I’m such a sucker for snacks, you have no idea. I love them so much that I tend to go all out on the snacks themselves, and end up getting so full that I don’t have any room for dinner after that. It happens to me all the time, and because of this, I’m always on the lookout for new and exciting snack recipes. These Quick Bacon Cheddar and Jalapeño Soft Pretzels came about because I had to shoot these quick breadsticks for Genius Kitchen and after I made them, it hit me that that particular recipe would make unbelievable homemade soft pretzels. They’re so much easier to make than the traditional pretzels, with only 20 minutes rising time and no-boiling required. And although, the texture of course, isn’t the same as the classic soft pretzel, this recipe more than gets the job done. The best part is that they’re completely customizable and can get flavored many different ways.
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Sometimes I think it’s important to keep a simple “quick bread” recipe up your sleeve. You know, for moments when you’re in dire need of something sweet, first thing in the morning. Or just a little something right after dinner. Perhaps, you’re in need of a sweet treat late at time right before bed. Whatever the case might be, whenever the craving hits, you’ll want a quick and easy recipe that requires hardly any work. That’s where this Zucchini Chocolate Chip Streusel Loaf comes into the picture. The zucchini, oil and yogurt makes the moistest cake you’ll ever have. The chocolate chip streusel in the center and the topping takes it over the top, without being too much. It’s like a spring time coffee cake that I think you should always have on hand. You never know when the cravings will hit. You’ll want to be ready with this loaf cake when it does. 
These Pineapple Upside-Down Scones are for everyone out there that loves a sweet treat first thing in the morning. Although, this time you actually have a valid excuse to indulge yourself. They’re decadent enough to be made for dessert, of course, but are still quite simple to be served for a brunch or light breakfast. I took the 
I think I’ve mentioned before that I’m currently learning Italian at the local community college right by my house. The class is a couple days a week. I get to ride my bike there and it’s the perfect break from all the work I do in the kitchen and on the computer on a daily basis. Not only am I enjoying learning the language, but I’ve become fascinated with the Italian culture itself and it’s people. There’s just something so warm and inviting about both. Having been to Italy twice now, I’ve had the chance to eat some really amazing food there. One of my favorite things is not fancy at all and can be found in tiny corner sandwich shops. Piadina (or Piadine when it’s plural) is an Italian flatbread prepared in the Emilia-Romagna region. The flatbread is filled with a variety of cheeses, cold cuts and/or vegetables. It’s traditionally made with lard, but I’ve made this one with vegetable shortening instead, to make it attainable for us all. It’s a fun weekend project to get in the kitchen and try out!
I get the weirdest cravings sometimes and they always hit me at the oddest hours. Normally, it’s right before bed, just after I’ve brushed my teeth and I’m already tucked in. Which I think is just a cruel joke the universe likes to play on me. It’s not like it’s possible to satisfy such a craving so late at night. These yearnings are never sweet. They always end up being savory, cheesy, and fried and bread is always involved in some way, shape or form. The other night I had an intense craving for pizza, but not your every day normal pizza with sauce and what not. This was more of a heartier pizza…like fluffy bread topped with cheese and onions. The kind of onions that are so caramelized they’re like jam. Then out of nowhere I was like, wouldn’t it be awesome if the bread was made with beer?! How delicious would that be? Then I told myself to go to sleep because hello, it was like 11:30PM and I had to wake up early to work and take care of my nephew. The craving eventually went away, but we now have this Caramelized Onion Beer Focaccia to show for it. Apparently dreams do come true. 
The holidays are in full swing and that means we really need to start thinking about our entertaining menus. 9 times out of 10 I wait until the last minute to plan things out, and then I’m left scrambling around trying to get my life in order like a chicken with it’s head cut off. It’s not a pretty sight. This year however, I’ve decided to take initiative and de-stress my holiday gatherings, so to speak. I’m getting a head start by sharing this beautiful holiday recipe for a show-stopping Baked Brie and Bread Wreath. Not only does it act as a delicious appetizer, but it can also double as an awesome centerpiece for any holiday party. I don’t know about you, but an edible centerpiece is just the kind of thing we need more of because they kill two birds with one stone. (Sorry for all the gruesome bird metaphors). I guarantee you 100% that if you place this on your table, everyone will be blown away and you’ll be the talk of the town. If you’re not ready for all that fame, perhaps don’t give this recipe a try. I’m kidding, you most definitely should give it a try because it’s ridiculously delicious! 
