Easy Strawberry Rhubarb jam cake
Introducing the Easy Strawberry Rhubarb Jam Summer Cake – a delightful confection that encapsulates the essence of summer in every blissful bite.
Introducing the Easy Strawberry Rhubarb Jam Summer Cake – a delightful confection that encapsulates the essence of summer in every blissful bite. This delectable creation boasts layers of vibrant flavors, courtesy of luscious strawberry rhubarb jam, harmonizing with the sweet melody of a tender cake. Adorned with the natural elegance of fresh lilac flowers, this cake not only captures the vivid hues of summer but also serves as a testament to simplicity and ease in the realm of baking. Perfect for both seasoned bakers and kitchen novices, this inviting treat promises a burst of seasonal joy without the fuss. Get ready to savor the taste of summer with a cake that effortlessly (can be made in advance) combines the beauty of fresh ingredients and the charm of uncomplicated preparation.
For this cake, you can make homemade strawberry rhubarb compote or substitute this with store bought jam. This cake is served with homemade lilac honey if you want to be extra impressive.
Cake Base & Filling Ingredients
Cake base
200 g oat or oreo cookies (1packet)
70g melted butter
Cake filling
200g heavy cream for whipping
1-2 cups of strawberry flavored quark (1 cup is enough for 16cm Ø cake tin)
2-3 tablespoons of sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
About 5-6 tablespoons of homemade strawberry rhubarb compote/jam (can be store bought)
4 gelatin leaves
Garnish: powder sugar, fresh lilac flowers washed
Directions (cake base 16cm Ø )
I prefer to use a 16cm Ø for the cake tin as this gives a smaller and taller cake. If you are using a larger base, you may need to add 2 cups of strawberry quark to elevate height. Otherwise, 1 cup is enough for the smaller base.
Place the cookies into a food processor and blend into a sand like consistency. Add in the melted butter. Spread the cookies on the base of your cake tin and refrigerate for 30min.
Place the gelatin leaves in cold water for 10 minutes to soften. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whip the cream and sugar. Then fold in the quark and a few tablespoons of compoté.
In a small saucepan, heat the tablespoon of lemon juie. Squeeze the excess water from the gelatin leaves and place into the lemon juice. Stir until they dissolve. Pour the liquid into the whipped cream mixture.
Take the cake tin away from the refrigerator. Spoon a layer of compote on top of the cookie base so it is covered. Then add the whipped cream mixture on top. Cover the cake tin with clingfilm and refrigerate overnight or at least 5 hours.
The following day, garnish the cake with lilac flowers and a dusting of powdered sugar. I don’t actually eat the fresh flowers of the cake even though they are eatable. However, I did serve it with homemade lilac honey if you want a little addition of summer sweetness.
NOTE THIS
The cake is served with homemade lilac honey, but this is something that can be easily left out. If you decided to do this, it needs to be done in at advance.
The homemade compoté can be made in advance by a week, so this saves time. This recipe takes minutes to make and highly recommend if rhubarb is in season. However, a store-bought jam will also work.
The great thing about this cake is that you can make it the night before serving, as it sets overnight in the fridge.
Nordic style Savoury Skagen Cake
The Nordic voileipä kakku, or sandwich cake, stands as a culinary emblem of joy and celebration in the Nordic countries, a savory masterpiece that graces festive occasions with its distinct charm. For Scandinavians, it carries the weight of a cherished tradition, a vessel of summer nostalgia that adds a layer of sentimental richness to each bite.
The Nordic voileipä kakku, or sandwich cake, stands as a culinary emblem of joy and celebration in the Nordic countries, a savory masterpiece that graces festive occasions with its distinct charm. For Scandinavians, it carries the weight of a cherished tradition, a vessel of summer nostalgia that adds a layer of sentimental richness to each bite.
