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My #FreshFromFlorida Summer!

This post was sponsored by Fresh From Florida as part of Influencer Activation for Influence Central.

Summer brings an abundance of Fresh From Florida fruits, vegetables and delicious seafood for everyone to enjoy!
My #FreshFromFlorida Summer by LoveandConfections.com


I was born and raised in the Sunshine State and love celebrating Summer. When I was a kid, Summer meant no school, pool parties, celebrating my birthday, barbecues, and catching lightning bugs after dark. Family cookouts, lazy days by the pool, and watching the sun set are still some of my favorite Summer activities.

Summer in Florida also brings an abundance of seasonal ingredients, seafood and fresh produce. Farmers’ markets and u-pick fields and orchards are a great way to find local fresh Florida produce. I love strolling through the market, picking up the tastiest fruits and veggies. Tomatoes and watermelons are delicious and juicy and cold watermelon is amazing on a hot Summer day.

My #FreshFromFlorida Summer by LoveandConfections.com

When tomatoes are in season, we eat them every day. Green salads and pasta salads get dressed up with vibrant tomatoes, and we usually have tomato and mozzarella caprese too. I love to make Eggplant, Tomato and Mozzarella Stacks with fresh Florida tomatoes and spicy arugula.

My #FreshFromFlorida Summer by LoveandConfections.com

I eagerly await blueberry season, and it is one of the most delicious and fun times during the year. My family and I load up on buckets of plump and juicy, sun-kissed blueberries. We eat them as-is, use them in baked goods, and freeze a bunch, so we have them available until the next blueberry season. I always have blueberries handy to make parfaits, sangria, crepes, and so much more.

My #FreshFromFlorida Summer by LoveandConfections.com

I have been blueberry picking with #ToddlerLnC since she was a baby. We go every year, and this year was so much fun. She picked, showed me each one, then promptly ate them, disregarding the bucket and my instructions to fill it up with blueberries. She probably ate her weight in blueberries.

My #FreshFromFlorida Summer by LoveandConfections.com

Sweet corn is another Summer treat. Grilled corn, with butter and a dash of salt is my favorite way to eat it. Farmers’ markets carry delicious corn, but it is always fun to go out into the fields and see where it is grown. We have one local farm that grows sweet corn, and also has a giant corn maze in the Fall. It can take anywhere from 1-4 hours to complete this maze.

My #FreshFromFlorida Summer by LoveandConfections.com

Fresh From Florida and the Florida Department of Agriculture, which promotes locally grown Florida produce and fresh seafood and guarantees fresh and delicious food to inspire healthy and wholesome meals that the whole family will love.

My #FreshFromFlorida Summer by LoveandConfections.com

I love cooking and baking with seasonal and local ingredients. What are your favorite Fresh from Florida ingredients?

You can find delicious Fresh From Florida recipes on their website, as well as follow on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

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Oatmeal Walnut Waffles with Fried Apples #BrunchWeek

Oatmeal Waffles with crunchy walnut pieces and topped with fried apples is a delicious dish for breakfast or brunch any day of the week!

Oatmeal Walnut Waffles with Fried Apples by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek


Today is day 6 of #BrunchWeek – the final day to enter our huge BrunchWeek giveaway! I have had so much fun creating delicious recipes for you for this year’s BrunchWeek. Thank you to my co-hostess Christie from A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventure! I hope you had a chance to take a peek at my recipes this past week. I made a Green Tea Mojito, Lemon Meringue Angel Food Cake, Everything Bagel Rolls, Blueberry Salad with Green Onion Poppy Seed Dressing, The Perfect Cheddar Cheese Board with Balsamic Onion Jam, and today’s recipe Oatmeal Walnut Waffles with Fried Apples.

Oatmeal Walnut Waffles with Fried Apples by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

My mom suggested I make this recipe, because she fell in love with an oatmeal waffle recipe on a trip to New York. We made a few tweaks and added walnuts, and these are pretty darn good. I love the crunch from the walnuts, and the fried apples on top are such a treat.

Sage Fruit sent me some of their delicious Breeze apples, which is a new variety that originated in New Zealand. Sage Fruit is exclusively growing them in Washington State and introducing them to the US markets.

