yellow butt(::)n bake shoppe

to do list; bake with grapefruit

2012-02-04T14:23:00.000-08:00

take a look at these beauties!
i cannot wait to try out this recipe

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

Italian coconut cake

2012-02-03T07:15:00.000-08:00

the happiest birthday to me.

i was surprised all day by friends and family

with flowers, cards, balloons

my work family singing to me while helping a customer

Susan's warm raspberry coffee cake

sunshine outside, favorite mexican food with my bffs

friends over for cake, a gift certificate for a TATTOO!

for someone who hates surprises,

i was pleasantly surprised all day.

thank you, all ♥

Being able to bake my birthday cake was so much fun!

I was able to make it exactly the way I wanted

and even lick the spoons when I was done!

this cake was so dreamy.

a moist coconut pecan cake

topped with a buttery frosting & coconut

made for one hell of a cake.

What's your favorite birthday cake?

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

cranberry vanilla coffee cake

2012-02-02T21:41:00.000-08:00

[oh dear. it really has been too long.]

Cranberries are one of the best fruits to use during the winter.

I love baking and cooking with them because they are so versatile.

For this cake, the berries break down into a jam-like filling

squished in-between layers of butter coffee cake.

this cake is just divine.

the moment I spotted this recipe, I fell in love.

cranberries & vanilla sugar

all piled into one cake

makes for a wonderful winter treat!

simply make the batter, divide into two

fill the pan with half

top with cranberries & vanilla sugar

top with remaining batter

smooth the batter on top

sprinkle with sugar topping

bake until perfection!

[unfortunately when I baked this on Christmas morning, it needed about 10 more minutes in the oven. Therefore, the center was a bit raw, but that didn't stop us from devouring it!]

yellow

butt(::)n

is back

♥

forgive me!

2012-01-08T14:50:00.000-08:00

it's almost been a month since my last post!

with the holidays, i was working so many hours

& my days were filled with so many other activities

other than sitting on my computer.

so please please please forgive me for not posting.

as of december 28, i shattered my macbook screen.

i'm sending it out to the ihospital this week

so i will be blogging once it's healed.

until then, here's what to expect in the coming weeks.

christmas cookie baking [ha!]

vanilla cranberry coffee cake

Italian coconut cake

and a few more items that were captured.

I received a donut pan, a new cupcake pan, new mixing bowls,
and a few other baking necessities for christmas/23rd birthday
that i cannot wait to share with you!!

always.

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

red velvet.

2011-12-15T19:36:00.000-08:00

my favorite cake during this season.

red velvet with cream cheese icing.

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

Pumpkin Swirl Brownies

2011-12-12T06:11:00.000-08:00

Pumpkin & chocolate...not the normal combination for brownies.

I do admit, I have tried a lot of recipes that just don't taste good

even when the reviews are great.

But this recipe was from smitten and I trust her completely.

So I went out on a whim, and baked these swirl brownies.

You make 1 batter, than you split it to 2, and add the pumpkin.

You layer the chocolate brownie with the pumpkin 2 times each.

& swirl :)

The aroma in the kitchen during baking was phenomenal! Really.

But, the flavor of the brownie just isn't for me. It was interesting.

Almost crumbly..like the 2 batters just couldn't fully bake together.

I still love trying new recipes because it makes me feel more well-rounded.

Not just sticking to the normal things, but going out of the box

and really exploring the art of baking.

I encourage you to do the same.

Try not to get upset when a recipe doesn't work out.

Take it as a way of learning :)

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

vanilla cherry biscotti.

2011-12-07T20:11:00.000-08:00

yet again, it's been another week . . .

& i have recipes and photos piling up.

with all of the friends stopping by & having coffee, tea or hot chocolate,

biscotti was a necessity.

what flavor? whatever i wanted to make!

i started with a fig & walnut biscotti recipe because of the spices

and added my own spin to it.

tip for next time; a bit less sugar. white chips and dried cherries are so sweet

extra sugar isn't necessary, but doesn't hurt!

quite wonderful, and stores well in the cookie jar ♥

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

chocolate ginger cookies.

2011-11-30T20:19:00.000-08:00

its been weeks! thank you for sticking around ♥

chocolate ginger cookies, the best combination for this season.

not one flavor over the other

but both completely and equally perfect.

try them.

more to come!

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

pumpkin cupcakes with maple cream cheese.

2011-11-12T18:42:00.000-08:00

pumpkin cupcakes by smitten kitchen.

a must have on your fall-to-do-list

i always make her recipes because i know i can 100% trust them.

she is really lovely. you should give her a look.

a simple batter, full of spices & pumpkin

make up these perfect little cakes.

topped with the best ever maple cream cheese icing

so smooth and rich, with a subtle maple essence.

enjoying our saturday afternoon. he is just so handsome ♥

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

homemade apple pancakes with apple cider syrup

2011-11-12T08:37:00.000-08:00

a beautiful fall morning to wake up to.

apple pancakes were on my mind.

the first place i looked for a recipe was smitten

& of course, she had a wonderful recipe for me to use.

i figured this would be my last apple recipe for a while,

as my most recent posts have all been apple recipes.

time for pumpkin, cranberry, & pear desserts!

how to make apple pancakes.

chop the apples in a food processor.

i left the skin on, but you can peel them if you prefer.

gather the ingredients.

i cut the recipe in half since i was the only one eating them.

combine flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, & nutmeg.

combine the milk& egg + the dry ingredients.

heat a large cast iron skillet over low/medium heat with butter or oil.

flip when brown, maybe after 5 minutes on the first side & 3 on the other.

ready to eat!

apple cider syrup

heat 1 cup of apple cider on medium heat.

bring it to a boil & allow it to reduce/thicken.

add 1 tablespoon of pure maple syrup

&some freshly grated orange zest

add apple slices and heat until soft.

pour on top of the pancakes & enjoy!

