Entries in Uncategorized (3)

Monday
Oct012012

No Sugar Update

I lasted 1 1/2 weeks. In some respects I think I failed. In others I know I won. 

In the failing category I love dessert and after 1 1/2 weeks of no sugar was presented with an opportunity to taste the new ice cream at Cupcake Royale and could not resist. This led me to understand that a purposeful dessert is important to me. 

In the winning category I have been drinking my coffee without sugar for 2 weeks now. And loving it. I have not had any sugar laden snacks instead choosing whole grains and protein and vegetables instead. I have lost 3 pounds without even trying. I am sleeping better and have more energy throughout the day. I fell like I am more aware and conscience of what I am eating which is a huge win for someone who eats when stressed. 

Monday
May102010

blueberry buttermilk muffins

I am always trying to find a way to use up buttermilk in the fridge. It seems like there is always one recipe calling for a scant amount of buttermilk and then I have a whole container on hand. The good part is I can try and use it up making yummy snacks like these blueberry buttermilk muffins.

You can use any berry on hand - frozen work great - I went with blueberry since that is what I had in my freezer. They turned out great and I delivered them warm to my volunteers at our pet adoption event at Immortal Dog.



2 1/2 cups (325 grams) all-purpose flour
3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated white sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
Zest of one orange or lemon
1 large egg, lightly beaten
3/4 cup (180 ml) buttermilk
2/3 cup (160 ml) safflower or canola oil
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 1/2 to 2 cups fresh or frozen berries (blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Position rack in center of oven. Butter or spray with a non stick cooking spray 12 muffin cups. Set aside.

In a large measuring cup or bowl whisk together the egg, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla extract.

In another large bowl combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and orange zest. Gently fold in the berries. With a rubber spatula fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir only until the ingredients are combined. Do not over mix the batter or tough muffins will result.

Fill each muffin cup almost full of batter, using two spoons or an ice cream scoop. Place in the oven and bake until a toothpick inserted in the center of a muffin comes out clean, about 20 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack and let cool for about 5 minutes before removing from pan. Dust with powdered sugar.

Makes 12 regular sized muffins or 6 jumbo muffins.

Note: If using frozen berries you may have to bake the muffins a little longer than the stated time. Also, if making jumbo sized muffins, again, you may have to bake the muffins a little longer.

Saturday
Mar062010

welcome to my life

Hi - it's me Nicole! I call Seattle my home with my main squeeze Mr. Ramon and our 3 pups Sophie, Mischa and Toby. I am excited to share the little things I find exciting with all of you!

I am very domesticated. I love laundry, pie crusts from scratch, natural home care and making jam.

I love design - home, objects, signs, packaging - anything that is spectacular.

I love fashion - obsessed with shoes, sunglasses, bags. 

I am planning a wedding! More on that later - but it's going to be a fun time!

Overall I have a busy mind and am excited to share what I am thinking of with all of you.

Thanks for reading!