This is the part where I take a moment to ask for your help.
This is the part where I tell you how much I need you.
Seriously people…. I need some inspiration. Give it up. Please and thank you.
I think I’ve found myself in a bit of a kitchen rut. What should I make? What do you want to see?
Hot? Cold? Sweet or savory? At what point will you stop putting up with my baking antics? How much cranberry juice is too much cranberry juice to drink in one day? What do I do about this giant blemish on my chin?
Ok… I suppose you should only answer the first few questions above. Send me some inspiration. Send me a dozen eggs. Send me a punch in the skull. I need your creative kitchen juice or your closed fist punches. Let’s be a team about this. I need you… but please don’t actually punch me. I was kidding about that part.
Update: You all are the most lovely people a blogger could ask for. Thank you! Thank you! Thank you for all the inspiration. I’ve already got a list working from all your suggestions. Keep em coming! I think you’re dreamy!
Aaaand another update: You lovelies have blown me away. Thanks for all the inspiration. Amazing! Let’s hug. I’ll be in my kitchen this weekend and be back next week with some pretty fabulous treats for you. Thank you. One the real…. thanks.
Stephanie
I have made the mistake of promising the guy I go out with a true, authentic, best-ever caramel cake…I’ve done two test runs on the frosting but really have no idea what I’m doing here. HELP!
Mrs Mouse
Uh, oh. We’re both in trouble. You asking ME for help?! I was looking to YOU for help! I’m buried in fresh fruit and summer vegies, AND it’s 100 degrees AND I signed a ‘no a/c’ pledge this year, so baking is out unless it’s in my little toaster oven or crockpot on the back porch!
I can’t do a thing about a blemish except stomp on your toe to take your mind as far away from it as possible (NOT that I’d DO that, I’m just sayin’ it’s all I can think of…why yes, I grew up in a disfuntional household…why do you ask?)
ANYway, Pretty please, seasonal foods in season with no heat? strawberries, zuchinni, summer squash, pea pods, chinese cabbage, blackberries, blueberries, tomatoes…..HELP!
Ally
Last night I had a bit of this myself so as I’m currently reading Julie & Julia I decided to try a really simple recipe from Julia Child – Artichokes in Lemon Butter [now I know there’s a French name for it but frankly I don’t want to insult anyone from France by butchering their language as I do when I try to speak it so I’ll just go with the translation!! :)]. Anyway – it was extremely, dare I say it, sexy to eat! The reason I suggest this even though it has nothing to do with baking is because sometimes I fnid if I move away from my normal method of cooking to something else it brings my mind back with a bang! Anyway – best of luck and I’ll definitely await your inspired recipes! :)
Linda Y
Dear JOY,
I am a newbie to baking blogs & am OBESSED! “Joy the Baker” is the first blog I read each A.M. You are so very talented & creative…I am thinking that you should “get out” of your surroundings…perhaps of visit to the LA County Museum of Art to view the current exhibit “Your Bright Future” or a walk around The Getty or The Gamble House might be inspirational…how about Venice Beach…& please don’t forget your camera! Happy exploring!
Nad
hmmm what about some dessert using candy bars and whipped cream, or maybe cheesecake, something cold for the summer!
itsworthalook
Hey Joy!
It’s that time of the year when Zucchini aim for world domination (and judging by my garden, may actually achieve it)…
How about something other than cinn/nutmeg or lemon?
Have fun!
Kati
Joy-Your blog is awesome but what makes it even better is the humor and down to earth essence that you project from within it-not having met you but through the virtual world feeling like you are very down to earth and “real”. Now, on to the food, lol. We in Jersey love our corn, so many great recipes for corn and summertime-it goes hand in hand. How about some corn salsas, some grilled carmelized corn in husks, some corn cupcakes, anything corn related–you can’t beat fresh corn on the cob! PS-Sometimes shopping helps me out of ruts, haha Good for the soul but just not great on the pocketbook! Enjoy your day!
green ink
Joy, it’s such a relief to hear that even incredibly talented people such as yourself need some inspiration now and then :D
Have you made your own croissants yet? That’s something I’d love to try at home and I’d be curious to see your take on it, if you haven’t already done it.
Have you made the traditional English Summer Berry Pudding before? That’s one of my favourites, and one I’m sure you’d love. I can give you a recipe if you like.
I’m also always keen to see vegan/dairy free baked goods.
Love your work, and hope you come up with some great ideas :D x
Coleen
We are experiencing record high temperatures here in Alaska. I’d love to see some light food for hot weather and no oven.
Rene
I just made Bourbon Peach Hand Pies from Smitten Kitten: https://smittenkitchen.com/2008/08/bourbon-peach-hand-pies/ .Next I’m going to try it with other berries and use puff pastry. Perhaps something like that will tickle your fancy!
Summer
I always want more cupcakes! Your lemon scented buttermilk with brown sugar frosting are a major feature in my cupcake adventures! Bring on some more fab cupcakes.
Amanda
Something with peaches and butter brickle. Noms. :)
Rachel
you make the best ice cream. how about another ice cream cake?
Mélanie
During the summer, I love to make desserts with lots of fruits, with little batter because all I want to taste are the fruits… Open face pies are great for that…
What about an almond and raspberrie pie?
Soupdiva
I totally relate to being in a rut. I haven’t created a soup recipe in a very long time. I’m in a pretty major life change with my only child headed off to college 2 states away and I have no clue what a career mom does when she “retires”. I always enjoy your recipes and have started my own vanilla extract factory cupboard thanks to you!
It’s summer and the weather here hangs out at about 100, so baking is not a whole lot of fun when it’s hot out. How about square shortbread cookies with a yummy fresh fruit topping and some freshly homemade whipped cream?