This Italian Cream Cake has three light, buttery sponge cake rounds layered with vanilla pastry cream and conserve and is frosted with sweetened whipped cream. Choose your favorite jam or conserve. Raspberry and blackberry are two of our favorites. You’ll enjoy this cake the first day, but don’t feel like you need to finish it—it’s even better the second day as the sponge cake moistens absorbing the pastry cream and conserve. Keep the cake refrigerated and it’ll keep for up to five days.

INGREDIENTS

Makes one 9-inch cake

SPONGE CAKE1⅓ cups unbleached all-purpose flour2 tsp baking powder6 Tbsp (¾ stick) unsalted butter⅓ cup water1½ cups sugar, divided3 eggs, beaten3½ tsp pure vanilla extract, divided1 cup favorite jam or fruit conserve1½ cups heavy cream1 Tbsp powdered sugar

PASTRY CREAM4 eggs2 tsp pure vanilla extract2 Tbsp cornstarch½ cup + 1 Tbsp sugar1½ cups milk

DIRECTIONS:

SPONGE CAKEPreheat oven to 350°F. Brush a 9-inch cake pan with oil and line the base with a custom-cut circle of parchment paper. Dust the oiled sides of the pan with flour. Set aside.

In a medium bowl, sift together the flour and baking powder. Set aside.

In a small saucepan, melt the butter. Add the water, mix, and let cool.

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, add 1¼ cups sugar. With the mixer on low speed, slowly add the eggs and 2 tsp vanilla. Whisk at high speed for 5 minutes. The mixture will be light in color and frothy.

Remove the bowl from the mixer. Using a spatula, fold in the flour mixture in 4 additions. With the last addition, add the butter mixture and stir until just combined, ensuring there are no lumps.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake on the center rack for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool for 30 minutes. Run a paring knife around the edge of the cake. Invert the pan to remove the sponge cake. Let cool to room temperature.

PASTRY CREAMIn a medium bowl, crack the eggs and whisk together with the vanilla, cornstarch and sugar. Ensure no lumps remain.

In a medium saucepan, scald the milk (bringing it just to a boil). Remove it from the heat and slowly ladle the hot milk into the egg mixture, whisking constantly. Transfer the egg mixture back to the saucepan when you have three-quarters of the milk whisked into it. Over medium-low heat, whisk the mixture to prevent it from sticking or curdling. When the mixture has thickened to a pudding-like consistency, pour it into a clean bowl. Cover the top of the pastry cream with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour. Note: If you spot any lumps in the pastry cream, strain it through a fine-mesh sieve before cooling it.

ASSEMBLYUsing a serrated knife, cut the cake horizontally into 3 equal layers.

Place the bottom layer on a prepared cake board or plate. Spread the conserves over the first layer. Top with the second layer. Spread the chilled pastry cream to the edges. Top with the remaining layer and gently align the edges. Refrigerate the cake for 15 minutes to firm it up.

In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk the heavy cream, remaining 1½ tsp vanilla and remaining ¼cup sugar. Whip to medium-firm peaks.

Cover the top and sides of the cake with the sweetened whipped cream. Use a wet spatula to smooth it out. Garnish the top of the cake with a dusting of powdered sugar and fresh berries if you’d like.

Enjoy!

During the long PNW summer days, our favorite cooking method is outdoor grilling. Cut from the chuck (shoulder), the blade steak has excellent marbling and is flavorful and tender. A line of gristle runs down the center, so it’s important not to overcook it, otherwise it will get chewy. If you use an instant-read meat thermometer and are attentive, you’ll fall in love with blade steak. In this recipe, we prepare the steak with a Shawarma spice dry rub a day in advance. Since you can prepare the rest of the meal ahead, you only need to grill the steak and bread and assemble the plates when it's time to eat. If you can, enjoy the meal with a glass of your favorite wine, a few friends and the rich light of a long summer evening.

INGREDIENTS

Serves 4

BLADE STEAK2 Tbsp Shawarma Spice Blend, ground (available at worldspice.com)1 Tbsp brown sugar2 tsp kosher salt1½ lbs top blade steak (or sub flat-iron steak)3 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil

CAULIFLOWER SALAD1 head cauliflower2 bunches scallions, ½-inch slice½ cup extra virgin olive oil3 tsp garlic, finely chopped, divided½ cup tahini½ cup water2 Tbsp lemon juice1 Tbsp + 1 tsp pomegranate molasses1 Tbsp fresh mint, finely chopped¼ cup fresh cilantro, coarsely chopped

TZATZIKI SAUCE2 cups Greek yogurt (preferably low-fat)1 English cucumber, finely diced½ cup extra virgin olive oil2 Tbsp lime juice4 cloves garlic, finely diced½ tsp kosher salt¼ tsp white pepper, ground1 Macrina Greek Olive Loaf, sliced ½-inch thick (8 slices)

DIRECTIONS

BLADE STEAKCombine the dry ingredients. Rub the mix into both sides of the meat. Drizzle with olive oil and use your fingers to rub it over the meat. Place the meat in a covered container and refrigerate overnight.

CAULIFLOWER SALADPreheat oven to 375°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.

Halve the cauliflower and remove the core; coarsely chop or break it into 1 to 2-inch florets. Place the florets in a large bowl and toss with the scallions, olive oil and 2 tsp garlic. Spread the florets on the prepared baking sheet. Season with salt and pepper and roast for 35 to 40 minutes, or until tender. Let cool.

In the same large bowl, add the remaining 1 tsp garlic, tahini, water, lemon juice and pomegranate molasses. Whisk to combine.

Add the roasted cauliflower, mint and cilantro to the dressing. Toss well.

If you wish, season to taste with salt and pepper. Once dressed, allow the salad to rest at room temperature to marry flavors before serving.

TZATZIKI SAUCEIn a separate bowl, add the yogurt, cucumber, olive oil, lime juice, garlic, salt and pepper. Whisk to combine. Refrigerate until needed.