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

oh, apple cake.

2011-11-11T19:26:00.000-08:00

a wonderful, moist apple bundt cake covered in a brown sugar glaze

[recipe]

oil sugar eggs flour

baking soda vanilla salt

cinnamon coconut walnuts

& your favorite apples.

it pretty much has all of my favorite things in it.

apples, cinnamon, coconut & walnuts.

[you can probably substitute the nuts for raisins]

i love cakes that are just mixed, baked, and served. no fuss. really

this would be great for a breakfast treat or brunch.

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

apple streusel coffee cake

2011-11-06T05:54:00.000-08:00

yes yes yes, new jersey had a lovely snow storm in october this year.

which left me inside with only one thing to do; BAKE!

so with some of my apples that had been ignored for about a week,

i decided they were ready to be baked in this yummy cake.

Joy Of Baking has done it again with yet another wonderful recipe that i will cherish.

apple streusel coffee cake

for the streusel; flour, cinnamon, butter, brown sugar.

cake; flour, baking powder, salt, butter, sugar, egg, vanilla, milk & apples.

a very easy cake to prepare in a short time

[most of these ingredients you will have on hand.]

perfect for breakfast, brunch, and even for dessert with ice cream on top.

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

a fall craft.

2011-11-03T07:52:00.000-07:00

August, September, & October is the prime time for apples.

This weekend is the Apple Festival in Peddler's Village. I love going there.

Apples everywhere!

Dumplings, pies, apple butter, cider,

fritters, and caramel dipped apples!

here we are from last years festival.

a simple apple can inspire me to do something other then bake with it.

a simple fall craft for a dinner party or just everyday decoration.

what you'll need; an apple, lemon juice, a paring knife, and a tealight/votive candle.

cut out the center of the apple from the top, half way down

and cut the bottom of the apple so the apple sits flat.

brush the inside of the apple with lemon juice so prevent browning.

insert the candle.

light your candle and enjoy!

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

mom's applesauce.

2011-10-29T20:43:00.000-07:00

I have such fond memories of my mom making applesauce my entire life.

I even remember her hiding our vitamins in the applesauce.

But most of all, I just love that she actually made it homemade.

It is so easy and much cheaper than buying it in the store.

And it really is much more tasty. You can mix up different apples & spices.

Plus, you get to eat it warm when it's finished.

No recipe or measurements needed.

Just "what mom does"

Enjoy ♥

a variety of apples

no need for peeling [just wash] Put the apples in a pot and cover with water

Bring to a boil, then let simmer for 35-45 minutes on low.

Use a food mill to process the apples

sugar and spice & everything nice.

add your favorite spices to taste*; cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves.

add granulated sugar or brown sugar to taste*

or enjoy it plain.

*to taste = add sugar or spices for however sweet or spicy you prefer it.

This will last about a week or so in the refrigerator

and can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

& that's if it lasts THAT long!

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

blueberry crumb cake.

2011-10-29T12:39:00.000-07:00

a buttery cake on the bottom, fruit or nuts in between, and a thick crumb topping.

What a diverse recipe, as you can change the fruit

mix fruit together, add nuts or chocolate

and it can be baked in so many different pans. I used a 9" cake pan and cut into slices.

You can easily double the recipe and use a 9x13 pan to cut the cake into squares.

adapted from Ina Garten

this lovely cake is sure to please a crowd

& can be served for breakfast, brunch, and dessert.

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

fudge brownies.

2011-10-24T07:36:00.000-07:00

I usually take pictures of the baking process,

but with these, I just wanted them out of the oven and in my mouth!

This is my favorite homemade fudge brownie recipe, adapted from joy of baking.

Only 8 ingredients make up these gooey brownies.

With 1 1/2 pounds of melting chocolate*, [thank you Fudge Shoppe!]

6 farm fresh eggs, 2 sticks of unsalted butter

2 cups of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of pure vanilla

1 1/2 cups of all purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder

and a pinch of salt complete these treats.

*I combined 1/2 semi sweet & 1/2 dark chocolate. I definitely recommend doing this,

and using good quality chocolate, not chocolate chips.

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

getaway.