Comprising layers of delicate white bread, this gastronomic delight is a canvas for a symphony of flavors, with a skagen mass (nordic shrimp mixture with mayonnaise, dill and shrimp) taking center stage, its velvety richness harmonizing with layers of sumptuous cream cheese. The marriage of textures and tastes unfolds in each slice, offering a blend of creamy indulgence and the briny allure of the ocean.
Ingredients
(cake tin 16cm Ø –I specifically wanted to use a smaller but taller one as I feel this looks visually more appealing)
Base
500g wheat toast
½ dl lemon juice
1/2dl water
Pinch of salt
Filling
3 gelatin leaves (soaked in cold water)
300g good quality shrimps
1 red onion
1 bunch of dill
2 jars (150g each) of crème fraiche
1 packet (200g) cream cheese (can be herb flavored or natural)
Black pepper
Zest of 1 lemon
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Garnish
Herbs of choice (thyme, dill)
Lamb’s lettuce or any type of delicate micro leaves
About 100g cream cheese
2-3 teaspoons lemon juice
Directions
Begin by placing a parchment paper on the bottom base of your cake tin and it does not matter if the paper is a bit too large from the sides. Cut the edges into a rough frame of your base.
Trim the edges away from your toast. On a plate, add the water/lemon juice and a pinch of salt. Dip the bread slice into the liquid and press the bread into the base of your cake tin. Repeat this process so the base is covered with toast. The bread is easily shaped by pressing it down so it covers all the surface area.
Place the gelatin leaves into a cold bowl of water while you cook the filling.
Meanwhile, create the filling: In a large bowl, add the shrimps (note: self-peeled shrimps are always more flavorful than ready peeled ones), finely chopped red onion and the chopped dill.
In another bowl, add in the créme fraiche and cream cheese (I used a herb flavored version) and whisk until frothy. Pour this bowl with the shrimps and mix well. Add in the lemon zest, and a generous amount of black pepper.
In a small pot, heat up the tablespoon of lemon juice. Squeeze the excess water away from the gelatin leaves and place into the heated lemon juice. Immediately stir with a wooden spoon, turn of the heat and allow the gelatin leaves to dissolve. Pour this into the filling and mix well.
Now you are ready to layer the cake: Add a few large scoops of shrimp filling on top of the bread. Then gently dip the toast into the water/lemon liquid and create another layer. Add a round of filling. Add another layer of bread. Repeat the process until the filling and bread runs out. Once ready, place some kitchen foil on the cake tin and leave into the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or even overnight.
Ready to serve: After four hours, gently remove the cake tin. Add a bit of “frosting” to the side by whisking crème cheese with a bit of lemon juice to thin it out. Depends on what type of look you are going for with the cake, but I like that not all sides are covered, just like with a semi-naked layer cake. With the help of a knife, spread some of the cream cheese on top and to the sides, to smoothen the surface. Garnish with microleaves (such as lamb’s lettuce) and fresh herbs like dill and thyme. I love to use the flowers from the thyme as well.
Overall, the beauty of this sandwich cake is that it can be modified to your liking with many different ingredients and it is easy to make, even if you are a beginner at cooking. Not only does it look impressive, but it can also be a delightful first to many, while for Scandinavians it holds a long history of summer memories. The comforting sandwich cake is a visual statement that lures you in with its delightful fresh flavors.
Easy Winter Tea
Indulging in a heartwarming cup of homemade berry tea is like wrapping oneself in a cozy embrace, especially delightful when nestled under a blanket and immersed in the enchantment of Christmas movies. The infusion of flavors in this tea is a delightful symphony; the rich essence of black currant intertwines with a hint of citrus and a touch of honey, resulting in a delightful winter blend that warms both body and soul.
Indulging in a heartwarming cup of homemade berry tea is like wrapping oneself in a cozy embrace, especially delightful when nestled under a blanket and immersed in the enchantment of Christmas movies. The infusion of flavors in this tea is a delightful symphony; the rich essence of black currant intertwines with a hint of citrus and a touch of honey, resulting in a delightful winter blend that warms both body and soul.
