or on top vanilla ice cream with candied pecans for a quick and easy dessert.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5XYD7Zf9HtZl4TkydmPW7VJdqdl1RwB3nKahYlOUdcpl3wKtPjWrkQ-B24QgyvtQ9t2OPzX6qKbjP4ycojd_nAZeTlr87qZZuKR3Bz4nDLTJ4V0wJBnsw9HiPVWDx3Pd0he0s41mv4jPD/s1600/IMG_9775.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5XYD7Zf9HtZl4TkydmPW7VJdqdl1RwB3nKahYlOUdcpl3wKtPjWrkQ-B24QgyvtQ9t2OPzX6qKbjP4ycojd_nAZeTlr87qZZuKR3Bz4nDLTJ4V0wJBnsw9HiPVWDx3Pd0he0s41mv4jPD/s640/IMG_9775.JPG" width="640" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3l8CitiQpDHRhDq4UPhQEFU9h6LJgG__3lHJrc1L0mDEEVMUEAnph7-QCxQXQZ6JpQe9bewESgPPVMoWhZVbdofIG99h-IFruKyldgYeuKSYwm0giT1LhhSV28HcoPXdQMFZFLa27JNY-/s1600/IMG_9761.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3l8CitiQpDHRhDq4UPhQEFU9h6LJgG__3lHJrc1L0mDEEVMUEAnph7-QCxQXQZ6JpQe9bewESgPPVMoWhZVbdofIG99h-IFruKyldgYeuKSYwm0giT1LhhSV28HcoPXdQMFZFLa27JNY-/s400/IMG_9761.jpg" width="266" /></a><span style="font-size: large;">Homemade Caramel Sauce</span><br /><i>with vanilla and sea salt</i><br /><a class="pin-it-button" count-layout="horizontal" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2012%2F10%2Fsalted-caramel-sauce-caramel-apples.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-QFPeFMrr9YA%2FUG20FRuFn3I%2FAAAAAAAAMyg%2F-3zCxkgUZXM%2Fs1600%2Fcaramel-sauce.jpg&description=Salted%20Caramel%20Sauce%20%7C%20Homemade%20Salted%20Caramel%20Sauce%20for%20Easy%20Fall%20Desserts%20or%20Caramel%20Apples%0A%0Ahttp%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2012%2F10%2Fsalted-caramel-sauce-caramel-apples.html"><img border="0" src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/PinExt.png" title="Pin It" /></a><br /><br /><i>New! <a href="http://mad.ly/signups/118273/join"><span style="background-color: #f7f7f8;">Printable Recipes</span>, here.</a></i><br /><br />2 cups of sugar<br />1/4 cup of water<br />1 1/2 cup of heavy cream<br />2 teaspoons of sea salt<br />1 tablespoon of vanilla or the seeds from 1 vanilla bean<br /><br />In a saucepan, mix together sugar and water.  Heat on medium until the mixture begins to bubble (for about 3-5 minutes), then raise the heat to medium high.  Do not stir - only swirl the pan.  Cook for 5-7 minutes until it becomes light chestnut in color.  Again, do not stir, just swirl the pan.<br /><br />Remove from heat and add heavy cream slowly.  It will bubbly up, so stand back!  Stir over low heat for a couple of minutes until the caramel melts into the cream and it is smooth.  Add sea salt and vanilla.  Let it cool.<br /><br />Serve over apples, or ice cream... or apple crisp.  Or anything.<br />  <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5jVw7kUcc1zKCl82qh2IJ0lE-WiEn-oQP4xkp40QaTsFC4XOQWcOgH9H57VpLRYH5uLMQWQmJ8l_5T9ufMGmEH-5RArjI_HMsHyp46Z_RACLbNFA2HQ_dcCs11nItq_FaV-WB9WkNu_s9/s1600/IMG_9727.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5jVw7kUcc1zKCl82qh2IJ0lE-WiEn-oQP4xkp40QaTsFC4XOQWcOgH9H57VpLRYH5uLMQWQmJ8l_5T9ufMGmEH-5RArjI_HMsHyp46Z_RACLbNFA2HQ_dcCs11nItq_FaV-WB9WkNu_s9/s640/IMG_9727.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />The sugar is just beginning to turn a caramel color.