2011-10-23T15:47:00.000-07:00

those trees.

mini apples.

the sun bursting forth.

my love covered in sweet sun spots.

a pretty bird [& wonderful hostess]

a tall 'tree'...

every picture displays how beautiful the weekend truly was.

i love to get away, especially with my husband, and especially visiting great friends.

this was our second trip to Rochester, NY so we were a little familiar...

we enjoyed the weekend meeting new friends, going to the market,

drinking so much coffee, great food from so many new restaurants,

apple picking, the irish pub, and just relaxing.

we can't wait to go back ♥

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

farm stand adventures, 3

2011-10-23T15:16:00.000-07:00

A sweet little stand on the way home from church

that I have passed for the past 3 years and never stopped.

well........ I finally stopped and I am so glad that I did.

a basic setup, yet completely filled with all sort of fruits and vegetables

& so many varieties of each.

plum tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, roma tomatoes, yellow tomatoes, beef tomatoes

every apple. literally

herbs, fresh lavender, hot peppers, fresh cut flowers

oh, and little jars of jam made right from their garden.

this summer, I made a point to visit every farm stand within 10 miles of my home

so many of which I didn't take my camera to, but I am so ready for next summer

& by then, I plan to have all of my canning tools ready to go!

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

keep up.

2011-10-18T19:41:00.000-07:00

hi! fall is definitely here ♥

i am doing my best at embracing this season as much as possible
by baking autumn desserts and wearing fall clothes...

but also trying to embrace a new season of life..

...a season of change.

the simple joys of life are so close
we just need to reach for them
and apply them to our daily lives.

butt(::)n has a lot planned.
anything with cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice.

muffins, pies, leaf & apple shaped cookies

applesauce, apple butter, apple dumplings
all sorts of cakes and quick-breads.

and so so much more!

a first sign of fall for me...pumpkin cupcake liners at the store :)

enjoy this season.

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

pecan pie.

2011-10-15T19:51:00.000-07:00

a great pecan pie is one of my favorites.

you literally combine everything in a bowl, pour into your shell, and bake.

this pecan pie, i didn't get to eat unfortunately.

i had to give it away :( but i was told that it was really great

especially because i added some bourbon for some extra flavor.

all i keep hearing, though, is that the crust is the best part! yippy!

enough talking, let's see some pieeeeeeee!

preheat oven to 350 degrees

combine 1 cup light corn syrup, 3 eggs,

1 cup sugar, 2 tablespoons melted butter,

1 teaspoon vanilla + 'a splash' of bourbon [or more]

add 6 ounces chopped pecans

pour into pie shell + bake 60-70 minutes.

pecan pie is a fall dessert staple.

i can't wait to bake it more throughout the season!

mini pies, pie in a jar, even chocolate pecan pie!

or a new recipe i saw, 'apple pecan pie'.

lots planned for this season, so keep reading ♥

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

a slice of pie.

2011-10-12T19:44:00.000-07:00

finalllllllly updating about my apple pie from last week.

i'm super behind on posting all of the baking i've been doing

but please stay tuned. i have much to share with you all.

this apple pie was just devine.

the crust was buttery and flakey

the crumbs were slightly brown

the filling was barely pouring over the edge

absolutely my new favorite ♥

ooh, yum.

pie tips!

1. The crust is SO important. Yes, pre-made is easiest, but all you need is flour, shortening/butter, salt, & water! You can make a few and either freeze the dough or refrigerate for a few days until you need it. If you need to use pre-made crust, be creative and spice it up a bit. Decorate it with a pretty edging, egg wash, and cinnamon sugar. A little goes a long way.

2. What you put into your pie really counts. Substituting fresh apples for apple pie filling is silly. I know it's convenient & I've done it before, but I've been trying my best at baking completely scratch and I urge you to do the same (if you can!) If not, just like the crust, add your own ingredients to make it one of a kind. Add more spices, maybe some fresh fruit, raisins, nuts, something to make it special and different.

3. Bake seasonally. Fall is here! Bake with what's available to you. Apples, pumpkin, cranberries, figs, & pears.

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

apple pie.

2011-10-02T15:33:00.000-07:00

apple pie is so homey ♥

you really cannot get any more domestic than this.

the aroma while baking an apple pie is just beautiful.

the smell of spicy cinnamon & nutmeg, and fresh cut apples.

i just love it.

i used a basic recipe from a sweet little old lady from Iowa.

she was in the October edition of Taste of Home 'Picks of the Crop'

she uses over 500 pounds of apples during the fall and winter

to bake for friends & family from September-December...every year!

her recipe is standard.

pie dough made of flour, salt, & shortening.

filling made of apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, sugar, & flour

crumb topping made of flour, butter, & sugar.

step 1. make the dough

step 2. make the filling

step 3. make the crumb topping

step 4. fill the pie and top with crumb

pie is in the oven..

check back for a second post !

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

just peachy.

2011-10-01T19:46:00.000-07:00

the end of summer means using up all of the peaches you possible can.

i decided to spend one afternoon baking a peach bundt cake

I also made homemade peach butter to go with it.

my goal for this summer was to actually can a lot of things

but that completely fell through. WAH

but, I hope to accomplish this goal this fall/winter with some basics.

applesauce. jam. red sauce.

but for now, peach cake with peach butter.

[recipe for peach bread]

and of course, smitten kitchen with the peach butter recipe.

i really count on other food bloggers to help me find great recipes

they inspire me to be better at what i do, and to try my best.

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

apple muffins.

