be fearless & bake me happy

Many of you readers know that I love to cook, bake and enjoy fine cuisines, and that my cupboards are full of kitchen gadgets. So it should come as no surprise to you that since I have more "free time" on my hands, I've been getting my hands dirty in the kitchen whipping up new dishes and treats.

Recently I got together with my longtime friend Erica (no this isn't a typo) for a day of fellowship and baking. We set out to make Biscotti (Click for link{in bold} to the recipe. We used the almond extract version & added sliced almonds). This was my first time EVER baking Biscotti. We were so pleased because they turned out perfectly. I must say they are divine when you dunk them in your coffee. Biscotti was much easier to make than I anticipated. In fact, now it's become my "new thing" to bake.

Here's a picture of the first batch of Almond Biscotti I made at home on my own as a treat for my in law's travels; they turned out deliciously.
Below are a few pictures of the batch I made for my bible study, a new recipe, Chocolate Anise Biscotti from Giada De Laurentiis's cookbook Giada's Family Dinners.

Biscotti logs cooling before slicing and baking them for a second time.
Everything ALWAYS tastes better with chocolate!
Between my time with Erica, watching cooking shows while being sick at home this past week, and reading Julia Child's biography has lit my passion for cooking. Perhaps you'll be lucky and have the honor of trying my treats.

In the words of Julia Child in her book My Life In France, " This is my invariable advice to people: Learn how to cook-try new recipes, learn from your mistakes, be fearless, and above all have fun!"

So... go, be fearless!