Crafting this comforting elixir is a simple yet rewarding process – just combine the ingredients in a pot, pour in boiling water, and let the magic unfold as it infuses with comforting aromas. Homemade tea, a canvas for experimentation, invites you to personalize the experience with your favorite flavors. Whether it's the tangy allure of raspberries, the sweetness of blueberries, or the vibrant burst of red currants, you have the freedom to tailor it to your taste. Elevate the infusion with the aromatic notes of mint or thyme, and perhaps add a touch of seasonal spices for that extra festive flair. This blend is not just a beverage; it's a celebration of simplicity and joy, perfectly capturing the spirit of the festive season.
Ingredients
(no need to measure anything, add according to your desires)
Orange slices
Lemon Slices
Black currant berries
honey
rosemary twigs
black tea
Hot Water
For a Christmas twist add a cinnamon stick, cloves and ginger or any other festive spices to your liking.
Simple Fig Toast & Tablescape Inspo
The natural sweetness of figs, delicately harmonizing with the perfectly toasted slice, yields a culinary masterpiece that effortlessly marries simplicity with refined taste. This intersection of sensory delights transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary ones, where the magic of the season converges with the joy of palate-pleasing elegance.
Nestled within the embrace of a cozy cocoon while the world outside glistens under a pristine blanket of snow, our home exudes an enchanting ambiance infused with the lingering aroma of fresh pine, courtesy of our resplendent Christmas tree. With the holiday drawing near, a profound inspiration blossoms, inspired by the allure of deep, opulent colors that weave a captivating spell across our surroundings. As we transition into the realm of culinary indulgence, savoring a simple fig toast emerges as an artful and sophisticated means of elevating our morning routine. The natural sweetness of figs, delicately harmonizing with the perfectly toasted slice, yields a culinary masterpiece that effortlessly marries simplicity with refined taste. This intersection of sensory delights transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary ones, where the magic of the season converges with the joy of palate-pleasing elegance.
The tree, standing proudly in the heart of the living room, evokes a sense of enchantment, infusing the atmosphere with a delightful festive spirit. My musings on the impending Christmas Day table setting lean towards an artistic creation—an envisaged tablescape crafted from the verdant embrace of pine and eucalyptus, punctuated by the delicate presence of hyacinths and the soft glow of scattered candles. The vision, still taking shape, hints at the allure of thick ribbons and cherished antique plates, promising a dining experience that transcends the ordinary and embraces the extraordinary.
In our festive abode, figs emerge as indispensable treasures, transforming our holiday culinary canvas into a celebration of opulence. These succulent jewels, versatile in their ability to elevate both savory and sweet dishes, become the epitome of Christmas indulgence. A mere whisper of luxury unfurls in the simplicity of a cream cheese toast adorned with velvety orange marmalade and crowned with slices of figs—a morning or evening delicacy that materializes in mere seconds. As a final touch, a sprig of fresh thyme, plucked from our herb haven, imparts an herbaceous essence to this gastronomic masterpiece. The alchemy lies in the generous union of cream cheese and jam, harmoniously dancing with the figs to orchestrate a symphony of flavors. With the fig-adorned feast savored, the scene transitions seamlessly into a cozy evening, adorned with the fragrant task of arranging hyacinths in dainty pots and the tender ritual of bathing our little one. The ambiance is further enhanced by the commencement of my husband's Christmas holidays, promising an intimate and tranquil evening within the warmth of our festive haven.
Simple Fig Toast
Cream Cheese
Orange marmalade
Fresh Figs
Thyme twig
Christmas Eve Table Decor
Embarking on the enchanting journey of Christmas decoration, I sought to capture the timeless allure of the season by adorning my surroundings with the natural splendor of evergreen elements. Infused with a subtle Nordic charm and a touch of French country elegance, my Christmas table became a canvas of festive joy.