GRILLING THE STEAKPreheat your grill to 500°F. Brush a bit of oil on the hot grill to help prevent the spice rub from sticking.

Grill the blade steak for 5 to 6 minutes on each side. Use an instant-read meat thermometer to monitor the temperature. Remove the steak from the grill at 130°F for medium-rare. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly.

While the steak is resting, grill the bread. Brush both sides of each slice with olive oil and grill until lightly toasted and marked with grill lines. Place 2 slices on each plate. Divide the cauliflower salad among the plates, top each with a portion of the sliced steak and a generous dollop of tzatziki. Enjoy!

Macrina’s Lobster Rolls are the perfect bun for a summer seafood sandwich or grilled sausage with caramelized onions and peppers. No matter how you fill these rolls, the key is to butter and grill or sauté the sides to caramelize the bread and warm it through.

INGREDIENTS

Makes 4 sandwiches

6 cups water2 Tbsp kosher salt1¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes, divided1 lb frozen shrimp, 16–20 size, (deveined, shell on)8 oz fresh crab meat, cooked2 ribs celery, medium dice2 tsp capers, chopped3 tsp fresh tarragon, finely chopped3 tsp shallots, finely chopped½ cup mayonnaise2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice4 Macrina Lobster RollsButter

DIRECTIONS

In a medium saucepan, add the water, salt and 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil. Add the frozen shrimp and bring back to a boil, cooking for 3–4 minutes or until the shrimp are just cooked through.Strain the shrimp and transfer to a bowl. Quickly cover with ice cubes to stop the cooking process. Toss and let cool for 10 minutes.Peel the shrimp and coarsely chop them in ½-inch pieces.In a medium bowl, add the diced celery, capers, tarragon, shallots, remaining ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes, mayonnaise and lemon juice. Mix well. Add the crab and chopped shrimp. Stir to combine.Cut a pocket into the top of each Lobster Roll. Brush with butter and grill or pan sauté on both sides to caramelize the bread and warm it through. Put an equal portion of the shrimp and crab salad into the pocket of each roll. Serve with your favorite chips or green salad.Enjoy!

Summer Berry TartletsThis recipe—inspired by Dorie Greenspan—is an adaptation from the Summer Berry Galette recipe in our Seasons cookbook. The Pacific Northwest is a berry lover's dream in the summer. You can usually find tender freshly picked strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries in farmers markets throughout the season. These tartlets are an elegant showcase for the fruit. The sweet creaminess of the custard is the perfect complement to the tart berries. This recipe calls for strawberries and blueberries, but use whatever berries look best when you shop and adapt the recipe accordingly. Macrina’s Flaky Pie Dough disks, available frozen in our cafés (and convenient to have on hand in your freezer), save you a lot of time and simplify your work in the kitchen.-Leslie MackieIngredients:Serves 41 disc Macrina Flaky Pie Dough (available frozen at our cafés in 2-packs)10 strawberries, divided4 Tbsp strawberry or blueberry jam4 Tbsp breadcrumbs1½ cups fresh blueberries, divided2 eggs, divided3 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted⅓ cup sugar1 tsp vanilla extract1 Tbsp powdered sugarDirections:Thaw 1 disk of Macrina Flaky Pie Dough overnight in the refrigerator. Set the dough on a floured work surface and allow it to come to room temperature, about 20 minutes.Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Set aside.De-stem 8 strawberries and dice into ½-inch pieces. Set aside.Shape the pie dough into a square. Roll it out to 14 x 14-inches, it should be about ⅛-inch thick. Cut into four equal squares.Lift each dough square onto the prepared baking sheet, staggering them to form the tartlets. Place 1 Tbsp of jam in the center of each pastry square and spread to a 4-inch square. Top each with 1 Tbsp of breadcrumbs, ⅓ cup blueberries and a quarter of the diced strawberries.Make an egg wash by whisking 1 egg with 1 Tbsp water.Starting with one dough square, cut a 2-inch square from each corner. Fold the top flap over the fruit and brush with egg wash. Next, fold the right flap over the fruit, creating a corner, and brush that flap with egg wash. Repeat this process with the bottom and left sides so you have a square tartlet with an opening in the center. Brush all the dough with a final coat of egg wash. Repeat the entire process with the other 3 squares of dough. Refrigerate the tartlets for 30 minutes.Preheat the oven to 425°F.To prepare the custard, mix the melted butter, remaining egg, sugar and vanilla extract together.Place the chilled tartlets in the oven and bake for 20 minutes. Remove from the oven and pour the custard mix onto the top of each tartlet center. Let it drain into the tartlet before adding more to prevent it from spilling out. Bake until golden brown and the custard is set, another 10 to 15 minutes.Let cool for 30 minutes and garnish each with half a strawberry and a few blueberries. Sprinkle with powdered sugar. Enjoy at room temperature served with ice cream or frozen yogurt!Printable PDF here.

These muffins will please all of your chocolate cake-loving friends, even the most discerning gourmand. We modeled the cake on our ever-popular Mom’s Chocolate Cake, a mainstay at Macrina almost from day one. The raspberry and cream filling in the center is what makes them unforgettable. Many years ago, when we started selling cupcakes, Leslie scooped out the centers and filled them with custard, fruit or lemon curd. The simple twist became a Macrina tradition. After baking these cupcakes, you scoop out a small cavity in the center of each and add raspberry jam, fresh raspberries and raspberry swirl whipped cream. Then you top them with a chocolate ganache frosting, crystal sugar, and fresh raspberries. Half the delight is waiting for your guests to find the whipped cream and raspberry center. Our kit includes slightly oversized cupcake molds that give them a unique shape, setting them apart not only in taste but also in appearance from their store-bought cousins.  With the exception of whipping cream and fresh raspberries, the items you supply can be found in most kitchens. Our cupcake mix makes these elegant festive cupcakes easy to make. They’re suitable for any celebration—dinner parties, birthdays, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, or just a rainy day treat. Enjoy! 