Oatmeal Walnut Waffles with Fried Apples by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

I also used my handy tools from KitchenIQ when making this recipe. The Better Zester is one of my favorite microplanes. It creates such a fine and delicate grate, and I used it to zest an orange for the apples. I also used my Nesting Measuring Spoons. I am always using multiple measuring spoons in recipes, or misplacing them, and I love that these stack perfectly and are narrow enough to fit into tiny spice jars. I could probably use a couple more sets, just to make sure I always have them ready for a recipe.

Don’t forget, today is the last day to enter the 

Oatmeal Walnut Waffles with Fried Apples by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

Oatmeal Walnut Waffles with Fried Apples
Waffles adapted from Allrecipes
Fried Apples a Love and Confections original recipe

Oatmeal Walnut Waffles with Fried Apples Ingredient:
Waffle Ingredients:
– 1 cup all purpose flour
– 1 cup oatmeal
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 2 tablespoons Dixie Crystals Extra Fine Granulated Sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 eggs
– 1 & 3/4 cups whole milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon Nielsen-Massey Vanilla Extract
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Apple Ingredients:
– 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup Dixie Crystals Light Brown Sugar
– 1/4 cup Dixie Crystals Extra Fine Granulated Sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon orange zest
– 1 tablespoon orange juice
– 1 teaspoon Nielsen-Massey Vanilla Extract
– 4 Breeze Apples, peeled, cored, and sliced

Oatmeal Walnut Waffles with Fried Apples Directions:
Waffle Directions:
1. In a food processor, pulse the oatmeal until it resembles a coarse flour.
2. Combine the flour, oatmeal flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt in a medium bowl. In a large measuring cup, whisk together the eggs, milk, oil, and extract. Whisk the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until combined. Add in walnuts and mix.
3. Prepare your waffle iron with cooking spray, if necessary, and bake according to manufacturer’s directions until golden brown. Keep in a warm oven until the apples are ready.

Apple Directions:
1. In a large skillet on medium heat, add butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar. Stir until the sugars start to melt. Add in the salt, cinnamon, zest, juice, and extract, and stir to combine.
2. Add in apples, stirring occasionally, and cook until they are tender, about 7-10 minutes. Spoon over waffles and enjoy!

Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

Oatmeal Walnut Waffles with Fried Apples by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

BrunchWeek Beverages:

BrunchWeek Breads, Grains and Pastries:

BrunchWeek Fruits, Vegetables and Sides:

BrunchWeek Main Dishes:

BrunchWeek Desserts:

Disclaimer: Thank you to #BrunchWeek Sponsors: Red Star Yeast, Dixie Crystals, Cabot Cheese, Vidalia Onion Committee, Sage Fruits, Nielsen-Massey, KitchenIQ, and Le Creuset for providing the prizes free of charge. These companies also provided the bloggers with samples and product to use for #BrunchWeek. All opinions are my own.

The Perfect Cheddar Cheese Board with Balsamic Onion Jam #BrunchWeek

Create an unforgettable appetizer or snack with my instructions on how to make the perfect cheddar cheese board. Plus, I created an amazing Balsamic Onion Jam that pairs nicely with the cheeses.

The Perfect Cheddar Cheese Board with Balsamic Onion Jam by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek


Welcome to day 5 of #BrunchWeek! The week is almost over, so I had to share one of my favorite appetizers – a cheese board. Cheese boards can be glamorous, elegant, and over the top, or simply styled and satisfyingly delicious. There is such a variety of ingredients that there is something for everyone. An assortment of cheeses, meats, spreads, crackers, fruits, nuts, and much more come together to form a delicious appetizer or snack.

The Perfect Cheddar Cheese Board with Balsamic Onion Jam by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

Cheese: I had so much fun making this cheese board! Cabot Cheese sent me so many different and delicious cheddar varieties that I had a hard time deciding what I wanted to use. I chose Seriously Sharp Cheddar, Tomato Basil Cheddar, and Chipotle Cheddar – a little something for everyone – and they all were different colors for variety. Three cheeses is a good starting point, since you want to leave room for all the other goodies.
Crackers: Next, I wanted different textures for the crackers so I chose a traditional water cracker, a wafer cracker, and thinly sliced crusty bread. You can toast your bread to give it a nice char. Grissini breadsticks are also a fun addition to boards.
The Perfect Cheddar Cheese Board with Balsamic Onion Jam by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

Spreads: Spreads are always fun for a cheese board, and when presented in jars or bowls, it gives height and color to your board. A mix of sweet and savory is good, so it appeals to different guests. Jam, compote, and marmalade are good options, and readily available at stores. Balsamic Onion Jam is absolutely delicious, easy to make, and perfect for a savory addition to some crusty bread. I use a mandolin to evenly and quickly slice the onions, and the KitchenIQ Better Zester to grate the garlic right into the pan.

