gifts | Meggie Mae Aprons

Oh Sweet Cinnamon Rolls!

April 7, 2010 at 5:28 pm | Posted in Recipes | Leave a comment
Tags: Aprons, baking, bon appetit magazine, gifts, Yukon Gold Cinnamon Rolls

What a wonderful spring we have been having here in the Texas hill country! I have been looking forward to the ripe fruits and vegetables that should be on their way! We have a strawberry farm a few miles away, and I’m looking forward to getting out there in the next week or so to pick some ripe, juicy berries. I’m contemplating whether I am going to share my favorite Strawberry Pie recipe with you-I know, Selfish Me! I’m sure I’m not the only one who withholds secret family recipes, or am I??? Anyway, more on that in the next week or two.

Yummy and Sticky!

This past week I baked up some made from scratch sweet cinnamon rolls-Yukon Gold Cinnamon Rolls to be exact. The recipe was from Bon Appétit-one of my favorite sites. I’m not one for using yeast and letting things rise, just not that patient. So to my surprise (and the joy of my family), I found myself making these rolls. I guess the pictures tempted me. They were actually much easier that I had imagined, and from the way they turned out, I will definitely be making more for guests and special occasions. Next time I will add more of the cinnamon filling (they never add enough in my opinion). I will also try freezing them before they rise so that I can have them ready for company.

The special thing about these cinnamon rolls is that they contain potatoes! Being the finicky eater that he is, my husband cringed at the thought of it; he just hasn’t heard of potato bread and the like. I’m positive the creamy, buttery potatoes were the reason for the light, smooth, airy texture of these rolls. The icing was also very easy, but again, not enough for my liking-I made two batches.

Yukon Gold Cinnamon Rolls

So on a day when you’re wanting to bake, and wanting your family to praise your cooking ability, or you’re trying to impress you breakfast guests, try these delicious rolls and let me know how you like them!

(Note to my sisters: Yes, I will include you on the guest list!)

~Karin~

Needing a hostess gift? A Meggie Mae Apron makes a great gift!

Fast, Easy, Hot Out Of The Oven

March 25, 2010 at 1:12 pm | Posted in Recipes | Leave a comment
Tags: Aprons, baking, bridal gifts, gifts, house warming gifts, Irish Soda Bread, meggie mae aprons, Recipes, wedding gifts

Several weeks ago (on my birthday weekend) my husband took me to The Bluebonnet Café for breakfast. If you have never been to The Bluebonnet in Marble Falls, Texas read the full article at www.roamingthehills.wordpress.com

This week I made some Irish Soda Bread. I know, I’m a little slow at getting around to baking it. I should have made it St. Patrick’s Day as planned. Oh well! So I started to make some Irish Soda Bread with a recipe from Simply Recipes. I made a few changes, and now call it my Irish American Bread! First, I substituted ½ of the flour (2 cups) for whole wheat flour. After about 35 minutes, I had to cover the bread in foil and cook it an additional 10 minutes or so. The whole wheat makes the bread a little denser, but I expected that. Second, I used craisins instead of raisins. My son and I enjoyed the bread hot right out of the oven. YUM! The creamy butter we added melted over the top of the piping hot bread and the craisins added a little sweetness. This was soooo fast and easy! This would be wonderful accompanying a pot of soup.You can find the recipe here http://simplyrecipes.com/recipes/irish_soda_bread/

Irish Soda Bread

Remember Meggie Mae Aprons when you’re looking for your next bridal or house warming gift.

May the luck o’the Irish be with ya in all your baking!

~Karin~

Aprons, Recipes, and Gardening in the Hill Country

March 5, 2010 at 2:01 pm | Posted in Aprons, Recipes | Leave a comment
Tags: Aprons, baking, chic aprons, Coconut Lime Crumble Bars, cooking, food blogs, gardening, gardening aprons, gifts, meggie mae aprons, Pot Roast

Last week I made the Italian Pot Roast from the Simply Recipes web site. Oh so comforting! This week I plan on making the Chicken and Apples in Honey Mustard Sauce as well as the Tomatillo Chicken Stew. I’ll be sure to let you know which one was my favorite 🙂

I also enjoyed making some yummy little treats from Baking Bites. The Coconut Lime Crumble Bars were oh sooooo good! I’m tempted by anything with lemon or lime, and with the addition of coconut well, they just absolutely beckon spring!

