When it comes to baking, there are things I consider kitchen essentials and things I consider kitchen luxuries. Somehow, because I’m me, those lists have merged as the luxury tools become more essential than not. What can I say, I settle into comforts really well. I’m sure you do, too – so read this list…
Hello, Joy Nation! Tennessee has admittedly been a drag lately. But…it’s been two years since I moved back home to Nashville and I’m still delighting in all the charms I missed while I was gone. Recently, a friend began a story by saying, “Hand to heaven…” Another friend wrote in an email, “I didn’t fall…
Get ready to indulge in the ultimate sweet, salty, nutty treat with these irresistible white chocolate macadamia nut cookies! Made with butter and brown sugar, and loaded with chunks of creamy white chocolate and roasted macadamia nuts, these cookies are perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth cravings (with a hint of salt for balance). Whether…
As promised (threatened?) I’ve watched approximately 39 hours of Love Island UK. If that number seems high to you, clearly you are unaware that I have at least 20 more hours to go. But Kim, you may be wondering, aren’t you feeling the ick? Is the math really mathing? And you know what? It isn’t….
When life hands you lemons, make lemon bars! This lemon bar recipe is the perfect way to add a bite of sunshine to the day. These bars boast a buttery and lightly spiced shortbread crust, and a creamy smooth lemon filling that’s the perfect combination of tangy and sweet. Indulge in a square (or two)…
Thank goodness, Abby brought extra parachutes for us last week because I’m raising my hand to claim one. She’s not the only member of Team Joy the Baker who jumps first and finds solutions on the way down. That’s exactly what’s happening as I set off on a little solo camping trip this week to…
I’m a simple home baker. I don’t need every clever kitchen gadget to make a batch of cookies. Honestly, I’ve reached for a butterknife over an offset spatula to frost cakes more times than I can count. Baking isn’t all about gear but, there is one kitchen splurge that I keep stocked in my pantry,…
Since I was raised on movies, the Oscars ceremony is my Super Bowl. I look forward to it all year long and always try to watch all the contenders. Of course I’m in it for the films, the celebs, and the clothes. But I also love a good theme party—who doesn’t? My ideal Oscars party…
Happy Sunday, friends! Since you are my very best friends on the internet I figured I’d share a few thoughts. I think I want to write a book. Okay, I KNOW I want to write a book. It’s been in my very mind and heart for a long time, and it feels like it’s time….
Don’t think of blondies as brownies without the chocolate – these chewy little squares are sweet like butterscotch and studded with toasted walnuts and melty dark chocolate pockets. I add a generous sprinkle of flaky sea salt to balance the sweetness of the brown sugar, making these bars the best classic blondie recipe to come…
Hello, friends! Have you ever tried writing a reverse ‘to-do’ list? Basically, instead of making a list of everything you need to do, start a list of everything you’ve already done. Keep it in a handy spot, like the kitchen counter, and add to it whenever you can. I did this for the kids last…
Happy Fat Tuesday everyone! We’ve arrived at the day before Lent, where everyone loses their minds and indulges before 40 days of meatless Mondays and fish fry Fridays. Chicago, while having faith from all corners of the world, is an incredibly Catholic-centric city – kind of like New Orleans. Growing up non-denominational Christian I never…
I don’t know about you, but January-February is not my time to shine. Every year around this time, my mood dips and my therapist reminds me that I do not perk up until March. It’s like Groundhog Day, but for seasonal depression. I’m taking my little walks, I’m imagining a version of me that reaches…
A King Cake recipe for every year I’ve lived in New Orleans – cinnamon-scented, pecan-filled, with yeast or without, super simple to make or deliciously complex. Whether you want your King Cake sweet or savory, your perfect recipe is here. I love dancing in the street every Mardi Gras season but Mardi Gras is also…
This Bostock toast is a delightful marriage of toast and almond croissant. Toast turns pastry. We’re topping these toasts with orange marmalade and sliced almonds inspired by my favorite almond-filled french King Cake. It’s Mardi Gras, friends! The big BIG weekend and Fat Tuesday are just days away and who would I be if I…