This luscious layer cake is a lovely treat for spring holidays like Easter and Mother’s Day. It has flavor and beauty in spades. The whipped cream functions as a frosting, the toasted coconut adds texture and taste while the juicy berries add color and some tartness to the sweet cake. The cake is best enjoyed the day you make it, but it will keep for up to two days in the refrigerator.-Leslie MackieIngredients:Makes one 9-inch layer cake3 cups unsweetened shredded coconut1 cup coconut milk5 egg whites2 tsp almond extract, divided2 tsp vanilla extract, divided2¼ cups cake flour2 cups granulated sugar, divided1 Tbsp + 1 tsp baking powder1 tsp salt12 Tbsp (1½ sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature1 cup strawberries, sliced1 cup blueberries1 cup raspberries2 cups heavy creamDirections:Preheat oven to 325°F. Prepare a 9-inch x 3-inch springform cake pan by brushing it with oil and lining the bottom and sides with parchment paper.Spread the coconut evenly onto a rimmed baking sheet. Toast in the oven, tossing every 3 minutes until golden brown, about 5 to 10 minutes. Remove from the oven, place in a medium bowl and let cool.In a separate medium bowl, combine the wet ingredients: coconut milk, egg whites, 1 tsp almond extract and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Mix well and set aside.Sift the cake flour, 1¾ cup sugar, baking powder and salt into the bowl of a stand mixer. Add 1 cup of toasted coconut. Using the paddle attachment, mix at low speed for about 30 seconds. Cut the butter into ½-inch cubes. Scatter half the butter cubes over the surface of the flour mixture. Mix on low speed. After 1 minute, add the remaining butter cubes. Continue on low speed until the mixture has a texture that is coarse and crumbly, with no visible lumps of butter.Add half the wet ingredients and mix at medium speed for 30 seconds. Stop the mixer and scrape down the sides of the bowl with a rubber spatula. Add the remaining wet ingredients. Mix on medium speed for another 30 seconds.Pour the batter into the prepared springform pan. Bake on a center rack for about 1 hour or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool for 1 hour. Remove the cake from the pan and remove the parchment paper.If the cake is slightly domed, cut the raised part off so the top is flat. Then, using a good serrated knife, carefully cut the cake into two horizontal layers. They will be fragile, so handle them gently. Stack them on each other to keep them from drying out.Place the sliced strawberries, blueberries and raspberries in a bowl and stir them gently together. Set aside.In the bowl of a stand mixer, add the heavy cream, ¼ cup sugar, 1 tsp almond extract and 1 tsp vanilla extract. With the whip attachment, start mixing at low speed, then increase to medium and continue until medium-firm peaks form.To assemble, place the bottom layer on a serving dish. Spread 1½ cups of whipped cream evenly over the top. Lay three-quarters of the berries over the whipped cream in a single layer covering the entire top surface. Add the second cake layer and spread the remaining whipped cream over the top and sides of the cake and wipe any excess off the edge of your serving dish.Press the remaining toasted coconut to the edge of the cake (you can cover the top, too, if you like the look). Garnish the top with the remaining berries. Refrigerate the cake until you’re ready to serve it. Enjoy!

We make our challah bread in the European Jewish tradition. The braided loaf is enriched with egg, honey-sweetened and baked until the crust is firm and golden mahogany in color. The soft, tight crumb pulls apart easily.Our challah is a customer favorite for French toast or enjoyed with butter and jam. This recipe uses thick slices, pan-toasted in butter, for an open-faced tartine sandwich. The tender, lightly sweet bread adds a complementary texture and flavor to the combination of corned beef, Swiss cheese, whole-grain mustard and a fresh cabbage slaw with carrots and pears.-Leslie MackieIngredients:Serves 4¼ cup whole-grain mustard, divided2 Tbsp mayonnaise2½ tsp apple cider vinegar1½ tsp honey¼ tsp kosher salt¼ tsp cracked black pepper½ head green cabbage (medium-size)1 carrot, peeled1 Bartlett pear2 Tbsp Italian parsley, coarsely chopped1 loaf Macrina Challah Bread6 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided8 slices corned beef (approx. 6 oz)4 slices Swiss cheese (approx. 4 oz)8 eggsDirections:Preheat oven to 325°F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.In a medium bowl, place 1 Tbsp + 1 tsp whole-grain mustard, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar and honey. Whisk to combine. Set aside.Remove the tough root of the cabbage by cutting a V-shaped wedge from the base. Lay the half cabbage on the cut side and cut it into ⅛-inch slices. Using the medium side of a grater, grate the carrot. Cut the pear in half, remove the core and grate the pear with the same grater. Add the cabbage, carrot, pear, parsley, salt and black pepper to the dressing. Toss to combine. Set aside to marinate for 15 minutes.Cut the challah on the bias into eight 1-inch thick pieces.In a large sauté pan, melt 3 Tbsp butter. Over medium-high heat, sauté the challah slices on both sides for 1 to 2 minutes until just browning. Place on the lined baking sheet. Divide the remaining whole-grain mustard between the slices and spread evenly. Top each with a slice of corned beef. Cut the cheese slices in half and place a piece on each tartine.Bake the tartines for 3 to 5 minutes to melt the cheese. Place 2 tartines on each serving plate.In a nonstick pan over medium heat, melt 2 tsp butter. When the butter is sizzling, sauté 2 eggs at a time, flipping when whites are set and cooking to your desired preference (over- easy, over-medium or over-hard). Salt and pepper to taste. Finish cooking the remaining eggs, adding more butter as needed. Top each tartine with 1 egg. Divide the cabbage slaw evenly across the 8 tartines.You might consider serving these with a Guinness or your favorite craft beer in honor of the Irish. Happy St. Patrick’s Day!Printable PDF of this recipe here.