Embarking on the enchanting journey of Christmas decoration, I sought to capture the timeless allure of the season by adorning my surroundings with the natural splendor of evergreen elements. Infused with a subtle Nordic charm and a touch of French country elegance, my Christmas table became a canvas of festive joy.
Mindful Christmas Decorating
In the art of mindful Christmas decorating, the pursuit is not merely aesthetic but a deliberate journey into the soul of the season. Eschewing the allure of commercial extravagance, the emphasis is on crafting an atmosphere that transcends trends, embracing a timeless and elegant allure. Candles, gracefully flickering like echoes of bygone traditions, take center stage, casting a soft, intimate glow that transcends materialistic shimmer. Foraged greens, gathered with a gentle touch from nature's bounty, intertwine with the spirit of the outdoors, infusing the space with an organic harmony. The flower arrangements, not ostentatious but thoughtfully curated, mirror the understated beauty of the season. Each element, from the flickering flames to the verdant accents, converges in a symphony of simplicity and grace—an homage to the essence of Christmas that resonates far beyond fleeting trends, embodying a mindful celebration of warmth, connection, and the enduring magic of the holiday spirit.
The delightful festivities unfolded as Christmas Eve drew near, ushering in moments of warmth and togetherness. In the company of my husband and Lucas, the morning was gracefully marked by shared joys—savoring rice porridge, harmonizing with Christmas melodies, and relishing the joy of unwrapping gifts. Notably, the eve doubled as a celebration of Siena's third birthday, a joyous occasion that we commemorated beneath the twinkling lights of our adorned tree, basking in the glow of shared laughter and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee.
Our holiday celebrations extended beyond the confines of our home, with Christmas Eve dinner at my husband's family and a subsequent gathering of loved ones for Christmas dinner. Yet, it was the day spent hosting my own family that held a special place in my heart, as I reveled in the joy of curating cherished memories as the gracious host.
Turning my attention to the Christmas table, I envisioned a tapestry of natural beauty. Pine branches formed a verdant garland at the center, interwoven with delicate eucalyptus twigs. Danish slim candles from Ester and Erik, in enchanting beige and olive green hues, cast a soft, intimate glow. A fusion of Tina K. plates as a base, adorned with eclectic French plates collected over the years, added a touch of personalized charm. Olive green linen napkins from H&M replaced the conventional white, imparting a gentle elegance, while hyacinth flowers delicately punctuated the tableau.
To commence our festive feasting, we crafted delectable Cointreau-based cocktails that proved to be an instant hit. The culinary symphony unfolded with white fish tartare canapés, followed by succulent scallops and a tantalizing shrimp Skagen dish. Our culinary journey continued with the traditional fish tableau, featuring an array of roe, cured fish, salads, and foie gras. For the pièce de résistance, we eschewed the conventional ham in favor of a sumptuous goose confit paired with parmesan potatoes, elevating the dining experience to a crescendo of flavor.
The atmosphere, characterized by its intimate charm, was further heightened by the exquisite weather—a stunning backdrop to our festive gathering. In sharing these glimpses of my Christmas celebration, I extend an invitation to revel in the magic of the season, where each element is meticulously curated to evoke joy, warmth, and lasting memories.
Homemade Dandelion Marmelade
Embark on a culinary adventure this spring by foraging dandelions, nature's hidden treasures. With vibrant yellow blooms and versatile flavors, these resilient wildflowers offer a delightful array of culinary possibilities, from tender leaves in salads to the creation of fragrant dandelion marmalade, bringing the essence of the season to your plate.
Embark on a culinary adventure this spring by foraging dandelions, nature's hidden treasures. With vibrant yellow blooms and versatile flavors, these resilient wildflowers offer a delightful array of culinary possibilities, from tender leaves in salads to the creation of fragrant dandelion marmalade, bringing the essence of the season to your plate.
