Chocolate Croissants

Some of you may have noticed there is a trend happening here on the blog. I would like to say it was intentional, but that wouldn't exactly be truthful. If you have seen a shift toward easy (or easier) to make recipes, you have keen powers of perception and observation! What prompted me to share less complicated recipes for beautiful, delicious food will be one of those unsolved mysteries. Who knows how long this trend will last, so it's duration is definitely one worth celebrating. More importantly, these simple or simpler recipes are the ones you want to put in your 'keepers' file. Especially these flaky, decadent, semi-homemade Chocolate Croissants! 

Yes, these three ingredient French classic inspired Chocolate Croissants are made with only three ingredients! And you probably know what I am going to say next, because redundancy is my middle name. The quality of ingredients matter. But more on that in just a bit.

For those you have ever eaten a croissant or two or three in France, Switzerland, London or anywhere else in Europe, your bar for mouthwatering Chocolate Croissants is set pretty high. Which means the challenge for me in sharing a recipe promising to evoke all of your fondest memories is a bit daunting. But it's a challenge I am willing to accept. 

What makes the croissants in Europe, particularly in France, taste so good is the high in fat content butter used in making the puff pastry. The biggest difference between an 'authentic' Chocolate Croissant and this one has everything to do with the puff pastry. This recipe uses a high quality pre-made puff pastry rather than one made from scratch. There are several pre-made puff pastry options available at the grocery store, but the one I would strongly recommend using for these croissants is made by Dufour. Hands down it is a winner. Slightly more expensive than other commercially made puff pastry, but worth every penny. Swap out a different puff pastry (other than homemade) when making these Chocolate Croissants and you will have drastically changed the recipe. 

Semi-sweet or bittersweet chocolate is both melted and semi-finely chopped. I melted and chopped up Guittard's Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (46% cocao) and was thrilled with the results. However, if there was one swap in the ingredients you could make in this recipe, it would be using a good quality chocolate with a higher percentage of cocao. You might even want to use Nutella if you love the flavor of hazelnut. 

The third ingredient is one large egg or one large egg yolk. There are many recipes for egg washes. Some using the egg only, some adding a little water to the egg, and others adding a little milk or cream to the egg. This recipe uses the egg only. I brushed them with a whole egg, but for a more golden finish, you could brush them with just one egg yolk.

To make these Chocolate Croissants you have to first thaw the frozen puff pastry (Dufour only comes frozen). On a lightly floured surface it's rolled out to about an 1/8" thickness. After cutting the sheet in half, the melted chocolate is thinly spread out on one half of the puff pastry using an offset spatula. The semi-finely chopped chocolate gets sprinkled on the melted chocolate before the plain half is laid on top and pressed down lightly. Note: If you were making a double batch of these Chocolate Croissants, you would buy two packages of the Dufour puff pastry, roll both out, and lay one on top of the other. The amount of chocolate needed should then be doubled.

Using a very sharp knife or very sharp pizza cutter, you will cut out 8 triangles. At the widest point, the triangle will range between 1 1/2" - 2".  Staring at the widest end of the triangle, the croissants get tightly rolled up and placed on a parchment paper lined baking sheet.

Brush off any excess flour on the rolled croissants before generously brushing on the egg wash. To help ensure the tip of the croissant doesn't lift during the baking process, brush some of the egg wash under it so it adheres better to the pastry. Note: If you roll out the puff pastry between two sheets of parchment paper, you won't have to worry about any flour adhering to the puff pastry.

In a 425 degree (F) preheated oven, the Chocolate Croissants bake for anywhere between 22-26 minutes. The croissants are done when they have puffed up and are deep golden in color. If under baked, the croissants will be more doughy than crispy. Note: To find the right amount of baking time for your oven, you can bake up one in the oven. Store the others (unbrushed with egg wash in refrigerator) while the first one bakes. Or you just can bake all of them for the recommended time range.

A fresh out of the oven, golden, flaky, buttery, chocolatey croissant eaten any time of the day is one of those just pinch me moment indulgences. If you want to spoil your family and friends or if you want to relive that memorable trip across the pond, make them these Chocolate Croissants. 

These Chocolate Croissants are a tad on the decadent side and maybe a bit over the top, but they are destined to make anyone you bake them for feel loved. And serving beautifully delicious, especially easy to make food doesn't get any better than that.