2011-09-30T18:44:00.000-07:00

one of my favorite things to do is search for new food blogs

with great recipes, great pictures, and good feedback.

i really love trying new recipes. sometimes they fail, but i like the challenge.

to kick off fall, i made apple muffins.

yes, with real chunks of apple

& even applesauce (instead of oil)

these were delicious.

very moist with a crunchy topping.

[recipe]

the key to a great muffin is not over-mixing the batter.

literally, only mix until the ingredients are barely combined.

also, you can substitute applesauce for oil.

if you're nervous, try 1/2 oil 1/2 applesauce

but really, 100% applesauce makes the muffin more hearty and natural.

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

turkey chili, corn bread, & cheddar scones.

2011-09-30T18:32:00.000-07:00

hi!

so, a few weeks ago, mike & i decided to invite people over to watch football.

a sport i cheered for, for 9 years. a sport that mike barely knows...

but how fun it was to cook chili, cornbread& scones

for my friends to enjoy during the game one sunday night.

i think our love of cooking for our friends made this meal even better.

homemade turkey chili.

basic, hearty, and spicy.

little cornbread muffins.

because...well, they're much more cute.

jalapeno cheddar scones.

absolutely delightful and so flavorful.

[recipe]

we hope to have many more game nights,

but mainly to cook and feed our friends

because it's what we love.

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

100th.

2011-09-29T11:22:00.000-07:00

stay tuned!

new recipes!

new adventures!

new pictures!

new helpful tips!

thanks for reading.

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

chicken soup.

2011-09-24T08:36:00.000-07:00

since February, I have been making this basic soup
that I found in my taste of home cookbook
over the months, I have changed it, but still sticking to the same base.
soup is seriously an incredible thing.
Even on warmer days, I'm totally okay with eating a huge bowl of soup with crusty bread.

what to do.
I saute garlic, onions, carrots, & celery in a bit of oil.
Add seasonings, but don't go overboard on salt.
if I have homemade stock on hand, I use that,
but when I don't, I prefer bouillan cubes instead of buying a huge box of stock.
so at this point. I add the cubes & water [about 8 cubes, 8-10 cups water]
Let it boil.

In another pan, saute garlic in oil.
Add chicken, & brown [7-9 minutes]
Once cooked, transfer to a cutting board and let cool.

Add beans & pasta! I always use white cannenilli beans
and an entire bag/box of good, sturdy pasta [egg noodles work really well]
Let it boil, again.

Reduce heat.
Pull the chicken using 2 forks or your hand, then add to the soup.
If I have zucchini and squash, I add it now.
Cover the soup, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
Right before serving, I add handfuls [3 cups] of washed spinach [without the stems of course]
Stir & serve with your favorite bread or crackers.

I am a baker that loves to cook as much as I love to bake.

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

granola bars.

2011-09-19T09:31:00.000-07:00

i've made granola quite a few times in the past,

but never in the form of a bar.

this was my first attempt at making granola bars..

unsuccessful, yes.

tasty, yep!

the problem?

i used too big of a baking dish so they couldn't set properly.

the next time i make these, i will use a shallow pan!

but anyways, here are a few pictures that i just love.

since they didn't set, i bagged it all up and just ate it as regular granola.

thank goodness for things that are versatile.

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

eggplant.

2011-09-19T09:21:00.000-07:00

one of our favorite dinners is chicken parmesan.

but last weekend, we decided to make eggplant parmesan.

first, start with farm fresh eggplant.

slice it, coat it in a batter, and fry it!

make the sauce...

layer the eggplant, sauce, & cheese in a baking dish.

bake until the cheese is melted.

serve over pasta &enjoy!

yellow button is more than just baking!

i love cooking almost as much as i love to bake.

i try to make something basic, yet tasty every night for dinner

and i love cooking for other people. it really is a simple joy

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

farm stand adventures, 2

2011-09-12T09:55:00.000-07:00

hello, again!

farm stand adventures is back for round 2.

this time, Quaker Lane Farm Stand in Quakertown, NJ.

The cutest little back road farm stand ever.

I met the cutest old man there.

He has this little handmade farm stand set up on his property,

as well as a huge garden filled with flowers & veggies.

He thought I was from the newspaper because I was taking pictures [haha]

But I do admit that he had a huge tomato farm with gorgeous tomatoes!

I bought tomatoes, onions, & corn.

Totally forgot that I bought the corn, and used it a whole week later for my corn bread muffins

and the corn was still beautiful, perfect, and crunchy.

I can't wait to visit that stand again & bring a baked good!

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

bourbon peach cupcakes.

2011-09-07T16:59:00.000-07:00

as always, smitten kitchen is perfect.

perfect little recipes for me to make & share with you.

...

labor day consisted of baking these cupcakes

& then sharing them, well at least trying to, with an entire picnic.

bad idea only bringing a dozen? yes.

good idea putting them inside during the party? no.

the usual labor day picnic with The Fudge Shoppe family

loaded with burgers and dogs,

salads, and sides

pulled pork drenched in beer

& the most perfect chili

....dessert to follow....

i went inside to grab the tupperware of peach cupcakes from the refrigerator

but they were already taken out.

there were 3 men staring at me with red faces.

guilty as charged.