The Perfect Cheddar Cheese Board with Balsamic Onion Jam by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

Honeycomb is a must for me when it comes to cheese boards. Once you have honey with cheese, you never go back. It is delicious, and pairs beautifully with many different kinds of cheeses.

Fruit and Nuts: I made a sweet nut recipe and a savory nut recipe, because I like variety. Spiced pecans are a family favorite and made constantly during the holidays. Thyme fried almonds are a twist on my favorite wine bar snack of salted marcona almonds. Salty, crunchy and herbaceous is a great blend of flavors for any cheese board.

The Perfect Cheddar Cheese Board with Balsamic Onion Jam by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

Don’t forget to enter the #BrunchWeek Giveaway!



Balsamic Onion Jam
A Love and Confections original recipe

Balsamic Onion Jam Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons Butter
– 3 tablespoons Dixie Crystals Dark Brown Sugar
– 1 tablespoon Dixie Crystals Extra Fine Granulated Sugar
– 2 Garlic cloves, grated
– 4 large Vidalia Onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar
– Salt and Pepper, to taste


Balsamic Onion Jam Directions:
1. In a large skillet with a tight fitting lid, melt the butter on medium heat. Once melted add in the Brown and Granulated Sugars. Add garlic into the skillet and stir to combine
2. Add onions, stirring to coat in sugar mixture. Place lid on and cook for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Remove lid and cook for 10 minutes. After, add Vinegar, Salt and Pepper, and stir to combine. Cook an additional 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions the liquid is dissolved and the onions are a dark brown. Enjoy!

Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!


The Perfect Cheddar Cheese Board with Balsamic Onion Jam by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

BrunchWeek Beverages:

BrunchWeek Breads, Grains and Pastries:

BrunchWeek Fruits, Vegetables and Sides:

BrunchWeek Egg Dishes:

BrunchWeek Main Dishes:

BrunchWeek Desserts:

Disclaimer: Thank you to #BrunchWeekSponsors: Red Star Yeast, Dixie Crystals, Cabot Cheese, Vidalia Onion Committee, Sage Fruits, Nielsen-Massey, KitchenIQ, and Le Creuset for providing the prizes free of charge. These companies also provided the bloggers with samples and product to use for #BrunchWeek. All opinions are my own.

Sparkling Raspberry Mojito

Sparkling Raspberry Mojitos adds glitz and glam to your brunch with this refreshing cocktail. Substitute Prosecco instead of the traditional club soda to make it extra special.

Sparkling Raspberry Mojito by LoveandConfections.com


It’s Mother’s Day weekend, and I am celebrating in a big way. This is the first time my Mom and I are living in the same city in 12 years. I think we have spent a few Mother’s Days together in that time, but I honestly can’t remember, since it isn’t one of the major holidays. This year is special because not only do I get to spend it with my Mom, but #ToddlerLnC gets to spend it with her grandma!

Sparkling Raspberry Mojito by LoveandConfections.com

We have loved having my mom near us the past few months. Especially now that I am a mom, I am appreciative of everything that she has done for me. I am grateful that she is guiding me and helping me raise my little girl, and I can only hope to be as good of a mother to #ToddlerLnC as she has been to me.

Sparkling Raspberry Mojito by LoveandConfections.com

If you are hosting a brunch or luncheon, this is the perfect cocktail to treat any special lady in your life. For all those moms-to-be, you could easily  make this into a mocktail with club soda and raspberry puree. If you’re going out to eat, I recommend having one of these ready for mom when you get home. Hope you enjoy!

Sparkling Raspberry Mojito by LoveandConfections.com

Visit Dixie Crystals to get the FULL RECIPE:

Sparkling Raspberry Mojito by LoveandConfections.com

I have an ongoing relationship with Dixie Crystals as a recipe developer and brand ambassador. I receive product, coupons and/or compensation for posts featuring their products. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Love and Confections possible. As always, all opinions are my own.

Blueberry Salad with Green Onion-Poppy Seed Dressing #BrunchWeek #FWCon #BlueberryToss

Blueberry Salad with Green Onion-Poppy Seed Dressing is a family favorite. The salad has bright, bold flavors and colors, and the tangy dressing pairs perfectly with the sweet blueberries and oranges.