Recipe

Chocolate Croissants

Makes 8

Ingredients

14 ounce (396g) package of puff pastry (recommend Dufour), thawed

4 ounces (112g) semi-sweet or dark chocolate, melted

1 ounce (28g) semi-sweet or dark chocolate, semi-finely chopped

1 large egg or 1 large egg yolk (using only an egg yolk will give you the deepest finished color on the baked croissants)

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees (F). Line a heavy bottomed rimmed baking pan with parchment paper. Set aside.

2. On a lightly flowered surface, roll out the puff pastry to about a 1/8" inch thickness. OR roll out between two sheets of parchment paper.

3. Cut the puff pastry in half. 

4. Spread the melted chocolate thinly over one half of the puff pastry. If using the chopped chocolate, evenly sprinkle over the melted chocolate.

5. Place the other half of the puff pastry on top. Use a very sharp knife or pizza cutter to make 8 triangles (bottom of each triangle should be 1 1/2" - 2").

6. Generously brush the egg wash or egg yolk over each croissant.

7. Bake for 22-26 minutes or until they are puffed and a deep golden color.

8. Remove from the oven. Let cool slightly. These Chocolate Croissants are heavenly when enjoyed warm, but they are also very delicious when they come to room temperature. 

Notes: (1) Store the baked croissants at room temperature, uncovered if there is low humidity in your house. Covered if the humidity is high. (2) Pepperidge Farm also sells pre-made puff pastry. It is generally found in the refrigerated section of the grocery aisle. If you can't find Dufour puff pastry or are not making your own, you can use this one. The results may be slightly different. (3) Instead of melted chocolate, you can also use Nutella. You will need a little more than a half cup for this recipe.

Blueberry Buttermilk Waffles

I may be one of a handful of people who have never been to the Waffle House. While we have passed a countless number of them when on long road trips, not even hunger pangs had ever compelled us to exit the highway to stop at one. Those who know me have said more than likely I might be disappointed. So rather than prove them wrong, I have heeded their cautionary advice and continued to enjoy my fair share of fluffy, delicious, rich Belgian style buttermilk waffles at home. Which also has had the added benefit of giving me all the more reason to justify my impulse purchase of an All-Clad waffle maker way back when. Fortunately, instead of it being one of those nice to have kitchen appliances, the kind that take up space and gather dust, it's status has been elevated to a must-have one around here. 

Next to Liege Waffles and Cinnamon Roll Waffles, these Blueberry Buttermilk Waffles are yet another good reason why everyone should own a waffle maker. And, if you happen to be one of those who love to eat breakfast for dinner and/or love to invite friends over for breakfast or brunch, you might someday wonder how you had ever lived without one. But this isn't a sales pitch for buying a waffle maker, but it could very well be. It's a blog post with the intention of making your mouth water for a plate of these Blueberry Buttermilk Waffles.

A breakfast of buttery, crispy, fluffy, buttermilk waffles makes for a great start to the day, to the weekend! Just imagine everyone's eye-widening reaction when you set out a platter of warm, homemade waffles! Who doesn't love to make and serve a breakfast everyone swoons over? 

When you look at the ingredients for these waffles you might be wondering if they aren't the same as the ones used to make pancakes. While there are similarities between waffle and pancake ingredients, there are some significant differences between the two. In general, waffle batter contains more sugar, butter and eggs than pancake batter. The result is a richer batter with a higher fat content. There are textural differences between waffles and pancakes as well. Waffles tend to have fluffy interiors and crispy exteriors, due in large part to the sugar and extra fat in the batter. Pancakes then to have a softer, more cake-like texture. Although some pancake batters are made with leavening agents (baking powder and/or baking soda), they are more the exception than the rule. Waffles on the other hand always contain leavening agents in order to contribute to creating their fully interiors. Last, but not least, the difference in ingredient amounts between waffles and pancakes results in differences in batter consistency. Waffle batter is generally thicker than pancake batter.

Like most batters, the wet and dry ingredients are first whisked together separately. But when the wet ingredients are added to the dry ingredients, the best tool for gently blending the batter is a spatula. The batter should be lumpy. So when adding in the fresh blueberries, don't over mix and eliminate all of those lumps. Allow the batter to rest at room temperature for at least 10-15 minutes before you begin making them.

