Easy Cherry Streusel Pastry Cake + Book & Tote Giveaway from author Cleo Coyle

Truth? I have never been a big fan of Valentine's Day. When I was a singleton, I felt left out. As part of a couple (though I do dearly love my husband), I find the whole holiday somewhat forced. Not that it's a bad idea to enrich hardworking chocolatiers, restaurateurs, and greeting card companies. The economy can use as much activity as earnest sweethearts can give it!

On the other hand, I can't help thinking of the many people who are not in the hearts and flowers mood this week. If you are among them, I'm here to help (if only a little) by suggesting...

(#1) We include our beloved pets in the

"Valentine Sweetheart" category and...

(#2) We indulge in a little baking therapy. 

💘

To continue reading my Valentine
recipe post click here (or scroll down).

Easy Kahlua Brownies by Cleo Coyle

💗 💗 💗

Click here for the
free Recipe PDF.

For the love
of chocolate...
and coffee!

Most culinary experts agree that chocolate and coffee are a perfect match. The reason? Both are made from roasted beans, so when you add coffee to chocolate desserts, it enhances that deep roasted flavor, making the chocolate taste richer and more intense. That’s one reason why Kahlua brownies are so popular. The other is the "spirit" of the rum in the sweet coffee liqueur, which brings the party with the flavor.

Unfortunately, retaining that flavor is tricky. Many recipes instruct you to add Kahlua to your batter, but during the baking, much of the taste and spirits are cooked away. Today’s easy recipe shares how Marc and I make our Kahlua brownies. Here's a hint. We were inspired by the affogato...

Affogato, which means "drowned" in Italian, is a deliciously easy dessert in which Italians simply pour a shot or two of hot espresso (or strongly brewed coffee) over a scoop or two of gelato or ice cream.

As for the brownies, get our easy recipe by scrolling down or clicking here or on the "Read More" link below. May you bake with love and...eat with joy!

~ Cleo