5! not 4, not 3, not 2, not 1.

but 5 cupcakes were already gone!

i was happily pleased that the guests enjoyed them.

we spent the rest of the evening making jokes about the cupcakes

& about how badly they wanted me to buy more ingredients,

go inside, and just make them right there.

...taking my ordering forms from now on!

yellow

butt(::)n

a very happy birthday.

2011-09-07T16:45:00.000-07:00

for my mom, my inspiration.

she prefers vanilla buttercream + vanilla cake

but this year we changed it up a bit.

some chocolate cupcakes with $%#@ incredible chocolate buttercream

& a simple white cake frosted with that ^ same icing.

she.loved.it.

we all did.

happy birthday!

here's to another year.

♥ mom ♥

yellow

butt(::)n

pink & yellow wedding

2011-09-05T19:01:00.000-07:00

a pink & yellow barn wedding.

absolutely adorable.

125 cupcakes; vanilla, chocolate, & lemon.

a barn fully lit by the sun & string lights.

shavings on the ground...

mason jars & sunflowers

galvanized buckets...

potted mums & hay bales in the distance

a perfect jersey barn wedding!

Congratulations to Elise & Lucas

yellow

butt(::)n

♥

farm stand adventures.

2011-09-01T20:39:00.000-07:00

new new new new new new new.

im starting a new segment on my blog

called, 'farm stand adventures!'

i will be checking out little family operated stands until december

i figured this was a good idea since i take pictures of everything i bake/cook,

i might as well show you where it all comes from!

first on the list, Bonacorsi Family Farm

located in Flemington, NJ on RT 579.

i thoroughly enjoyed this little stand.

everything was priced accurately, and looked great.

they offer 'pick your own' seasonally, too.

everything is grown on their farm. they do not re-sell, and i love that!

[website]

i bought peaches, apples, & onions that will last us a week.

definitely a cute little stand that i will visit again.

those peaches were the best yet.

yellow

butt(::)n

let's have smore'!

2011-09-01T18:27:00.000-07:00

chocolate cupcake.

marshmallow buttercream.

graham cracker crumbs.

deeee-lish!

[recipe]

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

my most favorite cookies.

2011-08-27T15:08:00.000-07:00

once again, chocolate chunk cookies.

this time with oatmeal & almond extract.

yummy little things.

[recipe]

favorites.

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

beautiful.

2011-08-27T14:30:00.000-07:00

i aspire to be this creative.

so simple, yet incredible.

[source]

so long, summer cake.

2011-08-26T13:23:00.000-07:00

summers end is quickly approaching.

time for pumpkins, spice, & everything nice.

goodbye to local berries & delicious fruits.

so long, summer.

[recipe]

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

lemon yogurt loaf.

2011-08-26T13:15:00.000-07:00

Ina Garten never ceases to amaze me.

simple simple simple ingredients + flavors

lemon zest, yogurt, fresh raspberries.

[recipe]

absolutely one of my new favorites.

the original recipe is only lemon

so i doubled it and made a lemon raspberry loaf too.

i like how versatile this recipe is.

next time ill add blueberries & brown sugar. yum!

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

vegetable soup.

2011-08-25T09:14:00.000-07:00

my love of soup has totally grown.

i love to cook, i always have.

but soup is especially easy, as long as you take the time.

this soup has all sorts of veggies;

mire a poix = onions celery carrots sauteed in butter/oil.

its the base of the soup and brings the most flavor.

zucchini, yellow squash, green beans, tomatoes

and of course, some pasta for some depth.

sometimes vegetable soup is pretty bland,

but it's a good place to start for soup-beginners.

my plans for fall include soup once a week, preferably sunday.

butternut squash, carrot & ginger, pumpkin

beef soup, chicken tortilla [my favorite]

cream of chicken, & many others.

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

a vineyard wedding..

2011-08-25T09:02:00.000-07:00

i had the privaledge of baking for another wedding last weekend.

i completely fell in love with the order the bride gave me...

lemon cupcakes with lemon buttercream

red velvet cupcakes with maple cream cheese icing

chocolate cake, pastry cream & fresh raspberries with white chocolate buttercream

i love making someone's special day a little bit sweeter.

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

onion soup.

2011-08-18T19:01:00.000-07:00

a lovely bakery customer was talking to me about gardening the other day.

a few days later, she stopped me in the parking lot

& handed me 5 pounds of her garden onions. i was so happy!

onions are cheap at the store, so it's really not a big deal..

but the fact that some random person wanted to share with me,

just made my day.

since then, so many different customers have been bringing in treats..

jam, tomatoes, and a watermelon, all locally grown.

♥

so for the onions, what else would i make

besides french onion soup!?!

yum! i can't wait to make this again during the fall & winter!

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

anniversary photoshoot.

2011-08-13T13:22:00.000-07:00

click here to see some really beautiful pictures

that my friend jess took & greg edited.
we just love having talented friends
willing to do something simple
to make our one year
so special

♥

thank you, jess&greghandmade. you're such a lovely team.

wedding flowers, redone.

2011-08-08T08:12:00.000-07:00

Elliot & Danielle were wed August 6, 2011

They had a lovely wedding.