From my back porch I hear the birds chirping and see some of the trees budding. I’m very excited about getting out and working in the yard. My Meggie Mae Apron really comes in handy when I’m gardening. My favorite to wear while working in the yard is the ‘bistro reversible apron’ because of the deep pockets which hold my pruning shears and seed packets, as well as the short length which allows me to stoop and bend without letting the apron touch the ground. And of course it is ‘reversible!’

The 'Bistro Reversible Apron'

I hope to have more herbs this year, as I was very happy with my little plot from last year, but there are so many beautiful, fragrant varieties that you can never have enough. Oh, and did I mention most herbs are deer proof? You have to consider that above all else when growing in the Texas Hill Country!

~Karin~

I Love Spring!

February 25, 2010 at 1:32 pm | Posted in Aprons | 1 Comment
Tags: Aprons, baking, cooking, gifts, modern aprons, Spring cleaning, stylish aprons

Today I’m headed to the fabric store. I’m so excited to look at Spring colors and patterns! Walking into a fabric store for me is like a child in a candy store. I like to touch everything, and I can’t make up my mind on what I like best-so I try them all! Can’t wait to design new aprons and get them listed for you to see. I’m hoping to do some spring cleaning (I know, it’s only February) by redesigning my website as well.

Try wearing a stylish new Meggie Mae Apron –it just might help you get a jump on your spring cleaning too!

I love Spring!!

The 'Margaret' Apron

~Karin~

Free Shipping on Meggie Mae Apron Orders!

February 23, 2010 at 8:19 pm | Posted in Aprons | Leave a comment
Tags: Aprons, bridal gifts, chic aprons, fashion, fashion aprons, gifts, mother/daughter aprons, shower gifts, wedding gifts

Enter code ‘ship5’ at checkout to receive free shipping on your entire order. This offer will expire on March 4th 2010, so don’t delay! Meggie Mae Aprons make perfect birthday, hostess, or bridal/shower gifts. We also offer gift wrapping for your convenience.

The 'Blue Hostess' Apron

Healthy Ideas for Breakfast and Dinner

January 29, 2010 at 2:12 pm | Posted in Food Talk, Recipes | Leave a comment
Tags: Aprons, cooking, fish, food, gifts, Recipes, Sonoma Diet, trout, valentines day gifts, whole wheat crepes

I’m on day 18 of my no sugar, no flour 21 day resolution! I have to admit, I did splurge and have some of the chocolate cheesecake I made, but other than that, I’ve stayed the course. I’m almost there! I do feel better without the sugar and flour coursing through my veins. But to tell you the truth, can’t wait to start baking! Life is meant to be celebrated, and what’s a celebration without cake?

We’ll, this week I did try some outstanding recipes. My first was Rosemary Trout with Cherry Tomato Sauce from Food & Wine magazine. This is such a fast and easy meal to make and it’s the perfect winter dish-it has a warm, carmel color and is light and flavorful. I used trout filets with the skin on for my dinner served with steamed asparagus, Greek salad and crusty whole grain bread.

Rosemary Trout with Cherry -Tomato Sauce

4 servings. A couple of rosemary sprigs are all you need to flavor each whole trout.

Fish

1 pint cherry tomatoes (preferably assorted color), halves
1 large shallot, chopped
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
2 teaspoons finely chopped fresh rosemary plus 8 large sprigs
4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Coarse kosher salt
4 -10 to 12 ounce whole trout, gutted, boned, heads removed, if desired

Mix tomatoes, shallot, vinegar and chopped rosemary in bowl. Stir in 1 tablespoon oil.
Season sauce with salt and pepper.
Open trout like book on work surface. Sprinkle with coarse salt and pepper.
Place 2 rosemary springs on each; fold over to close.
Divide 3 tablespoons oil between 2 large nonstick skillets. Place over medium-high heat.
Add 2 trout to each skillet. Cook trout until brown outside and just opaque in center, about
3 minutes per side. Transfer to plates. Spoon sauce alongside.

My next dish I enjoyed was for breakfast-although it could be a dessert as well-whole wheat fruit crepes. I love crepes because you can make them easily, they are lighter than tortillas, and you can fill them with just about anything to make a terrific meal. I filled mine with fresh fruit and non-fat plain yogurt, with a dollop of fresh whipped cream (no sugar added). These are so delish! I’ve made crepes before, but this whole-grain recipe filled with fruit is one of my favorites. I can make a batch, wrap them between parchment paper, and they keep in the fridge up to 4 days.