Have you heard? We recently started selling our Flaky Pie Dough at our cafés (order for pick-up two days in advance at ShopMacrinaBakery.com). The dough is perfect for many baked dishes, including double-crusted pie and savory quiche. The dough is frozen in discs and sold in a 2-pack. Each 12 oz disc rolls out to make a 10-inch tart or 9-inch pie shell.With our Flaky Pie Dough, this savory quiche is an easy showpiece to make for brunch or dinner. The combination of mixed mushrooms, kale and Gruyère with the buttery crust is one of our favorite winter combinations. As the seasons change, you can substitute different combinations of vegetables and cheese. With a good crust and a proper custard, you can't go wrong. Since they freeze and reheat well, you might consider baking two at once. Serve with a delicious mixed green salad or a cup of soup.-Leslie MackieIngredients:Makes one ten-inch tart1 disk Macrina Flaky Pie Dough (available frozen at our cafés)3 Tbsp olive oil2 cups sliced mushrooms (a mix of cremini, chanterelle or other favorites)2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and sliced into ½-inch strips3 garlic cloves, finely diced½ tsp kosher salt, divided¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes1 cup milk1 cup heavy cream2 egg yolks2 eggs2 cups Gruyère cheese (5 oz), gratedDirections:Thaw 1 disc of Macrina Flaky Pie Dough for 2 to 3 hours at room temperature. On a floured work surface, roll dough into a 14-inch circle, about ⅛-inch thick.Fold dough in half and lift onto a 10-inch fluted tart pan. Drop dough into pan and flatten at base of pan and edges. With the remaining overhang, fold into the pan to create an edge that stands a half-inch above the top of the pan. With your hand, smooth the crust edge to a consistent thickness. Chill for 30 minutes in freezer.Preheat oven to 375°F.Line the tart shell with parchment paper and fill it with baking weights or dried beans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the base appears dry. Remove the beans and let the shell cool.In a sauté pan over medium high heat, add the olive oil and sauté the mushrooms until golden brown, about 2 minutes. Add the sliced kale.Once the kale wilts, add the garlic, ¼ tsp salt and crushed red pepper flakes. When the garlic is golden, about 1 to 2 minutes, remove from heat. Let mix cool to room temperature in the pan.Make the custard: in a medium bowl, combine the milk, heavy cream, egg yolks, eggs and remaining ¼ tsp salt. Whisk to combine thoroughly.Reduce oven temperature to 325°F.Place the pre-baked tart shell on a rimmed baking sheet. Scatter the grated Gruyère cheese over the base of the shell. Add the sautéed mushroom and kale mix, then top with the custard.Place the quiche in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. When done, the custard will be set and have a slight golden-brown shine.Let cool for 45 minutes. Remove from the tart pan and serve. Enjoy!Printable PDF here.

Looking for a festive dish to serve at your holiday brunch? One of our favorites is this savory bread pudding. Its playful balance of sweet, tart and salty flavors make it a fun main dish. The bread soaks up the sweetened custard giving it a creamy texture. The tart cranberries, rich sausage, and salty goat cheese provide distinct flavor bursts. A blend of light and dark bread cubes provides a pleasant contrast of texture and taste—we’re partial to a mixture of our Organic Whole Wheat and Sour White or Casera loaves. Serve the bread pudding warm with a salad, some fruit, and maybe a selection of pastries for a memorable, fulfilling brunch.Ingredients:Serves 5-62 cups whole milk2 cups half and half½ cup brown sugar½ tsp cinnamon2 Tbsp orange zest, freshly grated1 Tbsp fresh sage, coarsely chopped3 egg yolks2 eggs4 cups oven-dried white bread cubes (about ¾ loaf) cut into 1-inch cubes4 cups oven-dried dark bread cubes (about ¾ loaf) cut into 1-inch cubes2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries6 oz pork sausage (about 4 links), fully cooked and cut into ¼-inch pieces6 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted6 oz chèvre (goat cheese)Directions:Preheat the oven to 325°F. Oil a 9-inch square baking pan.To prepare the custard, combine the milk, half and half, brown sugar, cinnamon, orange zest, sage, egg yolks and eggs in a medium bowl. Whisk until thoroughly blended and set aside.Place the bread cubes in a large bowl and add the cranberries, cooked sausage and melted butter. Pour the custard mixture over the top and toss until evenly distributed, then let sit for 30 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the custard. Transfer mixture to the prepared baking pan. Pour any excess custard mixture over the top, not quite filling the pan.Crumble the chèvre over the bread cubes then wrap the baking pan tightly with aluminum foil. Poke 2 small vent holes in opposite corners of the foil. Place the pan in the center of a large roasting pan, at least 2 inches deep, and place the roasting pan on the center rack of the oven. Pour hot water into the pan to reach halfway up the sides of the baking pan. This water bath will help the bread pudding cook evenly. Bake for 1¼ hours, then carefully remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes to brown the top and set the custard. Lift the pudding from the water bath and cool for 20 minutes on a wire rack before serving.Wrapped in plastic wrap, the bread pudding will last for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. (Wait for the pudding to cool completely before wrapping it.) To refresh the pudding, wrap it in foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes.

We make our Chocolate Babka just a few times a year: Rosh Hashanah, Christmas and New Year’s. The loaf is rich like brioche bread, with an added swirl of chocolate glaze and roasted pecans. It’s delicious simply toasted with butter, but for a special brunch, use it as a base for French toast and serve it with your favorite breakfast sausage, raspberries and sweetened whipped cream!-Leslie MackieIngredients:Serves 41 loaf Macrina Chocolate Pecan Babka1 cup whipping cream2 Tbsp granulated sugar2 tsp pure vanilla extract, divided3 eggs2½ cups whole milk1 Tbsp brown sugar¼ cup canola oil1 pint fresh raspberries2 Tbsp powdered sugarMaple syrup (optional)Directions:Remove the Chocolate Pecan Babka from its paper mold. Cut into 8 even slices. Set aside.In the bowl of a stand mixer, add the whipping cream, granulated sugar and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Whip for 2 to 3 minutes to form medium peaks and cool in the refrigerator until needed.Make the custard: In a medium bowl, add the eggs, milk, brown sugar and remaining vanilla extract. Whisk to combine.Submerge the sliced bread into the custard and soak for 1 minute, flipping them half way through so both sides are evenly coated. Place soaked slices on a plate and set aside.Place a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add just enough canola oil to coat the base of the pan. When the pan is hot (but not smoking), carefully transfer the soaked bread to the pan, fitting as many in as you can without crowding. Sauté for 2 minutes or until golden brown. Flip to cook evenly on both sides. Repeat this process until all 8 slices are cooked.Place 2 slices on each plate. Cut each slice on the bias and fan the four pieces across the plate. Garnish with sweetened whipped cream, fresh raspberries and a dusting of sifted powdered sugar. If you choose, serve with warm maple syrup (it’s divine). Enjoy!