I was lucky enough to bring home their centerpiece,

& this is how I'm displaying it at home!

this is how the flowers were at the wedding...

& this is how I am displaying them on my windowsill.

such a happy day

with beautiful, simple flowers.

♥

you know I love you so.

2011-08-07T20:50:00.000-07:00

one year ago today, I married the love of my life....

♥

& walked down the isle to our pianist playing 'yellow' by coldplay...

[listen]

exchanged our promises, vows, & rings...

danced the night away as husband & wife...

shared a delicious blueberry peach cobbler

[thanks Ellie]

& the rest is all history!

thank you! to everyone who was a part of our wedding last august.

we are officially done being called 'newly-weds!'

on to the next one....

♥

Mr & Mrs. Finelli

key lime pie, [continued.]

2011-08-04T20:50:00.000-07:00

look at how cute my mom is!

i love her apple kitchen too

its so country and home-y

she is just so bubbly, she is my inspiration

a green plate to match the key lime pie.

only topped with the best....cool whip haha!

& freshly grated lime zest

so creamy and smooth

so simple.

thanks mom ,love you girlll.

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

key lime pie.

2011-08-04T11:37:00.000-07:00

a 30 year old recipe

that my mom has treasured

and now shared with me

♥

[ps. this entry is pretty much all pictures]

finished project?!?!

you'll have to check back later!

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

sunflower.

2011-07-28T09:13:00.000-07:00

&it was all yellow

♥

bing cherries.

2011-07-27T19:35:00.000-07:00

i can't wait to bake something with these.

i just keep snacking instead!

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

little love triangles.

2011-07-26T17:04:00.000-07:00

still obsessed.

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

jersey fresh.

2011-07-21T07:37:00.000-07:00

sweet jersey corn

jersey tomatoes

homemade potato salad

turkey burgers stuffed with basil & mozzarella

picnic food for dinner, my favorite ♥

i love cooking with ground turkey, especially when making burgers.

the flavor is so much better than beef and the meat is super lean.

i used this recipe for the meat.

i highly recommend it. the burgers were so juicy and flavorful.

enjoy!

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

zinnia's.

2011-07-21T07:16:00.000-07:00

inspiration.

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

morning parfait.

2011-07-18T07:34:00.000-07:00

start with your favorite homemade granola

add vanilla yogurt, and top with fresh blueberries.

add another layer of granola + yogurt

top with freshly sliced peaches

good for me.

good for you.

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

homemade refrigerator pickles.

2011-07-18T07:19:00.000-07:00

you may be wondering...

pickles?? from a baker?? why?!

simply because they are the easiest homemade thing to make

and you save money making them yourself!

refrigerator dill pickles ♥

put fresh dill in the bottoms of the jars.

add your fresh & washed cucumbers

[preferably pickling ones, if not, just short ones from your local farm stand]

add the vinegar, water, salt, pepper, coriander seeds,

sugar, red pepper flakes, and sliced onions.

put the lids on, place in your refrigerator for 24 hours.

open & enjoy!

[eat within 2 weeks]

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

zucchini bread

2011-07-13T13:46:00.000-07:00

always smitten by smitten kitchen ♥

the best ever, barely sweet, zucchini bread

[recipe]

this recipe is great because it allows the zucchini to be the star.

i only added golden raisins this time,

but i can't wait to make it again with nuts & chocolate chips!

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

brown shelled eggs.

2011-07-12T18:49:00.000-07:00

i absolutely love when 2 1/2 dozen farm fresh eggs are given to me randomly!

it really makes me appreciate people & their understanding

on how important it is to bake with fresh, local ingredients.

thank you! [i'll return the cartons!]

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

homemade granola

2011-07-11T07:03:00.000-07:00

stove top granola!

2-3 cups of old fashioned rolled oats

1 tablespoon oil

1/3 cup butter

2 tablespoons honey

1/3 cup brown sugar

1 tablespoon vanilla

1 teaspoon cinnamon

(raisins, walnut, dried fruit, coconut all optional)

heat oil in large skillet.

add oats and cook over medium for 5 minutes [you will smell the oats toasting]

pour oats onto a sheet pan

return skillet to heat, and melt the butter, honey, & brown sugar. stir.

add oats back to the skillet, combining with the butter mixture.

add raisins, dried fruit, coconut, nuts [optional]

add vanilla and cinnamon

pour back onto a sheet pan and let cool.

store in an airtight container for 2 weeks!

[recipe]

always

yellow butt(::)n

♥

plum-nectarine buckle.

2011-07-06T17:44:00.000-07:00

nectarines & plums coated in sugar + lemon juice.

butter, flour, sugar, baking powder, milk, egg, vanilla, nutmeg, &salt.

top with fruit

add your favorite crumb topping

and there you have it!

a simple cake that will leave your home with the sweetest aroma.

baking in the summer is unlike anything else.

beautiful & seasonal fruit.

simple ingredients.

one happy girl

& hubby!

[recipe]

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

featured on peacelovebird!

2011-07-04T07:30:00.000-07:00

eek! thanks green bird
always a pleasure baking with/for you.

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

happy 4th of July.

