Raspberry Thumbprint Cookie Recipe

We're a large family and often, we have surprised guests. I'm always prepared for this possibility and have uncooked cookie dough or individual dessert cups ready in the freezer. Today was no exception. I used readily-rolled almond cookie dough that I simply popped in the oven for 10 minutes, rotated the tray, pressed them to create a cavity and continue baking them for exactly an additional 8 minutes. Then, I filled the formed thumbprint cookies with hot vanilla raspberry preserves.

I served the cookies with masala chai and a tray of freshly cut pineapples and fresh raspberries. Voilà‎: tea time is served!

Mocha Thumbprint Cookie Recipe

Baby Aria is very similar to my husband Lulu when it comes to her favorite foods. She loves vegetables and she adores sweets. Today I experimented with a batch of cookies I usually make when we have guests over for tea: thumbprint cookies. They're so pretty, especially with the crackle effect on the shortbread cookie dough and the whimsical design in the center indentation that almost resembles a crazy eye.

I flavored the cookie dough with cocoa powder and mocha paste. I filled them with vanilla chips and a drizzle of bittersweet chocolate, which came out just as great. Have a wonderful weekend and I look forward to sharing recipes next week in anticipation of Cinco de Mayo!

Mint Julep Scones

If you love the official drink of the Kentucky Derby, you will adore these mint-flavored scones. I used my favorite Mint Julep Sugar from our friends over at Bourbon Barrel Foods for this sweet treat. The raw sugar creates a crunchy, sweet topping with a rich caramel flavor and a refreshing hint of mint.

Pair these with the Southern cocktail and I promise you won't be disappointed!

Meyer Lemon Yogurt Cake Recipe

I've made this cake recipe for years. I think I found the recipe when I was a little girl on the back of vanilla sugar packets that are commonly available in France. I haven't changed the base of the cake batter much since then.

The great part of this recipe is that the measuring tool is the yogurt container. And after making it once, you'll probably never have to refer to the recipe again. Simply remember "1, 2, 3, ½, 3": 1 yogurt, 2 measures of sugar, 3 measures of flour, half a measure of oil (½), 3 eggs, 1 packet of "levure" (baking powder) and 1 packet of vanilla sugar.

Instead of serving the cake plain, which by the way is great with tea, I flavored the cake with Meyer lemon zest and glazed it with a Meyer lemon mascarpone glaze. It was truly fantastic!

Sweet Treats for Valentine's Day: Chocolate Puffs

Just like last year, this year my Valentine is out of town for work. I dropped him at the airport on Monday morning, and even though we'll have to wait until the weekend to celebrate, I prepared a special sweet treat  for my husband Lulu that he can enjoy during his business trip. I packed a bag of these chocolate puffs in his suitcase, and once he landed, I sent him a message to tell him his favorite chocolate treats were waiting for him.

The secret to making these soft, fluffy French cookies is to use finely ground steel cut oats, which was provided by Bob's Red Mill. I met their reps during the Fancy Food Show at their booth in San Francisco. The dough is flavored with cocoa powder and I added chocolate chips to reinforce the chocolate flavor.

Give this sweet treat to your sweetheart; I guarantee it will be a hit!