This spring, I embarked on a culinary adventure, venturing beyond the familiar realms of berries and mushrooms to explore the bounty of edible treasures that nature graciously offers. My foraging journey began with the iconic dandelion, a perennial herb with a myriad of culinary and medicinal applications. Recognizable by its sunny blossoms, this versatile plant unfolds its edible treasures during the springtime. Optimal foraging occurs when the leaves are young, showcasing fewer lobes and a milder, less bitter flavor than their summertime counterparts. Bursting with vitamins A, C, and K, along with rich stores of folate and iron, these leaves are nutritional powerhouses. The delicate petals of the dandelion, on the other hand, beckoned me to experiment with a delightful creation—dandelion marmalade. Surprisingly easy to make with just flower petals, sugar, water, and a touch of lemon, the marmalade captures the petal's sweet subtlety, while the leaves impart a more tangy, spinach-like essence. Further culinary exploration led me to discover the deliciousness of fried dandelion buds, reminiscent of zucchini flowers, and the flowers' versatility in infusing honey, vinegars, syrups, and even ice cream. With their nuanced flavors, dandelion flowers have become a remarkable addition to both sweet and savory culinary creations, unveiling the untapped potential of springtime foraging.
Good to know
Do not forage anything near roads, golf courses or farmlands so the produce has not collected any chemicals. Pick them from unpolluted areas so they are as clean as possible. To be environmentally friendly, do not pick every flower and leave some to grow.
Everything needs to be thoroughly washed to eliminate bugs
Make sure you identify all items that you pick, as many similar looking plants can be poisonous.
How to make the marmalade (to make a small batch)
1 cup dandelion flowers
1 cup water
1/2 juice of lemon ( & some lemon zest)
about 1 cup sugar
Crafting a small batch of dandelion marmalade is a delightful venture that captures the essence of spring. Begin by washing and drying one cup of dandelion flowers. Gently pluck the petals into a bowl, discarding any stems. In a saucepan, combine one cup of water, the dandelion petals, and the juice of half a lemon, adding in a few strips of lemon zest for an extra citrus kick. Bring this vibrant mixture to a boil, then let it simmer for approximately 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld into a fragrant infusion.
Once the dandelion petals have generously imparted their essence, strain the liquid through a sieve into a cup, separating and discarding the spent petals and lemon zest. This yields a golden dandelion water, the base for your marmalade. Measure this liquid (aiming for about 1 cup) and match it with an equivalent amount of sugar in a separate bowl.
Return the dandelion-infused water to the saucepan, adding in the measured sugar. Bring the concoction to a gentle boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Lower the temperature and let the mixture simmer, gradually thickening as it cools. Once the desired consistency is achieved, pour the luscious marmalade into a Mason jar. Allow it to cool, and voilà—your homemade dandelion marmalade is ready to grace your table with the vibrant flavors of spring.
Mini Gingerbread Cakes
Elevating the essence of festive indulgence, these individual Christmas cakes are a symphony of flavors and textures, encapsulating the warmth of the holiday season.
Elevating the essence of festive indulgence, these individual Christmas cakes are a symphony of flavors and textures, encapsulating the warmth of the holiday season. The amalgamation cream cheese, sugar, and the aromatic seeds from a vanilla pod, harmoniously combined with the unique touch gingerbread-flavored quark, creates a blissful culinary experience. For those without gingerbread quark, a luxurious alternative of whipped cream infused with cinnamon, gingerbread spice, and cardamom offers an equally delightful substitution. Chilled to perfection in individual stainless steel cylinder molds, these enchanting cakes, adorned with black currants, a dusting of frosting sugar, and a sprig of thyme, are not merely desserts; they are a visual and culinary celebration of the season's magic. Perfectly portioned and visually captivating, these Christmas cakes transform any gathering into a memorable ode to festive indulgence.
Ingredients
Christmas cakes (makes 4 or 5 servings)
1 tub (200g) cream cheese
1 d sugar
1 tub (200g) gingerbread flavoured quark (if you don’t have this available in your country, whipped cream works too.)