Blueberry Salad with Green Onion-Poppy Seed Dressing by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek #FWCon #BlueberryToss


Welcome to day 4 of #BrunchWeek. My aunt introduced me to this salad. It is usually present at family gatherings, including brunch, and I love its versatility. You can definitely customize it with different fruits, vegetables and nuts, depending on the season. Blueberry season just started here in Florida, and we have already been out in the field picking blueberries. Well, I did the picking, #ToddlerLnC showed me every blueberry she picked, faked me out thinking she would put it in our bucket, then popped it into her mouth. Every. Time… toddlers…

Blueberry Salad with Green Onion-Poppy Seed Dressing by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek #FWCon #BlueberryToss

What I love most about this salad is that I am able to enter it into the #Blueberry Toss contest for the Food Wine Conference. The conference is less than 2 weeks away and I can hardly wait. One of the conference sponsors is Wish Farms – a Florida Strawberry and Blueberry grower. They tasked us to create an original recipe that includes at least 1 serving of blueberries.

Blueberry Salad with Green Onion-Poppy Seed Dressing by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek #FWCon #BlueberryToss

I know that this recipe is a favorite in my family, and with some tweaks of my own, this is the perfect salad for any family event – especially brunch. I hope you enjoy it as much as we do. If you are interested in joining me at the Food Wine Conference, there are still tickets available! It is a wonderful experience, with amazing food, delicious wine, fabulous speakers (did you hear our keynote speaker is Donatella Arpaia?!?!) and great sessions planned.


Don’t forget to enter the #BrunchWeek Giveaway 
for $800+ in prizes!

Blueberry Salad with Green Onion-Poppy Seed Dressing by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek #FWCon #BlueberryToss

Blueberry Salad with Green Onion-Poppy Seed Dressing
A Love and Confections original recipe
serves 4-6
Blueberry Salad with Green Onion-Poppy Seed Dressing Ingredients:
Dressing Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cider vinegar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 bunch green onions (scallions), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 4 teaspoons poppy seeds
Salad Ingredients:
– 1 head romaine lettuce
– 8 ounces baby spinach
– 1 & 1/2 cups blueberries
– 1 15-ounce can mandarin oranges, drained
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds or toasted sunflower seeds

Blueberry Salad with Green Onion-Poppy Seed Dressing Directions:
Dressing Directions:
1. Place vinegar, sugar, mustard salt and green onions in a high powered blender, and blend until fully combined. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while the blender is on. Add the poppy seeds and give it a quick blend again. Can be made ahead and chilled.
Salad Directions:
1. Toss romaine and spinach in your serving bowl. Top with blueberries, oranges, and nuts. Serve dressing alongside. Enjoy!
Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

BrunchWeek Beverages:

BrunchWeek Breads, Grains and Pastries:

BrunchWeek Fruits, Vegetables and Sides:

BrunchWeek Egg Dishes:

BrunchWeek Main Dishes:

BrunchWeek Desserts:

Disclaimer: Thank you to #BrunchWeek Sponsors: Red Star Yeast, Dixie Crystals, Cabot Cheese, Vidalia Onion Committee, Sage Fruits, Nielsen-Massey, KitchenIQ, and Le Creuset for providing the prizes free of charge. These companies also provided the bloggers with samples and product to use for #BrunchWeek. All opinions are my own.

Everything Bagel Rolls #BrunchWeek

Everything Bagel Rolls are a perfect brunch accompaniment. The everything bagel spice mix is delicious on the soft homemade rolls. Serve warm with whipped cream cheese for a spin on the classic.


Welcome to day 3 of #BrunchWeek! I am co-hosting this year’s #BrunchWeek with A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures, and the brunch recipes keep getting better by the day! When I brunch, there is usually a carb involved – I’m a total “carbivore”. Sometimes it’s in the form of pancakes, waffles, toast, etc. While I do love bagels, they sometimes are too heavy when accompanied by a variety of food for brunch. These Everything Bagel Rolls are my answer to wanting the delicious everything bagel taste, but in a soft, pillowy roll.

Everything Bagel Rolls by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

I have a mason jar with my everything spice mix and I plan on baking a few different kinds of bread so I can use it all. Speaking of bread, I love Red Star Yeast. It is my favorite yeast to use – I have used it in culinary school, in my home kitchen, and in the bakery. It is high quality and consistent, making bread-baking a whole lot easier. RedStarYeast.com has so many delicious recipes and I want to bake every one!