Printable PDF here.

Our Flaky Pie Dough is the most frequently prepared recipe in our pastry department—and has been since the day we opened our doors in Belltown in 1993! The dough is perfect for so many kinds of baking, from savory quiche to double-crusted pies to classic tarts.Now, for the first time, we are selling our Flaky Pie Dough in our cafés. The dough is frozen in discs and sold in a two-pack. Each 12 oz. disc rolls out to make a ten-inch tart or a nine-inch pie shell. Or you can use the two discs together to create a double-crusted pie.

Your imagination is the limit for what you can make with our Flaky Pie Dough. To get you started, we’ve included three inspiring suggestions and one of our favorite new recipes with an accompanying video of Leslie showing you how to make it.

Stop by one of our cafés and grab a few of these. When inspiration strikes, you’ll appreciate the time-saving benefits of having these at the ready.Banana Nutella Hand Pies: With our pie dough, simple hand-pies are as easy to make as the filling inside. Start with the mouthwatering combination of bananas and Nutella (what could be easier?) and work your way up through your favorite sweet and savory combinations. Simply roll the dough out and cut 5-inch circles. Add your filling, fold the dough over, and crimp the edges. Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes until the crust is golden brown.

Savory Galette with Butternut squash, Roasted Pear and Gorgonzola: Shortly after opening, Leslie introduced savory free-form folded tarts or galettes, and they quickly became customer favorites. This galette is a seasonal adaptation of the one on page 203 of our first cookbook. With the pie dough already made, it’s easy to turn out an elegant lunch. Or cut the galette into small slices and serve it as an appetizer.Harvest Pie: This winter pie is one Leslie serves at her home alongside pumpkin pie at Thanksgiving. It’s also one of our most requested recipes. Our Flaky Pie Crust forms the bottom crust and the top is an almond streusel. You’ll find the recipe in our first cookbook on page 249.

Macrina’s Holiday Tart: With our frozen pie dough, this festive tart is a breeze to make. It’s both beautiful to look at and makes a refreshingly delicious end to a holiday meal. The tart cranberries find balance in the sweet filling and pecans add texture and flavor. Orange zest and a dash of brandy give it some zing. Find the video tutorial below!

[embed]https://youtu.be/nrnknwwMFpE[/embed]

Ingredients:Makes one 10” tart

One 12 oz. disc of Macrina Pie Dough

1 cup chopped pecans, roasted

3 eggs

⅔ cups light brown sugar

⅔ cups corn syrup

4 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted and cooled to room temperature

2 tsp orange zest

½ tsp salt

1 Tbsp brandy

1½ cups fresh cranberries

1 Tbsp powdered sugar

Directions:

Thaw 1 disc of Macrina pie dough for 2 to 3 hours at room temperature. On a floured work surface, roll dough into a 14-inch circle that’s about an eighth-inch thick.

Fold dough in half and lift on to a 10-inch fluted tart pan. Drop dough into pan and flatten at base of pan and edges. With the remaining overhang, fold into the pan to create an edge that stands a half-inch above the top of the pan. With your hand, smooth the crust edge to a consistent thickness. Chill for 30 minutes in freezer.

Preheat oven to 375°F.

Line the tart shell with parchment paper and fill it with baking weights or beans. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and the base appears dry. Remove the beans and let the shell cool.

Reduce oven temperature to 325°F.

Place the baked shell on a rimmed baking sheet. Add the pecans and cranberries to the tart shell and spread them so they’re evenly distributed.

In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs, brown sugar, corn syrup, melted butter, orange zest, salt and brandy together until well combined. Pour the mixture over the pecans and cranberries. Place the tart in the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. When done, the center of the tart will be set and golden brown.

Let cool for 30 minutes. Serve with sweetened whipped cream.

This is a version of the wonderful yogurt tart that we’ve served in our retail cafés for years. The creamy yogurt custard, sweetened with honey, rivals any rich pastry cream or sweet cream filling. The slight tartness of the yogurt harmonizes the fresh fruit and honey.- Leslie Mackie

Ingredients:Makes one 10-inch tart

1 batch Flaky Pie Dough3 whole eggs½ cup honey2 cups non-fat plain yogurt1 Tbsp pure vanilla extract½ cup + 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour8 fresh figs, sliced ½-inch thick2 pints fresh raspberries1 Tbsp turbinado sugar (raw sugar)2 Tbsp granulated sugar1 Tbsp water

Directions:

Make one batch of Flaky Pie Dough. Alternatively, ready-to- bake disks are available for purchase at your neighborhood Macrina. If you choose to make the Flaky Pie Dough recipe, divide the recipe in half to make two disks. Use one for this recipe and freeze the extra for later use. Keep the disk for this recipe refrigerated until you are ready to use it.

On a floured work surface, roll out the Flaky Pie Dough disk so that its diameter is just under 14 inches and it’s approximately ⅛-inch thick. Fold the dough circle in half and lift it onto the 10-inch tart pan, gently pressing it down and around the sides. Roll the overhanging dough into the pan creating a folded edge about ½ -inch above the pan. Press around the edge to get a uniform thickness for even baking. Chill for at least 30 minutes before baking.