3 gelatin leaves
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 vanilla pod
black currants, frosting sugar and thyme twig for garnishing
oil for brushing the sides of cake moulds
Directions
Individual stainless steal cylinder molds (like the ones you use for tartar) for creating the cake shape. In a large bowl add in the cream cheese, sugar, seeds from the vanilla pod and gingerbread flavoured quark. Gently mix. If you do not have quark, you can separately whip some cream until fluffy and mix that in. Flavour it with spices that you like, such as a teaspoon of cinnamon, gingerbread spice and cardamom.
Meanwhile add the gelatine leaves into a bowl of cold water for 5 minutes until they become soft. Heat a tablespoon of lemon juice on the stone and place the gelatine leaves into it. Before placing them into the lemon juice, squeeze the excess water away from them. Stir for a couple of seconds so the gelatine melts and place this into the bowl with all the other ingredients. Mix well.
Place a piece of aluminium foil on the bottom of each cake mould. Brush the sides with oil. Scoop some cake mixture into each mould. Place clingfilm on top of each one when finished. Refrigerate overnight. When ready to serve, remove the clingfilm from top and place each cake on a little plate. The cake falls through the mould easily. Garnish with black currants, a little bit of frosting sugar and a thyme twig for visual affect.
Easy Lemon Gingerbread cookies
Baking Christmas gingerbread cookies is a nostalgic journey back to the simple joys of childhood, where the warmth of the kitchen and the aroma of festive spices created lasting memories. Making them from scratch, with each measured ingredient and the familiar scent of ginger and cinnamon, is a delightful endeavor that reconnects us to cherished traditions. The process is surprisingly easy, turning the kitchen into a haven of holiday magic. From mixing the dough to cutting out whimsical shapes, the simplicity of crafting these cookies from scratch not only yields delicious treats but also revives the enchantment of Christmases past, making every bite a sweet reminder of the timeless joy that comes with homemade holiday traditions.
Baking Christmas gingerbread cookies is a nostalgic journey back to the simple joys of childhood, where the warmth of the kitchen and the aroma of festive spices created lasting memories. Making them from scratch, with each measured ingredient and the familiar scent of ginger and cinnamon, is a delightful endeavor that reconnects us to cherished traditions. The process is surprisingly easy, turning the kitchen into a haven of holiday magic. From mixing the dough to cutting out whimsical shapes, the simplicity of crafting these cookies from scratch not only yields delicious treats but also revives the enchantment of Christmases past, making every bite a sweet reminder of the timeless joy that comes with homemade holiday traditions.
As our Christmas tree continues to grace our home, the lingering festive spirit beckoned me to embark on a delightful venture: baking gingerbread cookies. Surprisingly, this marked my inaugural attempt at crafting my own gingerbread cookie dough, a venture long overdue. To infuse an extra layer of zest, I decided to incorporate lemon zest into the mix—an inspired addition that has now earned its perennial spot in my recipe. Crafting the dough proved to be a breeze, allowing for the luxury of whipping up a modest batch, perfectly tailored to a single baking tray, as per my preference. The crowning touch came with the decadent dip into melted Daim chocolate, imparting an exquisite flavor that elevated the cookies to a whole new realm. The aromatic symphony of sweet festive spices wafting through the kitchen as I baked these treats on the eve of Christmas Eve created an atmosphere of pure holiday magic. Our family embraced the seasonal spirit with a serene forest walk, accompanied by a thermos of hot glögi and our freshly baked cookies—a prelude to the joyous day that followed. Penning down this recipe serves not just as a sharing of culinary joy but also as a personal pledge to weave this newfound tradition into the fabric of our festive celebrations. I eagerly anticipate the day when our little one can join in this heartwarming tradition, forging lasting memories with each batch of gingerbread goodness.