Everything Bagel Rolls by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

When these rolls were baking, the whole house smelled delicious. I had to have one while it was warm, and smeared on some whipped cream cheese. It would also be great with butter and your favorite jam! These rolls are sure to be a hit at your next brunch!

Don’t forget to enter the #BrunchWeek Giveaway for $800+ in prizes!

Everything Bagel Rolls by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

Everything Bagel Rolls
Rolls adapted from Stephie Cooks
Everything Bagel Spice Mix a Love and Confection original recipe

Everything Bagel Rolls Ingredients:
Yeast Roll Ingredients:
– 1 cup shortening
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup Dixie Crystals Extra Fine Granulated Sugar
– 1 cup boiling water
– 2 packages (4& 1/2 teaspoons) Red Star Platinum Yeast
– 1 cup warm water (110F-115F)
– 2 eggs, lightly beaten
– 6 cups all purpose flour, sifted
– 1 egg + 1 tablespoon water, beaten for egg wash

Everything Bagel Spice Mix Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon minced onion
– 1 tablespoon minced garlic
– 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
– 2 teaspoons course salt
– 1 & 1/2 tablespoon poppy seeds

Everything Bagel Rolls Directions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, dissolve shortening, salt and sugar, then let cool to 110F-120F.
2. In medium measuring cup, dissolve yeast into warm water. Add it to the shortening mixture. Whisk in eggs.
3. With a spatula, stir in the flour until combined. Cover bowl with lightly greased plastic wrap and refrigerate for 6-8 hours.
4. To bake, gently turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface and divide into 16 equal pieces. Tuck the edges of each piece under until the top of the dough is taut, like a bubble, place the dough onto your surface and gently roll the dough clockwise to tighten each roll.
5. Grease 2-3 9-inch cake pans and arrange the dough balls in them. Cover with a tea towel and let it rise for 1 hour. Near the end of the rise, heat the oven to 425F.
6. In a bowl or jar, combine all the ingredients for the spice mix. Lightly brush the tops of the rolls with the egg wash and sprinkle the everything bagel spice mix on.
7. Bake the rolls for 20-25 minutes, until golden brown on top, and cooked inside. If necessary, place a piece of foil over each pan, halfway through baking, to prevent topping from burning. Enjoy

Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

Everything Bagel Rolls by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

BrunchWeek Beverages:

BrunchWeek Breads, Grains and Pastries:

BrunchWeek Fruits, Vegetables and Sides:

BrunchWeek Egg Dishes:

BrunchWeek Main Dishes:

BrunchWeek Desserts:

Everything Bagel Rolls by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

Disclaimer: Thank you to #BrunchWeek Sponsors: Red Star Yeast, Dixie Crystals, Cabot Cheese, Vidalia Onion Committee, Sage Fruits, Nielsen-Massey, KitchenIQ, and Le Creuset for providing the prizes free of charge. These companies also provided the bloggers with samples and product to use for #BrunchWeek. All opinions are my own.

Lemon Meringue Angel Food Cake #BrunchWeek

Light and lemony angel food cake with fresh lemon curd and lemon-scented meringue is the perfect addition to any brunch or Mother’s Day menu!

Lemon Meringue Angel Food Cake from LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek


Welcome to day 2 of #BrunchWeek! My family has a love of lemon desserts. My mom’s favorite is lemon meringue pie. Instead of creating a pie, I opted to make an angel food cake, which was one of my grandmother’s favorite desserts – creating a delicious combination of the two.

Lemon Meringue Angel Food Cake from LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

My mom and grandmother have been an inspiration to me throughout my whole life. I learned to love cooking from being in the kitchen with them. We baked bread, made cookies, and cooked meals together. I am fortunate to be able to cook with my mom on a near daily basis. I miss my grandmother terribly, but she is still with us in spirit – especially since #ToddlerLnC is named after her.

Lemon Meringue Angel Food Cake from LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

Angel food cake is very easy to make, even though lots of people think otherwise. The hardest part is sifting the ingredients – and that isn’t hard at all. Homemade lemon curd makes all the difference – fresh, sweet, and slightly tart, I use this curd in parfaits, crepes, or just eat it with a spoon.

Lemon Meringue Angel Food Cake from LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

My friends over at Nielsen-Massey Vanillas gifted me with a bottle of their Pure Lemon Extract and Pure Orange Extract. I used the lemon extract in both the cake and meringue. The hint of lemon in fluffy, toasted meringue is subtle and luxurious.