Preheat oven to 350°F. Fill the chilled tart shell with a parchment paper liner and pie weights (or dried beans). Bake on the center rack for 35 to 45 minutes. When it’s finished, the sides should be golden brown. Remove the parchment paper and pie weights and let cool.In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, cream the eggs and honey together on medium speed for 3 to 5 minutes. Add the yogurt and vanilla and continue to mix for 1 minute.Sift the all-purpose flour onto a sheet of parchment paper. With the mixer on medium speed, slowly shake the flour into the custard mixture (lift two edges of the parchment sheet so it dips in the middle to transport it to the mixer), allowing it to incorporate without forming lumps. Once all the flour is added, scrape down the sides and the bottom of bowl to ensure all the flour has been incorporated.Pour the custard into the pre-baked tart shell. Top with two concentric circles of sliced figs and dot with a handful of raspberries. Sprinkle the turbinado sugar over the fruit.Reduce oven temperature to 325°F. Place the tart on a rimmed baking sheet and place on the center rack. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until the custard is set. Let cool for 1 hour.For the raspberry sauce, place the remaining raspberries in a medium saucepan. Add the granulated sugar and water and bring to a boil. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, slightly breaking up the berries. Let cool.The tart is best at room temperature topped with a spoonful of raspberry sauce. If needed, you can hold it overnight in the refrigerator and allow it come to room temperature before serving. Enjoy!

Printable PDF here.

Sometimes friends come to visit and leave more than just good memories—sometimes they leave recipes. And sometimes those recipes become family favorites. A friend from England gifted me this recipe, and when fresh berries are in season, these cottage cheese pancakes are always in my thoughts. The crisp golden brown edges, the light, tender interior and the savory flavor make them a divine weekend breakfast. Serve them with tart berries and a drizzle of maple syrup and soon you’ll find yourself passing the recipe on to a friend.- Leslie MackieIngredients:

Serves 6-8

6 Tbsp unsalted butter, divided1¼ cup all-purpose flour2 tsp baking powder2 Tbsp granulated sugar¼ tsp kosher salt3 eggs, separated1 cup cottage cheese1 cup whole milk1 tsp pure vanilla extract⅓ cup canola oil (or sunflower oil)2 pints fresh berries1 cup maple syrup

Directions:Melt 3 Tbsp of butter in a small saucepan. Set aside to cool.In a medium bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, sugar and salt. Set aside.Separate the eggs, putting the whites into a stand mixer bowl and the yolks into another medium bowl. Add the cottage cheese, milk and vanilla to the yolks and mix well.With a whisk attachment, use the stand mixer to whip the whites to a medium-soft texture.Fold the flour mixture into the yolk mixture in 2 additions. Add the melted butter. Fold in the whipped egg whites, also in 2 additions.Heat a cast iron pan or skillet over medium heat. Coat the bottom of the pan with oil and scoop in ¼ cup portions of the pancake batter, each spaced about 2 inches apart. Cook for 2 minutes (edges should be deep golden brown), flip and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes.Keep the finished pancakes warm in a preheated oven while you finish the remaining pancakes.Serve the pancakes topped with the remaining butter, fresh berries and maple syrup. Enjoy!

Turn your kitchen into a professional bakery with our new make-at-home kits.One silver lining of the quarantine is the perfect environment it has created for a surge in home cooking, bread making, and baking. Stores have been running short of flour and yeast. Newly minted bakers proudly fill their Instagram feeds with drool-worthy photos of crackly sourdough loaves, glistening muffins, and elegant cakes.But not everyone has the skills or time to produce pastry-chef quality loaves and pastries. A month ago, to help those who wanted to bake professional-grade loaves, we created a kit for an organic whole wheat loaf. The response has been overwhelmingly favorable. Some people make them with their kids; others have sent beautiful photos of their masterpieces. And many have requested kits for more items.So we’ve come up with three more make-at-home kits for some of our café favorites: Fresh Fruit Gluten-Free Muffins, Fresh Fruit Coffee Cake and Squash Harvest Bread.Each kit comes with baking molds (or muffin liners), with all dry ingredients pre-measured and ready to go, and easy-to-follow instructions. You choose your favorite seasonal fruits and supply common wet ingredients like milk, butter, and eggs.We love to see you in our cafés, but during these coronavirus times, we understand the desire to stay at home. The smell of your favorite breakfast treats baking might even drag your teenagers out of bed early. Enjoy!Fresh Fruit Gluten-Free Muffin KitWe started offering these in the cafés about five years ago, and even wheat lovers have become devotees. Our gluten-free dry mix takes the guesswork out of baking. Choose your favorite seasonal fruits, and we’ll help turn your kitchen into a high-end bakery.Fresh Fruit Coffee Cake KitThis coffee cake is one of our most requested recipes. The natural sweetness of the fruit permeates the cake and keeps it moist. Choose your favorite seasonal fruits, and we provide nearly everything else, including the baking molds.Squash Harvest Bread KitOur most popular breakfast bread has been on our menu since the day we opened in 1993. The list of ingredients is long, but our kit includes most of them pre-measured and ready to go. You provide the wet ingredients; we do the rest.The coronavirus has created the perfect environment for a surge in bread-baking. People suddenly have time around the house to do fiddly things they wouldn’t normally, like proofing yeast and monitoring rising dough. Some are looking for a fulfilling hobby, or for sustenance for their families, or just something to do with the home-schooled kids that’s not another video game. Measuring, kneading and shaping dough can be a balm for the anxiety that has accompanied the virus. And some people, faced with the prospect of the conveniences of modern life being upended, are feeling the need to be self-reliant, even in small ways.