Most waffle makers have non-stick surfaces, lightly oiling them before making your first batch of waffles helps them release easier. Instead of using an aerosol spray, lightly brush on some vegetable oil. There are additives in aerosol sprays you don't want to put on a hot waffle maker as they can cause non-stick surfaces to become sticky and hard to clean over time. So to be safe and to extend the life of your waffle maker, don't use aerosol sprays. 

Cooking time for these thick, golden Blueberry Buttermilk Waffles ranges from 3 to 5 minutes. Cooking time will depend on the heat setting you select as well as the depth of the well of the waffle maker. Most waffle makers will beep when the waffles are done (so look for that feature if you are buying one for the first time).

For the most epic Blueberry Buttermilk Waffle eating experience, serve them with an assortment of toppings. Lightly sweetened whipped cream, butter (room temperature), maple syrup, jams, preserves, confectionary sugar, and/or berries are some of my favorites. 

Not a fan of fresh blueberries? No problem. Leave them out. Because with or without the blueberries, these fluffy, crispy, golden, caramelized finished waffles are throw down worthy delicious. With waffles like these, breakfast, brunch, lunch or even dinner might best be enjoyed in the comfort of your own home. Who knows, your friends might start calling your house the BEST 'Waffle House' ever!

Recipe

Blueberry Buttermilk Waffles

Serves 4-6

Makes 8-10 five inch sized waffles

Ingredients

2 cups (260g) all-purpose flour

1/4 cup + 1 Tablespoon (62g) granulated sugar

2 teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt

1/3 cup (75g) unsalted butter, melted, and slightly cooled

2 large eggs

2 cups buttermilk

1 Tablespoon good quality vanilla

2 cups (300g) fresh blueberries

Serving options: butter, lightly sweetened whipped cream, maple syrup, fresh berries, jam/perserves, and/or sifted confectionary sugar

Directions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and Kosher salt. Set aside.

2. In a medium sized bowl, lightly whisk the eggs. Then add in the vanilla, buttermilk and melted butter. Whisk until blended.

3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to blend. Do not over mix. There will be some lumps. 

4. Gently fold in the fresh blueberries. Let the batter rest 10-15 minutes.

5. Heat your waffle maker. Set your heat setting to at least 4. Lightly brush the waffle maker with vegetable oil.

6. Pour 1/3 to 1/2 cup of the batter into your waffle maker. Most waffle makers will beep when the waffles are done. If not, check for doneness after three minutes. 

7. Transfer the cooked waffles to a platter or individual plates.

8. Serve with freshly whipped cream, butter, maple syrup, jams or preserves, and/or additional fresh berries.

9. Place any leftover waffles in a ziplock bag and store in the refrigerator. Heat them up in a toaster (they will re-crisp up beautifully).

Notes: (1) I used this All-Clad waffle maker to make these Blueberry Buttermilk Waffles. If I were buying a new waffle maker I would consider buying the four versus two square one. (2) If you don't like Blueberry Waffles, make these super delicious waffles plain. 

Chocolate Dipped Shortbread Cookies

Every time I open up the refrigerator, the stockpile of unsalted butter is staring me in the face. There is at least ten pounds of butter just waiting to be put to good use. With Valentine's Day right around the corner I thought maybe I should bake up some buttery, melt in your mouth shortbread cookies, dip them in luscious melted chocolate, adorn with some heart sprinkles, and send out a few surprise, unexpected Valentine Day packages. Not only would it be one way for me to start making a dent in my unsalted butter inventory (it would be a travesty for any of it to go to waste), it would give me the opportunity to share some homemade love. 

I have made this shortbread cookie recipe before in a variety of shapes. However, these cookies would have to be heart shaped. Not just because we have long associated Valentine's Day with hearts, but because the heart has evolved over centuries into being one recognized across cultures as a symbol of love, charity, joy, and compassion. If my surprise tins of heart shaped cookies spark a little joy, then it would have been the best ever use of some of my ample supply of butter. 

With the shaped of the shortbread decided, the next decision I had to make was 'to dip or not to dip' the shortbread in chocolate. Sort of a no-brainer one, right? Because what would Valentines' Day be without a little chocolate? 

Made with only five ingredients, shortbread (with or without chocolate) may be one of those cookies with the widest appeal. Crunchy, buttery, not too sweet deliciousness at it's best. When a cookie has very few ingredients, the quality of the ingredients matter. Using a European style unsalted butter and a good quality vanilla have the power to transform the ordinary shortbread cookie into an extraordinary one. 