Lemon Meringue Angel Food Cake from LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

Do you have a favorite dessert that reminds you of someone you love? I hope you give this delicious cake a try!


Don’t forget to enter the #BrunchWeek giveaway!

Lemon Meringue Angel Food Cake
Cake adapted from Allrecipes
Lemon Curd and Meringue a Love and Confections original recipe

Lemon Meringue Angel Food Cake Ingredients:
For the Lemon Curd :
– 100 grams Lemon Juice
– 60 grams Unsalted Butter, room temperature
– 60 grams Dixie Crystals Granulated Sugar (first measurement)
– 60 grams Dixie Crystals Granulated Sugar (second measurement)
– 12 grams Corn Starch
– 150 grams large Eggs, roughly 3

Angel Food Cake Ingredients:
– 1 & 1/4 cups Cake Flour
– 1 & 3/4 cups Dixie Crystals Extra Fine Granulated Sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon Salt
– 1 & 1/2 cups Egg Whites, liquid measure roughly 10-11 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon Cream of Tartar
– 1/2 teaspoon Almond Extract
– 1/2 teaspoon Nielsen-Massey Pure Lemon Extract

Lemon Meringue Ingredients:
– 4 large egg whites
– 1 cup Dixie Crystals Extra Fine Granulated Sugar
– 1/8 teaspoon Cream of Tartar
– 1/4 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
– 1/4 teaspoon Nielsen-Massey Pure Lemon Extract


Lemon Meringue Angel Food Cake Directions:
Lemon Curd Directions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the Lemon Juice, Unsalted Butter and first measurement of Sugar. Whisk to combine and cook on medium to medium-high until sugar has dissolved and mixture is just simmering.
2. Right before the liquids boil, whisk together the second measurement of Sugar, Corn Starch and Eggs in a bowl big enough to hold the liquid and egg mixtures.
3. Temper the eggs: slowly pour the hot liquid, in a small stream, into the bowl while constantly whisking the eggs. Pour the mixture back into the pan and heat on the stove until it is thick and almost boiling.
4. With a sieve, strain the curd into a clean bowl to insure no overcooked eggs get into the curd. Place plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the curd and let it cool for 30 minutes on the counter, then refrigerate it until it is thoroughly chilled. Can be made a day before use. Can be stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Makes 2-3 cups.


Angel Food Cake Directions:
1. Sift together Cake Flour, Sugar and Salt. Repeat 5 times.
2. In the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the whip attachment, beat the Egg Whites until foamy. Add the Cream of Tartar, Almond Extract and Lemon Extract and whip until medium peaks. Gently fold in the dry ingredients, making sure it is all combined without deflating the whites
3. Pour batter into an ungreased 10-inch tube pan and place in a cold oven. Heat oven to 325F and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until golden brown and skewer comes out clean when inserted into the center of the cake.
4. Invert cake, while in pan, and allow it to cool completely upside down. Once cool, remove from pan.


Lemon Meringue Directions:
1. Create a double boiler by placing a saucepan with water on the stove, making sure the bottom of your stand mixer bowl does not touch the surface of the water.
2. Place egg whites and sugar into the bowl of your stand mixer and whisk almost constantly while on the double boiler, until the eggs are warm and the sugar has completely dissolved.
3. Place the bowl on the mixer and whip until foamy. Add in the Cream of Tartar, Vanilla Extract and Lemon Extract. Whip on high until stiff peaks form.

Assembly:
1. With large serrated knife, cut cake in half horizontally. Spread an even amount of lemon curd on the cut surface, then place the top layer back on.
2. With an offset spatula, spread the meringue over the cake, covering it completely. With a kitchen torch, carefully toast the meringue. Serve immediately or refrigerate up to one day. Enjoy!


Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

Lemon Meringue Angel Food Cake from LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

BrunchWeek Beverages:

BrunchWeek Breads, Grains and Pastries:

BrunchWeek Fruits, Vegetables and Sides:

BrunchWeek Egg Dishes:

BrunchWeek Main Dishes:

BrunchWeek Desserts:

Lemon Meringue Angel Food Cake from LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

Disclaimer: Thank you to #BrunchWeek Sponsors: Red Star Yeast, Dixie Crystals, Cabot Cheese, Vidalia Onion Committee, Sage Fruits, Nielsen-Massey, KitchenIQ, and Le Creuset for providing the prizes free of charge. These companies also provided the bloggers with samples and product to use for #BrunchWeek. All opinions are my own. The #BrunchWeek giveaway is open to U.S. residents, age 18 & up only. All entries for the winner will be checked and verified. By entering you give the right to use your name and likeness. The number of entries received determines the odds of winning. Eight winners will be selected. The prize packages will be sent directly from the giveaway sponsors. The #BrunchWeek Bloggers are not responsible for the fulfillment or delivery of the prize packages. Bloggers hosting this giveaway and their immediate family members in their household cannot enter or win the giveaway. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited by law.