2011-07-04T06:44:00.000-07:00

[photo credit]

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

berry cobbler.

2011-07-02T06:52:00.000-07:00

berry cobbler with an oatmeal coconut topping.

dalloped with homemade whipped cream.

[this is my favorite picture i have ever taken of my desserts]

so many options when making cobbler, crisp, or crumbles.

fresh, local fruit

good butter & oats

the perfect size baking dish

good friends to share it with.

[recipe]

♥

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

cooking with friends!

2011-07-02T06:46:00.000-07:00

such a lovely evening.

good food, great wine, awesome friends.

i love summer!

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

mason jars.

2011-07-01T07:30:00.000-07:00

i love seeing my little jars all dolled up.

[photo credit]

farm fresh.

2011-06-30T19:05:00.000-07:00

growing up in new jersey, especially hunterdon county,

you learn to love your surroundings.

i love the little farm stands randomly placed all throughout the area.

we have so many that i didn't even know about!

some in town, some up on the hill, some on the highways..

sure, going to the super market is great and all

but when you get to see where your fruit & veggies come from

your world will be changed. i promise.

i have grown to appreciate what my town has to offer

&i wish you all the same.

always

yellow butt(::)n

♥

strawberry summer cake.

2011-06-30T16:25:00.000-07:00

honestly. this cake is the best.

i've made it twice, and it seems to be even better the next time.

i can't wait to make it differently during each season.

i adore simple recipes that are wholesome and so enjoyable.

[recipe]

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

nectarine cake.

2011-06-29T18:19:00.000-07:00

fresh nectarines

coated in sugar

baked to perfection.

simple.

[recipe]

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

homegrown.

2011-06-29T06:52:00.000-07:00

yes yes yesss i know! MORE pie pictures!

the photo shoot happened over a month ago

and was already featured on ruggledblog.com

but i can't help it. these pictures are fantastic.

i am just so thankful for talented friends.

please check out www.cmostr.com! for more great photo's.

always

yellow butt(::)n

♥

so blessed.

2011-06-23T15:03:00.000-07:00

hello again!

if you haven't already, please read my previous post! and go go gooo there!

yellow butt(::)n is like, famous!

i am so blessed to of been asked to bake for a wedding photo shoot in may.

luckily, i was able to get an incredible collection of pictures

from two amazing photographers, Sam & Adam from ---> here!

i am forever grateful for them, and the pictures they shot.

Lets look at some sweet pics!

homemade.

cranberry orange scones, strawberry jam

blueberry peach pie &

berry pie with an oatmeal crumb topping.

perfect for any "homegrown wedding".

thanks again, wonderful photographers, for capturing these beautiful pictures.

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

check it out!!!!

2011-06-22T13:59:00.000-07:00

i'm on ruffledblog.com

could this be ANY cooler!

i made those pies!

wahhhhoooo!!!

[more pictures to come]

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

german chocolate cake!

2011-06-20T07:33:00.000-07:00

i have no words.

this cake came out better than i could of ever imagined

and im absolutely obsessed!

eat cake.

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

carrots.

2011-06-16T10:29:00.000-07:00

carrot cake, again :)

love little dallops of icing !

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

cherry cheesecake

2011-06-15T16:23:00.000-07:00

thanks to my sister Jaime, she provided me with a really easy individual cheesecake recipe

it is absolutely amazing and dummy-proof.

also, it is such a basic recipe that you can add different flavors to it!

toast the graham cracker/butter mixture in the oven.

beat the cream cheese and sugar.

add the eggs and vanilla

fill the liners 2/3.

i'll post the recipe soon!

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

lately..

2011-06-14T16:58:00.000-07:00

new cake stands!

a yellow bundt pan!

flour sifter/masher!

love new things that are old.

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

c o o k i e s !

2011-06-13T07:35:00.000-07:00

hello there.

ive made a few cookie posts in the past, but this one is the most legit one ever

thanks to this girl.

i love her blog, her pictures, and the recipes she uses.

definitely check it out.

these cookies were the best ive ever made.

its the perfect basic chocolate chip cookie recipe

but can also be filled with many more things.

today; milk &white pecan cookies.

also!

ice cream sandwich; mint chocolate chip cookie sandwich

i love trying out new recipes & making changes to them.

reading blogs make this really easy for me

because i get to read lovely comments that help me with my decision

next time i make this recipe, it will be strictly chocolate.

have a beautiful day!

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

still

2011-06-12T20:13:00.000-07:00

my favorite in the entire world.

that sun

that field

that boy

that dress

that day.

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

sweet, sweet tea.

2011-06-12T19:58:00.000-07:00

all grown up.

2011-06-12T19:49:00.000-07:00

jenna jenna bo benna

banana fanna fo fenna

fee fi fo mema

jennnnna!

jenna, a sweet little tot, graduated

and i was able to help celebrate!

oh, and i baked her cupcakes!

vanilla & double chocolate cake, topped with vanilla buttercream.

Jenna's friends and family enjoyed the cupcakes,

and i was glad i could make her day a little bit 'sweeter'

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

strawberry frosting

2011-06-10T11:29:00.000-07:00

lemon cake

fresh strawberry buttercream

just darling.

tips! tips! tips!