This shortbread dough doesn't require any chilling time (unless you are baking on a hot, humid day). Rolled out to at least a 3/8" thickness, the cookies bake up in around 20-22 minutes in a pre-heated 350 degree (F) oven. When the edges and bottoms of the shortbread cookies are beautifully golden in color, they are done. After remaining on the cookie sheet for at least 5 minutes, the shortbread gets transferred to a cooling rack. The shortbread needs to come to room temperature before they are dipped in melted chocolate.

For the best chocolate flavor and most beautiful finish, use good quality melting chocolate. Do not use a bag of chocolate chips. 

Ted Lasso's gesture of giving the gift of classic, homemade shortbread wrapped up in box and tied with a ribbon is an endearing one. Your gift of these Chocolate Dipped Shortbread Cookies is destined to be an equally charming gesture of love and/or friendship. So, if you haven't yet figured out what to get or make for your friends and/or family for Valentine's Day, a tin of these cookies might just be the most perfect unexpected surprise!

But don't just make them for Valentine's Day. Put these epic shortbread cookies (with or without the chocolate) on repeat. 

Recipe

Chocolate Dipped Shortbread Cookies

Makes at least 16-24 cookies, depending on size

Ingredients

3/4 pound (339g) unsalted European style butter, room temperature (see notes)

1 cup (200g) granulated sugar, plus more for finishing the cookies

1 Tablespoon good quality vanilla (e.g., Nielsen-Massey)

3 1/2 cups (455g) all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon Kosher salt

10-12 ounces milk or dark melting chocolate (e.g., use chocolate disks from sold at some candy stores or use the Ghiradelli melting chocolate, do not use chocolate chips)

Sprinkles

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees (F). Line two large rimmed baking sheets with parchment paper set aside.

2. Sift together the flour and Kosher salt. Set aside.

3. In the bowl of a standing mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, mix the butter, sugar and vanilla on low speed, just until combined (do not whip).

4. Add the dry ingredients in two batches, mixing just until the dough comes together. Large clumps should form.

5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out half of the dough to 3/8" thickness. Cut out using 2" - 3" sized cookie cutters (hearts make for gorgeous cookies). Note: Before rolling out the dough, gently shape into a ball, then flatted to about an inch thickness before rolling out. I did not need to chill the dough before rolling it out. But if your dough is soft for some reason, chill only for 10 minutes before rolling out.

6. Carefully transfer the cookies to one of the baking sheets. Space the cookies at least one inch apart as they will expand slightly as they bake. Lightly sprinkle with granulated sugar

7. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until the edges just begin to brown. Remove the pan from the oven but keep the cookies on the pan. Immediately some additional spoon granulated sugar over each cookie (or over only half of the cookie if you are dipping in melted chocolate). Allow the cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet. When the cookies cool, shake off the excess sugar.

8. Repeat with remaining dough.

9. Melt chocolate (using either the microwave or double boiler method). Dip half of the cooled cookies into the melted chocolate. Optional: Put the remaining melted chocolate into a piping bag and pipe decoratively on the cookies. Before the chocolate sets, add the sprinkles, if using. Allow the cookies to set completely.

10. Serve the cookies room temperature. Store the cookies in a sealed container at room temperature or wrap in cellophane bags.

Notes: (1) I used Kerrygold unsalted butter and highly recommend. It's higher butterfat content helps to create the most flavorful shortbread as well as a dough with a great rolling out consistency. However, if you don't have access to a European-style butter, use a good quality unsalted butter. (2) It is not necessary to chill the dough before rolling it out. It rolls out beautifully. (3) I used these heart cookie cutters from Williams-Sonoma.(4) I have made these shortbread cookies more than a half dozen times. Each time they came out as perfect as the first time.

Ham, Egg and Cheese Breakfast Sandwiches

"Imitation is the highest form of flattery." One of the many things returning in this post pandemic world is our running group potluck gatherings. With the Winter Warrior running season ending and everyone (sans me) completing their half-marathon goal races, we had a celebratory potluck this past weekend. My contribution to the potluck was my favorite Cherry Preserves and Mascarpone French Toast Casserole. Blueberry muffins, healthy muffins, doughnuts, bagels, and fruit salads were in abundance, but the breakfast sandwiches served were devoured almost as soon as they came out of the oven. Which got me wondering why I hadn't ever thought to make these easy, crowd pleasing sandwiches before. Maybe I have a much more sheltered life than I am willing to admit! 