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-0GlKpAjqSdTKdOEBpOIQ2fbLLTO7zyKl7cZqxTaMKgaPHI5e0jBAaBu_a9tcfz5vo7JBRQdsGbQeHsYRmkfNV6u9aLXUEsrjRiunnz5QTaT1BHqs4dtJBOzkXIciCYHnX_DN4tS9Zegp/s1600/IMG_9738.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-0GlKpAjqSdTKdOEBpOIQ2fbLLTO7zyKl7cZqxTaMKgaPHI5e0jBAaBu_a9tcfz5vo7JBRQdsGbQeHsYRmkfNV6u9aLXUEsrjRiunnz5QTaT1BHqs4dtJBOzkXIciCYHnX_DN4tS9Zegp/s640/IMG_9738.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />This is when you should remove it from the heat - it can go from chestnut to molasses colored in 30 seconds! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCzUCK8torEzoSA7vr_RUo_uzLathDaOW1aaRNUujrNbNg33OdWR7R8g9trtDK80km6ujxbd_Vkt8EIAKZu_QjJuxycwDendbn98wdpyqgRT3vd3EZ0UXHbfeC3POeijEhcB_zSlh6LJCg/s1600/IMG_9744.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCzUCK8torEzoSA7vr_RUo_uzLathDaOW1aaRNUujrNbNg33OdWR7R8g9trtDK80km6ujxbd_Vkt8EIAKZu_QjJuxycwDendbn98wdpyqgRT3vd3EZ0UXHbfeC3POeijEhcB_zSlh6LJCg/s640/IMG_9744.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />I've just added the cream and cooked for about 1 minute - it goes from separated taffy to a smooth sauce. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjuW7LqXdt7dCT0w7h-NL9x8_qppnbuE_RPCfI8XY1HszYejS7T0Vl84Q-zhDQ6fxymy_ZROHIua9gGGGQJZosHBaNS5bpvuq-ihcrwxFSO7PrxeZlTgoD5CiyBcXfxx5eAjLEZF7MIrHs/s1600/IMG_9788.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjuW7LqXdt7dCT0w7h-NL9x8_qppnbuE_RPCfI8XY1HszYejS7T0Vl84Q-zhDQ6fxymy_ZROHIua9gGGGQJZosHBaNS5bpvuq-ihcrwxFSO7PrxeZlTgoD5CiyBcXfxx5eAjLEZF7MIrHs/s640/IMG_9788.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHsmetf7QXG0Ern52DWQFboTBX5A3mwNoX07G98b1kvtYL8diFDJWG8ZeGpGLdvvpVTgeCltBDso8x1fVVtX8pbH7t5qmXdeM8cbki6ve7Wmt4y4eEAoKFzI5Z-2MbPuSXgg5JUfCxlMM3/s1600/caramel-sauce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHsmetf7QXG0Ern52DWQFboTBX5A3mwNoX07G98b1kvtYL8diFDJWG8ZeGpGLdvvpVTgeCltBDso8x1fVVtX8pbH7t5qmXdeM8cbki6ve7Wmt4y4eEAoKFzI5Z-2MbPuSXgg5JUfCxlMM3/s1600/caramel-sauce.jpg" /></a>I need some more ideas for Fall Favorites...  what are your favorites?!<br /><br />Here is the easy-to-pin strip for the Salted Caramel Sauce!<br /><br /><a class="pin-it-button" count-layout="horizontal" href="http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2012%2F10%2Fsalted-caramel-sauce-caramel-apples.html&media=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-QFPeFMrr9YA%2FUG20FRuFn3I%2FAAAAAAAAMyg%2F-3zCxkgUZXM%2Fs1600%2Fcaramel-sauce.jpg&description=Salted%20Caramel%20Sauce%20%7C%20Homemade%20Salted%20Caramel%20Sauce%20for%20Easy%20Fall%20Desserts%20or%20Caramel%20Apples%0A%0Ahttp%3A%2F%2Fjennysteffens.blogspot.com%2F2012%2F10%2Fsalted-caramel-sauce-caramel-apples.html"><img border="0" src="//assets.pinterest.com/images/PinExt.png" title="Pin It" /></a><br /><script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>

Salted Caramel Sauce | Caramel Apples with Simple Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce | Easy!

Making homemade caramel sauce might sound difficult.  It's not... it takes minutes.  If you can boil water (and sugar) then you can make...

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