1. if you have extra cake batter, whip up a cake! change the flavor if possible. today i was making vanilla cupcakes and had enough extra batter to make a 9" layer cake. i added fresh lemon zest and juice to the mix and out came a lemon cake [my favorite obsession]

2. i wanted to use a frosting that was fit for the day. its hot, and its summer time so why not use fresh berries! i chopped them up and folded them into a basic buttercream recipe. [eat within 2 days]

3. fill the cake and ice only the top. the cake looks more home-made, and almost healthier to eat.

berry frosting.

2 sticks of room temperature butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
16 ounces powdered sugar
1/2 cup fresh, chopped berries

1. beat butter & vanilla.
2. slowly add sugar, alternating with berries.
3. whip until desired consistency.
enjoy

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

follow mah fwend.

2011-06-09T19:13:00.001-07:00

favorites.

2011-06-09T11:17:00.000-07:00

sugar bear.

fall.

schmiggy.

sister.

apples.

out west.

warmth.

tea.

bird &tree.

home ♥

simplicity.

2011-06-06T19:50:00.000-07:00

nothing creative

nothing new

grilled cheese, fruit, & a crunch,

reminds me of my child hood & how simple things were.

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

a bike for button.

2011-06-06T09:53:00.000-07:00

i loveeee it.

i can't wait to add some accessories to it!

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

eye spy something yellow.

2011-06-04T08:16:00.000-07:00

yellow fings.

[photo credit]

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

fresh peach cobbler

2011-05-30T15:46:00.000-07:00

memorial day = picnic!

so I stopped by the farm stand for white peaches this morning..

and out came a peach cobbler!

naturally sweet.

simple.

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

sneak peak!

2011-05-21T21:27:00.000-07:00

pie

credit : www.cmostr.com

so excited!

2011-05-21T06:32:00.000-07:00

i had the privilege of baking for a sweet photo shoot today!

check out Sam & Adam's work here!

heres a preview of the pictures i took before the shoot!

once the photographers edit the pictures, i'll post a link to that!

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

lil' peach.

2011-05-14T16:14:00.000-07:00

the most precious, resourceful, home-made, hand-made gift

thank you, amy :)

i can't wait to bake you a pie this summer

always

yellow butt(::)n

♥

raspberry peach

2011-05-12T11:26:00.000-07:00

pie :)

this was my first time making this flavor pie

it didn't really work out the way i expected

but i opened up my fannie farmer cook book

to find some tips for next time.

im definitely looking forward to the next peach pie :)

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

vanilla& chocolate.

2011-05-09T06:57:00.000-07:00

my scratch yellow cake +

Andrea's chocolate frosting recipe =

one hell of a cake.

for my husbands birthday <3

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

love!

2011-04-19T14:27:00.000-07:00

[source]

a sweet bite.

2011-04-17T12:33:00.000-07:00

♥

always.

yellow butt(::)n

plain & simple.

2011-04-16T14:51:00.000-07:00

green leaf, spinach, cucumbers

sun-dried tomatoes, onions, apple

walnuts, dried cranberries, strawberries

&my homemade honey vinnegrette.

amen, to things being 'simple'.

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

twin brides.

2011-04-09T19:22:00.000-07:00

we're cute!

shout out!

2011-04-05T19:05:00.000-07:00

hi, Jenna.

thanks for stopping by today!

i love your new blog!

see you tomorrow for dinner!

a new hummingbird.

2011-04-05T19:02:00.000-07:00

you may ask, hummingbird?

YESSS YES YES, hummingbird cupcakes!

mashed banana

coconut

crushed pineapple

walnuts

&spice

topped with cream cheese icing!

but today, i decided to be wild, and switch out the banana for carrot.

a new hummingbird :)

chopped carrots

coconut

crushed pineapple

walnuts

raisins

cinnamon &nutmeg.

a hearty combination of sweet & spicy

yummy with or without icing

as always, i made some extra icing.

so tomorrow, expect something else with cream cheese icing!

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

a blast from the past.

2011-04-04T11:39:00.000-07:00

okay, that title is a little too jersey.

but so am i, and so is my lovely friend brandy.

she stopped by for a quick visit today.

brandy and i have been friends since 2007

we met in our first class ever at college, and have great friends since.

we can go months without talking, because of our busy lives

but when we talk or hang out, or even text each other,

its like we're back to being in each others' lives 24/7.

from rhode island...

to colorado...

to new jersey...

friends forever!

always.

yellow butt(::)n

sweet cravings

2011-03-29T15:41:00.000-07:00

followed my craving today by immediately baking cookies.

but not just any cookies..

coconut chocolate butterscotch cookies

pure bliss.

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

mama cakes.

2011-03-28T08:15:00.000-07:00

mom & bob finally got married after 16 years!!

mom planned a simple wedding.

tulips in vases.

spring colored napkins.

a short wedding dress.

& white on white cupcakes!

s i m p l i c i t y

some liners were little tulips, the rest in white.

all topped with yellow and green sugar pearls.

love you, mom.

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥

carrot &peach.

2011-03-24T09:09:00.000-07:00

peach bread [thanks, mom ♥]

delightful.

always.

yellow butt(::)n

♥