Wheat Crepes –adapted from The Sonoma Diet Cookbook

Whole-wheat Crepes

2 eggs

2/3 cup water

½ cup milk

1 TB olive oil

1 cup whole wheat flour

pinch of salt

In a small bowl blend the eggs, water, milk and olive oil. In a large bowl mix the whole-wheat flour and salt. Make a well in the flour. Slowly stir the liquid ingredients into the flour until thoroughly combined.

Let set at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Coat a non-stick skillet with spray oil. Heat skillet on medium-low heat. Pour batter into skillet. You might have to lift the skillet and swirl the batter to get it to spread. Heat for 2-3 minutes on each side. Transfer to a platter and continue with the remaining batter. Place parchment paper between crepes.

These healthy fruit crepes are easy to put together in the morning if you slice your fruit the night before. Then the next morning just spread your fruit and yogurt in the crêpe, wrap in cellophane, grab your coffee, and you’re out the door.

The 'Lisa' Apron

I hope these recipes get you off to a great start!

~Karin~

Valentine’s Day will soon be here. Order your apron today!

Healthy Findings

January 14, 2010 at 5:52 pm | Posted in Food Talk, Recipes | Leave a comment
Tags: Aprons, bean soup, cooking, gifts, healthy cooking, Healthy recipes, reviews, spaghetti squash, valentines day gifts

I’m not by any means giving up baking. I love baked goods of all kinds. I love to look at the artistic ability of professional and non-professional chefs alike. I am amazed at the beauty they can create in the kitchen to delight our sense of sight, smell, and taste. Food –especially baked goods-are such an enjoyment; they represent the celebration of heritage and festivities in cultures throughout the world, and that’s wonderful to be a part of!

So this 21 day resolution of giving up sugar and processed flour can’t be over quick enough. This is my 4^th day of my so-called “diet.” I thought the first day was very easy, but by day three the biscotti I had deliberately hidden in the back of the freezer was calling my name. My morning cup o’joe wasn’t quite as satisfying without the sugar, but by the end of the week I think I will be accustomed to the new taste. The best part of the week was that I found some great healthy recipes!

Spaghetti Squash with Pine Nuts and Tarragon

Day one I prepared Bean Soup that you buy in the dried bean section of the grocery store (can’t remember the brand.) I prepared it according to directions, except instead of pork sausage I used chicken sausage with spinach and it was healthy, very tasty, economical, easy, and makes enough for you to freeze leftovers.

My favorite find of the week was Spaghetti Squash. I came across a recipe in Food and Wine Magazine, and since I had never made this type of squash, I thought I’d give it a try. This was such a healthy, easy and bright side dish! I really enjoyed it and had a lot left over for lunch the next day. Here is the recipe- http://tinyurl.com/yj95v4h . I made a few adjustments of my own: 3 squash is waaay to many- used 1. I didn’t have white wine vinegar-I had red wine vinegar. I didn’t have fresh tarragon-I had dried and I mixed in a small amount according to taste. I didn’t have queso fresco so I used crumbled feta cheese. Since I wasn’t using the recommended 3 squash, I thought I would have lots of dressing left over, but I ended up using it all-you might use less according to your taste.

The 'Julia' Apron

Healthy Cooking!

Karin

If you’re needing a Valentine’s Day present for your favorite chef,

or a treat for yourself, check out Meggie Mae Aprons!

Best Dessert of the Year?

January 5, 2010 at 3:21 pm | Posted in Food Talk | Leave a comment
Tags: Aprons, baking, butterscotch sticky buns, chic aprons, cooking, dessert, dessert of the year, gifts, Recipes

You all know I love to bake. I’ve been baking non-stop since Halloween! My first attempt at a recipe for the New Year appears on this month’s front cover of Food and Wine Magazine. It was named the dessert of the year-Butterscotch Sticky Buns. In my opinion, sticky buns are not a dessert-they are like a pastry served at breakfast. So really, I don’t feel like this should have been named “Dessert” of the year, but who’s complaining?? Anyway, they looked so yummy staring at me from the front cover, I had to grab an apron and start bake them.

I’d have to say, they turned out very pretty, and the irresistible icing drizzled perfectly into all the folds of the little buns and absorbed into the bottom oh so right. But the downside was my dough turned out a little dense-probably had something to do with the yeast and temperature of the milk (I think it was too warm). Served hot, right out of the oven-oh who could resist? Overall, I’d say the first treat of the New Year was delicious! But best dessert of the year? That will need some testing. I’ll let you know in December how it holds up.