In typical fashion, I couldn't wait to create my version of the Ham, Egg, and Cheese Breakfast Sandwiches served at the potluck. I can't be certain (because I didn't get the recipe), but these breakfast sandwiches probably aren't too different from the ones served. Because in all seriousness, there are more similarities than differences between all of the recipes for breakfast sandwiches made with Hawaiian Rolls. My take on these breakfast sandwiches might be characterized as more of a slight twist, personal preference recipe rather than an innovative 'worthy of going viral' one.

Which kind of ham to use, which kind of cheese to use, what ingredients to go into making the glaze, and how the eggs are scrambled comprise the four key variables to these breakfast sandwiches. A change to any one of them will result in a slightly different flavor profile. The recipe shared here reflects my breakfast sandwich taste preferences.

Using a dozen eggs will help ensure each breakfast sandwich has on egg on them. Twelve eggs also help to create a heartier sandwich. While the number of eggs used is important, how the eggs are made is even more important. Because how the eggs are scrambled matters as overcooked or under/over-seasoned eggs (they will continue to cook when the sandwiches are baked in the oven) will result in a very unappetizing sandwich. My recipe for the creamiest, fluffiest scrambled eggs contains only four ingredients: eggs, kosher salt, black pepper, and butter. No milk, no water. 

I had read somewhere that the ratio of a 1/4 teaspoon of Kosher salt to three large eggs is the best formula for perfectly salted eggs. In keeping with that formula, this recipe calls for one teaspoon of Kosher salt for the dozen eggs. Which you might think is a lot of salt, but trust me, it's the perfect amount. While I suggest using only a 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper, feel free to increase that amount to your 'pepper' taste preference.

Unsalted butter is used both in the pan and in the egg mixture. One tablespoon in the pan, two tablespoons in the egg mixture. The butter in the eggs will melt as they cook, creating a soft, creamy, fluffy, heavenly texture. The key when making scrambled eggs for these breakfast sandwiches is to very slightly undercook them. They should look creamy, not dry.

There are six layers to the breakfast sandwiches: Hawaiian rolls, cheese, ham, eggs, cheese and Hawaiian rolls. So let's talk about the ham and the cheese for a second. I used Boar's Head Tavern Ham and Boar's Head Vermont Cheddar Cheese. But use your favorite ham and cheese from the deli. Honey Ham might be delicious as would provolone cheese. 

Using a 9" x 12" baking pan allows you to check on the 'melting' status of the cheese. So I recommend using a baking pan that gives the Hawaiian Rolls some breathing room while they bake. 

What makes these breakfast sandwiches even more flavorful is the to-die-for topping. Melted butter, dijon mustard, maple syrup and everything but the bagel sesame seasoning adds both savory and sweet flavors! The mixture gets brushed on the Hawaiian rolls right before baking. If making ahead and refrigerating (for several hours or overnight), wait until you bake them to brush the mixture on. Otherwise your rolls will get soggy and not bake up well. 

Baked in preheated 350 degree (F) oven, the Ham, Egg and Cheese Breakfast Sandwiches bake up in 20-22 minutes. You know your sandwiches are done when they are heated through and the cheese has melted.

Cut into twelve sandwiches and then get ready to watch them disappear. These may be one of the most flavorful, hearty, scrumptious, crowd-pleasing breakfast sandwiches to ever come out of your oven. They make potluck and weekend entertaining easy! Thank goodness for the return of in-person gatherings. Not just for the food or the opportunity to be a copycat, but for the friendships!

Recipe

Ham, Egg and Cheese Breakfast Sandwiches

Makes 12 and serves 6-8 (some will want two!)

Ingredients

12 large eggs

1 teaspoon Kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

6 Tablespoons, unsalted butter, slightly softened, divided

12 Hawaiian Rolls, cut in half horizontally

12 slices of Tavern Ham (or Honey Ham or other good ham), folded into quarters (i.e., ham slices should be almost 1/8" of thickness)

12 slices of Cheddar Cheese (or provolone) - (cheese slices should almost be 1/8"of thickness

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 Tablespoon Dijon mustard (i.e., Maille) 

1 Tablespoon Maple Syrup

2 teaspoons Everything but the Bagel Sesame Seasoning

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees (F). Lightly butter a 9" x 12" or 10" x 10" baking dish with 1 Tablespoon butter. Set aside.