Green Tea Mojitos #BrunchWeek

Green Tea Mojitos are a refreshing twist on the classic sweet tea and traditional mojito. Mint, simple syrup, and lime juice blend perfectly with the green tea for a fabulous cocktail, or mocktail

Green Tea Mojitos by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

Welcome to day 1 of #BrunchWeek! My co-hostess, A Kitchen Hoor, and I are so excited for all the Brunch recipes this week. We have a great group of bloggers, amazing sponsors, and fabulous prize packages! all 37 bloggers are sharing delicious recipes today, and you can see them all at the end of the post. Apparently it has become tradition for me to start of #BrunchWeek with a cocktail, so I created these Green Tea Mojitos for the occasion.

Green Tea Mojitos by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

I love mojitos, and it’s always fun to put a twist on the classic and glam it up a bit. I was inspired to create this recipe from a little Cuban food truck at my local farmer’s market. They serve the best Cuban Sandwiches and Tea Mojitos. I searched and searched for a recipe so I could re-create it at home, but had no luck; so I created my own.

Green Tea Mojitos by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

This mojito is very easy to make and perfect for a warm day. During the Spring and Summer, I have a small herb garden on my patio, and using fresh mint is the key. There is so much flavor and brightness that fresh mint adds to any dish or drink. This would be the perfect drink for a beverage dispenser at a party, just keep the rum on the side as an option, in case there are kids or party-goers who don’t want it.
Visit Dixie Crystals for the FULL RECIPE: 
Green Tea Mojitos

Don’t forget to enter the #BrunchWeek giveaway:
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Green Tea Mojitos by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek
BrunchWeek Beverages:
BrunchWeek Breads, Grains and Pastries:
BrunchWeek Fruits, Vegetables and Sides:
BrunchWeek Egg Dishes:
BrunchWeek Main Dishes:
BrunchWeek Desserts:
Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!
Green Tea Mojitos by LoveandConfections.com #BrunchWeek

Disclaimer: This recipe is intended for individuals ages 21 & up. Please drink responsibly. Thank you to #BrunchWeek Sponsors: Red Star Yeast, Dixie Crystals, Cabot Cheese, Vidalia Onion Committee, Sage Fruits, Nielsen-Massey, KitchenIQ, and Le Creuset for providing the prizes free of charge. These companies also provided the bloggers with samples and product to use for #BrunchWeek. All opinions are my own. The #BrunchWeek giveaway is open to U.S. residents, age 18 & up only. All entries for the winner will be checked and verified. By entering you give the right to use your name and likeness. The number of entries received determines the odds of winning. Eight winners will be selected. The prize packages will be sent directly from the giveaway sponsors. The #BrunchWeek Bloggers are not responsible for the fulfillment or delivery of the prize packages. Bloggers hosting this giveaway and their immediate family members in their household cannot enter or win the giveaway. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited by law.

I have an ongoing relationship with Dixie Crystals as a recipe developer and brand ambassador. I receive product, coupons and/or compensation for posts featuring their products. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Love and Confections possible. As always, all opinions are my own.

#BrunchWeek 2016

#BrunchWeek is here and we are celebrating in a big way – join me all week as I create delicious Brunch recipes and share an incredible giveaway!


Welcome to the fourth annual #BrunchWeek hosted by Terri from Love and Confections and Christie from A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures. We are so excited to have you join us this year as we celebrate Brunch and prepare for Mother’s Day. 37 Bloggers from around the country will showcase their best brunch dishes, from cocktails to cakes, breakfast breads, tarts, and quiche – there is something for everyone! Our amazing Sponsors have donated some great prizes for the #BrunchWeek giveaway. Thank you so much, Sponsors, for your generosity. We have an incredible giveaway below and we’d love if you would take a moment to read about it and what you can win!