Happy Baking!

Butterscotch Sticky Buns

~Karin~

Happy 2010!

January 1, 2010 at 10:51 pm | Posted in Aprons | Leave a comment
Tags: Aprons, baking, bridal gifts, cooking, gifts, wedding gifts

Happy New Year! I’m so excited about the possibilities in 2010. For Meggie Mae Aprons it looks to be a very busy year with spring apron designs coming out, new product lines, and of course trying delicious new recipes.

Meggie Mae Aprons will also be having promotions with coupons and discounts throughout the year. So check our blog often to catch the savings! Our aprons are perfect for birthdays, Valentine’s Day, wedding showers, or hostess gift. Meggie Mae Aprons are of the finest quality, individually sewn and made from designer fabrics.

The 'Kim' Apron

Also, we’d love for you to join us on Facebook or Twitter by clicking one of the links to the right. I’m always wanting to hear about your favorite recipes!

Wishing you a happy and healthy New Year!

≈Karin≈

Christmas Biscotti

December 3, 2009 at 5:28 am | Posted in Aprons, Recipes | 1 Comment
Tags: Aprons, baking, biscotti, christmas gifts, cooking, gifts, holiday baking, honey, Recipes

It’s Christmas time, and that means lots of baking! I like to get a jump on baking so my home has lots of goodies when friends come over. I always start with biscotti because, as many of you know, I’m an avid coffee drinker and I love biscotti. I have a piece each morning during the holidays-my little treat. I usually make 3-4 different types. Below are two of my favorites. I love the honey smell of the Sesame-Honey biscotti, and the white chocolate flavoring on the Spicy Nut biscotti. Put on some Christmas carols and enjoy your holiday baking, and don’t forget to wear your Meggie Mae Apron!

Sesame-Honey Biscotti

Sesame-Honey Biscotti

1/3 cup butter or margarine
1/2 cup sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 eggs
1/4 cup honey
2 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/3 cup toasted sesame seeds
1/4 cup sesame seeds

Beat butter in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add sugar, baking powder, and 1/8 teaspoon salt; beat until combined. Beat in eggs and honey till combined. beat in as much flour as you can with the mixer. Stir in 1/3 cup toasted sesame seeds and any remaining flour.

Divide dough in half. With floured hands, shape each portion into a 12-inch log. Place rolls about 4 inches apart on a lightly greased cookie sheet. Flatten to about 3 inches width. Sprinkle with remaining sesame seeds and press them in with your hand.

Bake in a 375 degree oven for 15-20 minutes or till lightly browned. Cool on cookie sheet 1 hour.

Transfer to a cutting board; cut each loaf diagonally into 1/2 inch slices. Lay slices, cut side down, on the cookie sheet. Bake in a 325 degree oven for 10 minutes. Turn slices to the other side and bake 8 to 10 minutes more till dry and crisp. Remove and cool on a wire rack.

Spicy Nut Biscotti

Spicy Nut Biscotti

1/2 cup butter or margarine
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
3 eggs
2 teaspoons grated fresh gingerroot
or 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
3 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cups finely chopped nuts
1/2 cup vanilla coating or white chocolate

Beat butter or margarine in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. Add granulated and brown sugars, baking powder, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg; beat till combined. Beat in eggs till combined. Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer. Stir in any remaining flour with a wooden spoon. Set aside 2 tablespoons of the nuts. Stir remaining nuts into dough. Divide in half.

Shape each portion into a 12-inch roll. Place 5 inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet. Flatten slightly to 3-inch width. Sprinkle reserved chopped nuts on top of the loaves; press lightly into dough.

Bake in a 375 degree oven for 20-25 minutes or till lightly browned. Cool on a cookie sheet 1 hour or till completely cooled.

Transfer to a cutting board. Cut each loaf into 1/2-inch slices. lay slices, cut side down, on the cookie sheet. Bake in a 325 degree oven for 10 minutes. Turn slices to the other side and bake 10-15 minutes more till dry and crisp. Remove and cool on wire rack.

Melt white chocolate in the mircowave according to directions. Transfer to a small ziplock bag. Cut one corner off to form a very small opening. With the biscotti still on the cookie sheet, zig zag back and forth with the white chocolate to decorate the cookies.