When I started Macrina Bakery, I had every intention of making homemade fruit spread for our pastries but simply got too busy. Instead, I found an excellent freezer jam made from local berries. I’d been making jam and fruit spread ever since I was in my early twenties. My mother taught me how. Every year, in berry season, she’d get as many of those mouth-watering native strawberries, raspberries and blueberries and set about making jam, fruit spread, and conserves. Most of her jam was freezer jam, but I took to sealing it in jars since it keeps longer and you can store it in the larder.Now all these years later, I’m finally starting to make fruit spread in quantities large enough I can sell some commercially. The fruit spread business is called Project Barnstorm. Most of the spreads are made from fruit grown on my Vashon Island farm such as Concorde grapes, blackberries and Montgomery cherries. I’m also making apricot, raspberry and blueberry spreads with fruit from a local organic farm.Project Barnstorm is a celebration of the seasons. By picking the fruit at its peak, or buying it straight from some of the best local farmers, the fruit spreads capture the natural essence of the fruit. Because fruit spreads have less sugar than jam, the natural sweetness of the ripe fruit shines through.To get the right consistency, I make all the spreads in small batches and cook the fruit until I've reduced its water content enough that it will set with just a little pectin. The ratio of fruit to sugar in my spreads is much higher than commercial jams. A full, fresh fruit flavor is the result. A single spoonful in winter will bring you back to summer, if only for a moment. Fortunately, there is the rest of the jar to enjoy!The fruits spreads are delicious with our toasted artisan breads but are also a great accompaniment with cheese on our flatbread or crostini. My latest indulgence is a spoonful or two over ice cream in the evenings or yogurt in the morning.If you haven’t made fruit spreads before, take advantage of Washington’s bountiful blackberry crop starting in late July. Often you can find them, purple and bursting with juice, along roadsides throughout the area. Enjoy!~ LeslieLeslie’s Blackberry Jam Ingredients:8 canning jars and lids (6-8 oz in size)8 cups ripe blackberries¼ cup fresh lemon juice1½ cups sugar3 tsp Pectin (Pomona’s Universal Pectin)Directions:Fill a canning pot with water and bring it to a boil. Submerge jars and lids in boiling water to sterilize for 5 minutes. Remove and let dry at room temperature.Gently rinse off the blackberries and pat dry. In a medium saucepan place the berries and mash with a potato masher. Add the lemon juice and half the sugar (¾ cup). Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer for about 5 minutes. Skim any foam that might form on the surface of the mixture and discard. Combine the remaining sugar with the pectin and whisk into the simmering jam mixture. Simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes. Turn off heat.Taste the jam for sweetness. You can add a bit more sugar or lemon juice at this point to accommodate for the natural sweetness of your berries (they do vary).Bring the canning pot water up to a boil again. Ladle the hot jam into the sterilized jars, filling to ¼ inch of the top.Place the metal top and rim over the jar and tighten rim to seal. Gently place the covered jars into the boiling water. Be sure the water is covering the jar. Boil for 10 to 15 minutes to seal.Remove the jars from the boiling water and let cool at room temperature. Ensure that all the jars are tightly sealed. A good test is to remove the rings and lift the jar by its lid. If it releases, the seal is no good; refrigerate and use within a month (or freeze for up to 6 months). Well-sealed jars will hold at room temperature for 1 year.

One of my pinch-me-I’m-dreaming moments was in 1996 when the incomparable Julia Childs invited me to appear on the seminal food series Baking with Julia. A version of this fruit-filled pie was included in the Baking with Julia cookbook, edited by Dorie Greenspan. Over the years, we’ve tweaked this recipe, always wanting to improve on one of our all-time favorite pies. Throughout the seasons, you should play around with the fruit combinations, using what’s fresh at your local farmers market. This time of year, it’s hard to beat fresh nectarines with plump blueberries!- Leslie MackieIngredientsMakes one 9-inch pie

1 batch Macrina’s Flaky Pie Dough2 pints fresh blueberries, rinsed and air-dried4 ripe nectarines, rinsed and cut into ½-inch wedges¾ cup + 1 Tbsp granulated sugar, divided¼ cup light brown sugar1 tsp pure vanilla extract1 tsp fresh lemon zest4 Tbsp unbleached all-purpose flour1 Tbsp unsalted butter1 egg beaten with 1 tsp water for egg washDirections

Make one batch of Flaky Pie Dough. Keep discs refrigerated until you’re ready to use them.In a medium bowl, combine the blueberries, nectarine wedges, ¾ cup sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, lemon zest and flour. Toss to coat the fruit with the other ingredients.On a floured work surface, roll out the larger disc of Flaky Pie Dough so that its diameter is 14 inches and it’s approximately ⅛-inch thick. Fold the flattened disc in half and lift it onto your pie pan. Unfold the disc and gently press it down and around the sides. There should be a 1 to 1 ½-inch overhang for sealing and crimping at the finish.Pour the fruit filling into the raw pie shell. Use a spoon to press gently on the fruit smoothing the surface so the filling doesn’t have gaps that would settle when baking. Break up the 1 Tbsp of unsalted butter and dot the top of the filling. Paint the rim of the pie dough with egg wash.On a floured work surface, roll out the smaller disc of Flaky Pie Dough so that its diameter is just under 10 inches and it’s approximately ⅛-inch thick. While it’s flat, cut vents in the disc in a decorative design. We often cut two 2-inch slits (across from each other) and four 1-inch slits to the left and right of the larger slits. Be creative; the main thing is to have steam vents so the crust doesn’t balloon.Gently fold the disc in half and lift it onto the pie. Unfold it and match the perimeter to the egg-washed rim of the bottom dough. Brush the top of the pie with egg wash, then fold the lower dough’s overhang up around the entire pie.Once it’s sealed, crimp the edge with a decorative design. You can flatten and use fork tongs for design or use your fingertips to form a waving edge. Again, be creative. Brush the crimped edge with egg wash and sprinkle 1 Tbsp sugar over the top of the pie. Refrigerate the pie for 30 minutes before baking.Position a rack in the middle of the oven and preheat it to 400°F.Place the chilled pie on a rimmed baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F and bake for another 40 to 45 minutes. The top crust should be golden brown with bubbling fruit juices visible.Let the pie cool for 90 minutes before serving. Serve it with your favorite ice cream or sweetened whipped cream.

