Pecan Sticky Buns - Brioche Dough

Wow did I love making Brioche. The dough was great to work with and did everything the recipe said it would. This was also the first time I made dough with my stand mixer. That too was a terrific experience. The stand mixer really does make life easier.

I can't get over how great the sticky buns turned out. I was so impressed with all the layers that emerged and how they retained their bread texture.

The before... resting and rising before making it into the oven.

The after... straight out of the oven. Beautiful bread sitting in hot bubbling sugar.

I still have a second log in the freezer that is being saved for a Saturday morning treat. I can't wait!

Apple Upside-Down Chiffon Cake

I previously made a nectarine version of this cake and it was a huge crowd pleaser.

As much as I loved it, I had a feeling I had done something wrong (too much butter or undercooked) as it seemed too wet. Not pleasantly moist, just wet.

I am not talented enough to start modifying recipes, so I just ensured I didn't add too much butter to the bottom of the pan and that the cake was well cooked.

This cake batter is so different than any others I

make. The recipe calls for 1/2 cup lemon juice and it is like a science experiment as the dry ingredients are mixed in and the batter takes on a spongy texture. At first the cake satisfyingly rises in the oven, but then quickly deflates as the browning really starts.

I definitely cooked the cake longer and better this time, but when the cake was flipped there was oozing butter everywhere.

I really like how this cake tastes. I like that the cake has texture and isn't too dense. But I don't find the top layer moist, just wet.

Lavender Shortbread

I loved the idea of Lavender Shortbread cookies, but I had never tried them before. Then, recently at the farmer's market I found a local farmer with lavender for sale.

I found a recipe that sounded really great as it called for lemon zest and fresh mint.

The cookies were pretty easy to make, and I loved the way the house smelled. The lavender was really strong and the finished cookies easily doubled as room fresheners.

The finished cookies were tasty. But not

something I would ever want more than one of. I took the cookies to a dinner party and everyone was pleasantly surprised at how good lavender tasted.

I don't think I would make them again. I think they would be a nice touch as a one bite accompaniment to an afternoon tea. I think they are memorable and would add a special touch to just the right event.