2. Lay the bottom half of the Hawaiian Rolls in the baking pan. Lightly spread 2 Tablespoons butter over the bread.

3. Lay 6 pieces of the cheddar cheese on top of the bread. Some of the slices will be overlapping.

4. Lay the 12 pieces of ham on top of the cheese layer.

5. Whisk together the eggs, Kosher salt, and black pepper until well blended. Add in 2 Tablespoons of butter (cut the butter into thin slices before adding in).

6. In a large non-stick skillet, melt 1 Tablespoon of butter. Add in the egg mixture. Cook over medium-low heat until the eggs are soft scrambled (they will continue to cook in the oven). Note: Use a spatula to gently mix the eggs in the pan. 

7. Evenly spread the eggs over the ham slice layer.

8. Top with the remaining 6 slices of cheese.

9. Place top of the Hawaiian Rolls on. Press down lightly.

10. Mix together the 1/4 cup of melted butter, Dijon mustard, maple syrup and Everything but the Bagel Sesame Seasoning. Brush all of the mixture on top of the Hawaiian bread.

11. Place the baking pan on a baking sheet before putting it in the oven. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until the cheese has melted and they are completely heated through.

12. Remove from oven. Cut into 12 sandwiches. Serve on a platter or in the baking dish.

Notes: (1) I used Boar's Head Tavern Ham and Boar's Head Vermont Cheddar. (2) The Everything but the Bagel Sesame Seasoning was from Trader Joe's. (3) You can assemble the breakfast sandwiches the night before but do not brush on the butter/mustard/maple syrup/seasoning mixture until ready to bake. Baking time might be slightly longer if the breakfast sandwiches were chilled. (4) The recipe can easily be doubled if you are serving a big crowd.

Peanut Butter Oat Chocolate Bars aka Energy Bars

"It's funny how in life it's the simple things in life that means the most." Never has this old adage been more true than in the past few weeks. Since shortly after the new year I was without my oven. Up until that moment, I had been taking my oven for granted. And in what felt like the three longest weeks of my life, all of my best laid plans for working on new recipes, baking cookies, and making comfort food meals went astray. If I wasn't someone who used the oven with a high degree of frequency, this wouldn't have been a big deal, just a minor inconvenience. For me, it felt like a first world order crisis. Fortunately, the part needed to fix the oven was in stock and it's cost didn't cause me to gasp. If the repairman wasn't on such a tight schedule, I would have baked him some of my favorite chocolate cookies (there are always balls of dough in the freezer) as a small token of my appreciation. Needless to say, the lesson in all of this was a reminder to better appreciate the simple things. 

In keeping with the theme of simple things, these Peanut Butter Oat Chocolate Bars aka Energy Bars definitely qualify. They are perfect for breakfast, as a mid-day snack, as a post run recovery treat, on a hike, or whenever you get a craving for something crunchy, chocolatey, nutty, oaty, and peanut buttery with a hint of flaky sea salt. I might even go out on a limb and say they are healthy-ish! 

Along with being delicious and little bit addictive, these Peanut Butter Oat Chocolate Bars aka Energy Bars are destined to become wildly popular with your family and friends.

With everyone being concerned about the price and availability of eggs these days, these bars are eggless worry free! These were made with both dark/semi-sweet and milk chocolate, but you could easily make them with either one. Regardless of which chocolate or chocolates you decide to use, I would highly recommend using oversized chips or chopping the chocolate (see notes). The oats used in the bars are the quick, one-minute oats, NOT old-fashioned oats. Toasting the pecans beforehand is always a good idea as it not only deepens their flavor, it helps to keep them crunchy during the baking process. The hint of cinnamon and a finishing sprinkle of flaky sea salt only adds to their scrumptiousness.

The assembly process couldn't be simpler as the bar's base and top come together in a bowl! Even the two-step baking process still makes them unfussy. 

