Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding

My local coffee shop makes an absolutely fantastic bread pudding. So fantastic in fact, that one day I asked the owner if he’d be willing to share the recipe.  After receiving an extremely surly, “no” in reply I decided I could make it better myself. This recipe is the result.  To me it tastes like the holidays; like warm cinnamon rolls with a little bit of sweet, tart apple pie freshness.  Not only is it the perfect festive dessert, it also makes for a wonderfully indulgent holiday breakfast. I love it because I can make it the day before and just re-heat it when I’m ready to serve, leaving me free to celebrate the season with my guests.  Continue reading

Peas & Pancetta

Peas & Pancetta is one of my favorite Thanksgiving sides.  Be sure to use petite peas as they are sweeter than full size peas and make a better balance for the salty pancetta.  I like to use the pre-diced pancetta from Trader Joe’s. It just makes life easier and around Thanksgiving I’ll take very ounce of easier I can get!  Continue reading