Ingredients ( 1 baking tray)
1/2 dl syrup
1/2 dl sugar
75g butter
zest of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground Cardamom
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon gingerbread spice
1 egg
2-3 dl flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
Directions
Boil the butter, sugar, lemon zest, syrup and spices in a saucepan. Cool the mixture. Add in the egg. Add the flour and baking soda. Mix into an even batter. However, do not over mix the batter as this keeps the cookies crisp. If the batter seems too dry, you can add a little bit more melted butter. Place the batter into the fridge for overnight.
The following day, roll the batter out and use your cookie cutters to create shapes. Make sure to use plenty of flour so it does not stick to your surface. Place the raw cookies onto a parchment paper lined baking tray and bake in 200 Celsius degrees for about 5-8 minutes. Leave to cool on a rack and dip a corner of the cookie into some melted chocolate. I used daim-flavoured chocolate that I melted in a bowl over boiling water. Lastly I dusted the cookies with a coating of icing sugar.
Easy Winter Apple Cocktail
As the winter winds start to whisper through the Nordic landscapes, there's nothing quite like cozying up with a delightful Apple Winter Cocktail. Inspired by the rich, spiced flavors of homemade apple juice glögi, this cocktail is a symphony of warmth, depth, and refreshment—a perfect libation for the festive season.
Elevate Your Winter Soirée with the Ultimate Apple Winter Cocktail
As the winter winds start to whisper through the Nordic landscapes, there's nothing quite like cozying up with a delightful Apple Winter Cocktail. Inspired by the rich, spiced flavors of homemade apple juice glögi, this cocktail is a symphony of warmth, depth, and refreshment—a perfect libation for the festive season.
Ingredients:
About 2 cups of good quality apple juice
About 1 cup of apple-flavored soda (or experiment with champagne/prosecco)
A splash of your favorite gin or alcohol
Christmas spices: Cinnamon stick, cloves, dried ginger, clementine slices
1-2 egg whites (optional, but adds a frothy touch)
Handful of ice
Garnish:
Dried clementine slices
To make dried clementine slices, thinly slice clementines and arrange the slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in a low oven (around 200°F or 93°C) for 2-3 hours, flipping the slices halfway through, until they are dehydrated and slightly crispy. Allow them to cool before using.
Thyme
Ice
Preparation:
Infuse the Spiced Apple Juice:
In a pot over medium-high heat, pour 2 cups of apple juice.
Add a harmonious blend of Christmas spices—cinnamon stick, cloves, and dried ginger.
Allow it to gently simmer for around 15 minutes, letting the spices weave their magic.
Remove from heat and let it cool for an hour to let the flavors meld. Strain the spices using a sieve.
Store this spiced apple elixir in a Maison jar and refrigerate until you're ready to craft your cocktails.
Dress the Glass with a Sugary Embrace:
Elevate the presentation by creating a sugar-coated rim. Dab honey around the glass rim and gently dip it into brown sugar on a plate.
Crafting the Apple Winter Cocktail:
In a cocktail shaker or Maison jar filled with ice, combine a splash of spiced apple juice, a generous splash of your preferred alcohol, and 1-2 egg whites for a frothy texture.
Shake this mixture vigorously, infusing it with winter's spirit, and pour it into your prepared glass or glasses.
Top it off with the crisp effervescence of apple-flavored soda. Adjust the ratio of apple juice to soda based on your preference for sweetness and fizziness.
Garnish and Delight:
Finish your masterpiece with a dried clementine slice and a sprig of thyme. The visual appeal is as important as the taste!
Consider experimenting with champagne or prosecco instead of soda for an extra touch of sophistication.
Notes and Tips:
Tailor the cocktail to your liking by adjusting the amounts of apple juice and soda.
For a frothier experience, include 1 egg white per serving. However, the cocktail is equally splendid without it.
Feel free to play with the choice of alcohol, letting your favorite spirits dance with the winter spices.
Embrace the festive spirit and sip on the enchanting Apple Winter Cocktail—a delightful symphony of winter flavors that will undoubtedly elevate your holiday gatherings. Cheers to a year of warmth, celebration, and delightful sips!