Half of the flour, oat, brown sugar, melted butter, baking soda, Kosher salt, and cinnamon mixture gets pressed into a parchment paper lined metal (not glass) 9" x 9" baking pan. This layer bakes for about 10-12 minutes in a preheated 350 degree (F) oven. After letting it cool for a few minutes, some of the chocolates get sprinkled on top. Followed by teaspoonfuls of the creamy peanut butter and coarsely chopped toasted pecans. To recreate that textured finish, pinch teaspoonfuls of the remaining mixture and spread evenly over the top. Lightly press the top layer down, then finish with the remaining chocolates and a light sprinkle of the flaky sea salt. The pan goes back in the oven for another 18-22 minutes or until they are golden in color.

Once they cool completely, cut them into 10 generously sized bars or 20 good sized bites. 

For the prettiest presentation, wrap them in some parchment paper and baker's string. Store them covered in the refrigerator or keep covered at room temperature. Personally, I like them even better on the slightly chilled side.

These bars are crunchy, a little bit crumbly, Between their texture, their heartiness, and the layers of flavor, the Peanut Butter Oat Chocolate Bars aka Energy Bars are everything a really great bar should be. Simple never tasted so good!

Recipe

Peanut Butter Oat Chocolate Bars aka Energy Bars

Make 10 good sized bars or 20 nice sized bites

Ingredients

1 1/4 cups (156g) all-purpose flour

1 cup (90g) quick cooking-1 minute oats (NOT old-fashioned oats)

3/4 cup (165g) light brown sugar, firmly packed

3/4 cup + 1 T  (183g) unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly (about 5 minutes)

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt

1/2 slightly heaped teaspoon Saigon cinnamon

2/3 cup (75g) pecan halves, toasted and coarsely chopped

3/4 cup (128g) dark or semisweet chocolate (chips or chopped chocolate), divided - See Notes

3/4 cup (128g) milk chocolate (chips or chopped chocolate), divided - See Notes

3/4 cup (224g) creamy peanut butter (e.g., JIF)

Flaky sea salt

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees (F). Line a 9" x 9" metal baking pan with parchment paper. Set aside.

2. In a medium sized bowl, add in the flour, oats, brown sugar, melted unsalted butter, baking soda, Kosher salt, and cinnamon. Mix to completely combine.

3. Divide the mixture in half. Press half firmly into the prepared baking pan. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly (about 5 minutes).

4. Sprinkle 1/2 cup (85g) of the dark or semi-sweet chocolate and 1/2 cup (85g) of the milk chocolate over the crust.

5. Evenly drop spoonfuls of the peanut butter next, leaving about 1/2" border along the edges.

6. Sprinkle the coarsely chopped pecans.

7. Squeeze the remaining dough into small clumps and evenly distribute. Press down slightly.

8. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup (43g) of the dark or semi-sweet chocolate and 1/4 cup (43g) of the milk chocolate over the top crust layer. Press the pieces of chocolate in slightly.

9. Lightly sprinkle with flaky sea salt (e.g., Maldon Sea Salt)

10. Bake for 18-22 minutes or until golden. Let cool completely in the pan.

11. Remove from the pan and cut into 10 bars. Wrap in paper or place in glassine bags. Or cut into 20 pieces and place into cupcake cups. 

12. Enjoy or store covered in the refrigerator. Note: I think they are even more delicious slightly chilled.

Notes: (1) For the milk chocolate I used Trader Joe's Milk Chocolate Bars. But you could also use good sized milk chocolate chips. (2) For the semisweet chocolate I used Guittard's Super Cookie Chips (48% cocoa). Or you could chop up some chocolate. (3) To toast the pecans, place the halves on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated 350 degree (F) oven for 8-9 minutes or until fragrant. Let cool slightly before coarsely chopping. (4) Inspiration for this recipe came from the Chocolate Dulce De Leche Bars from the Bake Feed. Several adaptations were made to the both ingredients and baking times.

Honey Ricotta, Roasted Red Pepper & Pistachio Crostini

These Honey Ricotta, Roasted Red Pepper & Pistachio Crostini were inspired by an appetizer we had ordered and subsequently devoured while enjoying dinner out with friends. I took one bite of the crostini and immediately thought 'I need to figure out how to re-create this at home'. Which is exactly what happened several weeks later. I was having a small dinner party and wanted the appetizer course to be relatively easy, yet be one with  high 'wow in appearance and taste' factors. And apparently they did, as everyone raved about them! Needless to say the Honey Ricotta, Roasted Red Pepper & Pistachio Crostini helped to get night off a great start. 