Prize #1 Red Star Yeast is giving one winner an amazing baking set, which includes a mixing bowl, dough whisk, bamboo spatula, rubber spatula, instant-read thermometer, measuring cup, pizza cutter, tea towel, oven mitt, bench scraper, ‘Knead to be Loaved’ apron, 6 strips of Red Star Yeast, National Festival of Breads cookbook, and The New Artisan Bread in Five Minutes a Day hardcover cookbook

For more than a century, home bakers have trusted the high quality and consist performance of RED STAR Yeast. Inspiring bakers from novice to professional, our goal is your baking success! Visit redstaryeast.com for hundreds of tried & true recipes, baking tips and how-to videos. Better yeast. Better bread. Every time.

Prize #2 Dixie Crystals is giving one winner 1 case of 2-lb Extra Fine Granulated Sugar, a silicone baking mat, Dixie Crystal’s My First Cookbook, and Dixie Crystals red ruffle apron.

About Dixie Crystals: Since 1917, Dixie Crystals® has been the South’s choice for high-quality sugar and sweeteners. Our pure cane sugar products are all natural, non-GMO and provide consistently delicious results.

Prize #3 Cabot Cheese is giving one winner $50 assortment of Cabot Cheese, one Berghoff Cheese Knife and one Slate Cheese Board

Cabot Creamery Cooperative is a 1,200 farm family dairy cooperative with members in New England & upstate New York making all natural, award-winning cheeses & the “World’s Best Cheddar.”


Prize #4 Vidalia Onion Committee is giving one winner a Martha Stewart Knife Set, cast iron fry pan, cutting board, and fresh Vidalia Onions

About Vidalia Onions: Vidalia onions are unique to a very small region. In fact, they only grow within 20 counties in Georgia (which is also why they are the official state vegetable of Georgia)! Vidalia onions were discovered back in 1930’s, and just like back then, they are still planted, transplanted and harvested entirely all by hand! Vidalia onions are grown during the winter months, and are only available in stores between April and September, making them a true seasonal specialty. In order to grow great tasting Vidalias, and to give them their characteristic sweetness, they must be grown in a sandy soil mixture that is low in sulfur (sulfur in soil is what gives onions their hotness). Because of this sweet flavor, Vidalia onions are incredibly versatile and can be used in any sort of dish; grilling, baking, appetizers, sandwiches, casseroles, and yes, even sweet desserts. Each year, approximately 5-million 40-pound boxes are shipped out around the entire country – now that’s a lot of onions!

Prize #5 Sage Fruits is giving one winner a Ninja® Mega Kitchen System® with Slicing/Shredding

Sage Fruit Company is a premier grower/shipper of apples, pears and cherries. Not only are they focused on healthy products, but also on helping kids get excited about healthy eating through their free Kids in Force program that helps kids eat more nutrition and get more physical activity.

Prize #6 Nielsen-Massey Fine Vanillas & Flavors is giving one winner a set of their pure flavors: 2-oz each of Orange, Lemon, Peppermint, Almond, Chocolate, Coffee, Rose Water, and Orange Blossom Water.

Nielsen-Massey Vanillas has been crafting the world’s finest vanillas and flavors since 1907. Each of Nielsen-Massey’s all-nature pure flavors are crafted with premium ingredients, sourced from around the world and chosen to meet the utmost quality standards. From lemon to peppermint to coffee or chocolate, Nielsen-Massey’s pure flavors offer convenience, quality and consistency to ensure your favorite recipes taste delicious every single time. All products are gluten-free, allergen-free, GMO-free, all-natural and Kosher.

Prize #7 KitchenIQ is giving one winner a Lid & Mitt, Edge Grip Quick Prep Knife Sharpener & Pairing Knife Combo, IQ Smart Wireless Nutri Scale, Edge Bug Scissor Sharpener, and Prep & Measure Tool

KitchenIQ, the new houseware branch of Smith’s Consumer Products, Inc., embraces Smith’s long-standing reputation for innovation and quality. KitchenIQ is committed to producing smarter products for the kitchen.

Prize #8 Le Creuset is giving one winner one Egg Carton in Caribbean, a Heritage 4 Qt Rectangular Baking Dish in Caribbean and a Revolution Spatula Spoon in Caribbean.

Le Creuset is focused on inspiring and empowering people everywhere to make joy through cooking. From our original enameled cast iron cookware to stoneware, stainless, silicone and more, Le Creuset has grown to offer products across a range of materials and categories that guarantees the right tool for the right job.


HERE’S HOW TO ENTER: