The term “cupcake” was first revealed in 1828 in Eliza Leslie’s Receipts cookbook. In the early 19th century, there were two different uses for the name “cup cake” or “cupcake”. In previous centuries, before muffin tins were widely available, the cakes were often baked in individual pottery cups, ramekins, or molds and took their name…
Tag: dolce
What Does Easter Represent To You?
Massive Chocolate eggs, filled with treasures and sweet secrets… Source: washingtonian.com “Torta Pasqualina” Source: trendalert.it Torta Pasqualina was originally produced as an Easter pie around 1400 in Genova, Italy. The name itself comes from “Pasqua”, the Italian word for Easter. Traditionally, the pie was prepared using 33 thin layers of phyllo dough–in honor of Jesus’ age when he was…
Easter Ricotta Rice Pie
This Ricotta Rice pie recipe of my Mama Carmela’s and Grandma Lena’s is dedicated to the Camarata family and to the memories of Easter Sundays spent at our cottage by the lake. This is one of our family’s traditional Easter desserts and like many Italian dolces, it is simple and lightly sweet with just a…
Ice Cream (gelato) versus il gelato…There IS a Difference!
If you’ve ever visited Italy, you’ve more that likely had the pleasure of experiencing velvety, luscious Italian gelato or possibly an icier version similar to American ice milk gone Italian ice. Maybe you assumed the only reason it seemed richer and more flavorful than American ice cream was because you were enjoying it in the…
Cioccolato e Caramello Gelato Affogato
What a big name for such a simple decadent treat. Serve this as a dinner aperitif—one won’t spoil your appetite. As an after dinner treat in place of dessert. Or anytime you wish to experience the harmonious blend of coffee, cream and chocolate. Let your imagination run wild with the additions: Kahlua, chocolate fudge, sprinkles,…
Got Mik?! Then You Got Ricotta Cheese in Less Than an Hour! Without Leaving Your Kitchen!
What happens when you find the perfect ricotta recipe and there’s none to be found? Solution! Make your own! Yes, you can do it! I’ve done it several times and actually prefer the creamy texture and smooth, soft yet rich taste to any store bought. I’d like to share a simple recipe courtesy of one…
Zuppa Inglese Mama’s Italian Cream Rum Dessert Cake
Zuppa Inglese is an Italian cream rum cake or dessert that requires no baking. It is wonderfully rich, easy and delicious! And the presentation, in a trifle bowl, is really quite lovely and impressive! My Mama prepared it for special occasions & I have adapted it for modern tastes. I am going against the grain…
Pizzella Cannoli
Aka Pizzelle Pizzella – Native to Abruzzo, is a waffle-like cookie that varies between crisp and crunchy or soft and chewy depending on ingredients. This recipe makes the crisp, light version. The name comes from the Italian word “pizze” for round and flat. Traditional flavorings include anise, vanilla, and lemon zest. A pizzelle iron is…
Once Upon a Spice 