If there was an ever an appetizer to go on repeat appearances around here, this one would be high on the list.

What makes this Honey Ricotta, Roasted Red Pepper & Pistachio Crostini so delicious are it's flavors and textures. With a bit of crunch coming from the crostini and chopped pistachios, to the creaminess of the honey infused ricotta, to the sweetness of the roasted red peppers, to the fruity, sweetness of the drizzle of honey, they are heaven in a bite.

The crostini can be made in the oven or on the grill. Lately I have been making them on the grill as it gives the crostini another dimension of flavor. Whole milk ricotta and honey get whipped together until smooth and creamy. Using a pastry bag (or a plastic bag with one corner cut off) makes for an even more luxurious beautiful bite. 

Roasted red peppers are easy to make on the grill. Char them until all sides are blackened. Place the charred peppers in a brown paper bag, seal, and let cool until you can handle them. Remove the charred skin, stem and seeds before cutting into 1/8" strips. Whatever you do, do not rinse the roasted red peppers as you will be removing some of their delicious flavor. These can be made early in the day and kept at room temperature or the day before (covered and chilled in the refrigerator). Another option would be to use jarred roasted red peppers. 

Chopped pistachios and pistachio dust get sprinkled on top of the strips of red pepper. A generous drizzle of good honey and some micro-greens are the finishing touch. 

All of the elements of the Honey Ricotta, Roasted Red Pepper & Pistachio Crostini can be made several hours ahead, but they should be assembled and arranged on a platter within 30 minutes of serving. However, wait to drizzle the honey until you are ready to serve them. 

These rustic, blissful Honey Ricotta, Roasted Red Pepper & Pistachio Crostini are on the heartier side. Which makes them a great stand alone appetizer. Although served with a bowl of Rosemary Roasted Cashews you have the makings of the most perfect (and easy) appetizer course. Or pair these two and serve them at a casual gathering of friends. 

Valentine's Day, Galentine's Day, the Grammys, and/or the Oscars coming in the weeks ahead give you all the more reason to make these swoonworthy Honey Ricotta, Roasted Red Pepper & Pistachio Crostini. 

Recipe

Honey Ricotta, Roasted Red Pepper & Pistachio Crostini

Makes 16-18

Ingredients

1 French Demi-Baguette (7oz/198g), cut into 1/4" slice on the diagonal, grilled or toasted in the oven (you should get 16 to 18 slices)

16 ounces (453g) whole milk ricotta

1 Tablespoon + 1 teaspoon good quality honey, plus more for drizzling

1/8 teaspoon Kosher Salt

1 - 2 red peppers, roasted, peeled, seeded, and cut into 1/8" slices (or can use jarred roasted red peppers)

Flaky sea salt (i.e., Maldon)

1/4 cup (35g) finely chopped pistachios (you want both small pieces and dust)

Micro-greens

Directions

1. Brush both side of the sliced baguette with olive oil. Place on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 400 degree (F) for 10-12 minutes or until golden. Alternately make the crostini on the grill. Allow the crostini to cool.

2. In a medium sized bowl, whip the whole milk ricotta, honey, and Kosher salt until smooth and creamy. Place in a pastry bag or in a plastic bag (with one end cut). Pipe on top of the crostini.

3. Toss the slices of roasted red peppers with some flaky sea salt before arranging on top of the honey whipped ricotta.

4. Sprinkle some chopped pistachios and pistachio dust on top of the red peppers.

5. Drizzle with some honey. Top with some micro-greens. Serve immediately.

Notes: (1) You can make the Honey Whipped Ricotta early in the day or several hours ahead. Store covered in the refrigerator. (2) You can make the roasted red peppers early in the day. If grilling them to blacken their skins, place in a brown paper bag and seal. Let the red peppers cool. Remove from the bag, peel off the blackened skin, cut to remove stem and seeds. DO NOT RINSE the peppers. Cut the red peppers into thin strips. Place in a bowl. Lightly salt with flaky sea salt. Cover and let rest at room temperature if using several hours later. If roasted in the morning to be used for the evening, store covered in the refrigerator. (3) You can find micro-greens near the herb section at many grocery store. I generally buy mine at Whole Foods, but at the Farmer's Marker during the summer months.