Apricots are the first stone fruit of the season. Their tartness balances well with caramelized brown sugar and butter, enhanced with the sweet bite of Heritage Distillery’s Brown Sugar Bourbon (or similar). This delicate cake has the crunch of roasted almonds, the earthiness of buckwheat flour and the joy of juicy apricots.IngredientsMakes one 9-inch cake¾ cup whole almonds16 Tbsp unsalted butter (2 sticks), room temperature, divided1¾ cup light brown sugar, divided4 tsp Heritage Distillery Brown Sugar Bourbon, divided (or other bourbon)½ tsp pure vanilla extract7 fresh apricots, halved and pits removed1 ¼ cup unbleached all-purpose flour½ cup buckwheat flour½ tsp baking powder½ tsp baking soda½ tsp salt⅓ cup granulated sugar3 eggs½ tsp almond extract1 cup low-fat buttermilkDirections

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Trace the outline of a 9-inch round cake pan on a sheet of parchment and cut a ring one half-inch larger than your marking. Cut 2-inch strips of parchment to line the sides. Lightly brush oil on the base and sides of the cake pan. Place the parchment strips onto the oiled sides, then insert the parchment circle and press the overlapping paper flush against the edge. Set aside.Place the almonds on a rimmed baking sheet and roast for 10 minutes. Let cool for 15 minutes, then pulse in a food processor to a medium-fine texture.In a small saucepan, slowly melt 4 Tbsp butter. Add ½ cup brown sugar, 2 tsp Brown Sugar Bourbon and vanilla. Whisk it all together, then pour it into the lined cake pan. Use a spatula to spread the sugar mixture evenly over the base of the pan. Sprinkle the ground almonds over the sugar mixture, then place the apricot halves, cut side down, around the edge of the pan. For the center circle, cut the apricots into quarters and place in a spiral to create a flower-like design.In a medium bowl, sift the all-purpose and buckwheat flours, baking powder, baking soda and salt.In the bowl of a stand mixer, place the remaining 12 Tbsp butter, ¾ cup of brown sugar and the granulated sugar. Using a paddle attachment, cream the mixture on medium speed for 5 to 8 minutes, or until the mixture is light and pale in texture.Add the eggs one at a time, waiting until each is incorporated before adding the next. Then add the remaining bourbon and almond extract and mix for 30 seconds to evenly distribute. Scrape the bowl frequently with a spatula to ensure everything is mixed in.Remove the bowl from the stand mixer. Stirring by hand with a spatula, add a third of the flour mixture and a third of the buttermilk. Continue alternating until the flour has absorbed the buttermilk. Do not overmix.Pour the batter over the apricots and level with a spatula. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.Let cool for 20 minutes. To serve, cover pan with the plate you want to present it on and invert. Carefully lift the cake pan and remove the parchment paper. It’s best to let it cool for another 20 minutes and serve the cake while it’s still slightly warm.Enjoy with your favorite vanilla ice cream or sweetened whipped cream.

Many of us have been spending a lot more time at home lately. Some of us are looking to distract and engage in crafts to take breaks from the anxiety of the outside world.Kneading and baking homemade bread is one way. It is tactile, rhythmic, and delivers great rewards along with its calming properties. If you’ve already started exploring baking bread, how about taking your bread to the next level by making your own natural starter? You may not keep the starter up forever, but it will make some of the best homemade loaves you’ve ever tasted.Of course, you can make bread using a packet of dried yeast, but harnessing the power of a natural starter is a transformative experience. In fact, it was a natural starter that helped transform Macrina from a dream into bakery. No exaggeration. In 1991, Leslie Mackie was preparing for her annual harvest party, an autumn gathering of food lovers in which everyone brought food made from their gardens. Leslie decided she’d bake bread for the event with a natural starter made from grapes grown in her garden. She crushed the plump red grapes and added them to a mix of flour and water. After several days of love and regular feeding, the starter was alive and kicking. The loaf that she developed for that party was a hit and ultimately became our house bread, Macrina Casera. Now, more than 25 years later, we are still feeding that same starter every day and baking hundreds of loaves. Casera’s mild sour flavor is derivative of those grapes, that fortuitous backyard fermentation.It was this loaf that helped Leslie decide to open Macrina Bakery in 1993 and the same loaf that put Macrina on the regional map in 1994 when the Casera won second place in a Sunset Magazine sourdough competition.We now have several other starters that we use for various breads, like the starter we developed from grapes from Hightower Cellars Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon that we use in our Pane Francese. When we were collaborating with PCC on a whole wheat baguette, Scott Owen, PCC Markets Grocery Merchandiser, said, “Macrina’s collection of sourdough starters is incredible.” We like to think so and carefully feed and nurture them daily to keep them vigorous—they’re the heart of our naturally-leavened breads.There are many ways to make a natural starter. Here’s our favorite way:Start with fresh grapes. Discard any unfavorable grapes. Wash to remove any debris. Weigh out 1½ lbs and wrap them in cheesecloth.Weigh out 2 lbs of all-purpose flour and 3 lbs water at 75°F. Combine the water and flour and mix until smooth.Squeeze the wrapped grapes over the bowl to release their juice into the flour mixture. Submerge the grape sachet in the bowl. Let the bowl sit uncovered at room temperature for a full day. After 24 hours have elapsed, discard the grape sachet.Your starter will now have life. The natural yeasts from the grapes are doing their work. Stir the starter at least once a day for a few days until you see bubbles on the surface. Once this happens, you need to begin feeding it. Mix another 2 lbs of flour and 3 lbs of water together and then add it to your starter. Mix well and allow it to sit out another full day.You should have a vigorous starter. Choose a recipe for naturally leavened bread (you can find the recipe for our Macrina Casera in the Macrina Bakery and Café Cookbook) and taste the magic you’ve created!From this point on, you’ll need to feed your starter like a pet. Feed it with a mix of equal parts flour and water. Hopefully, you’ll be using it frequently, so it’s easy to remember. If the starter gets too large, discard half of it. If liquid begins gathering on top, you can move it into the refrigerator to slow the fermentation.Enjoy! 

This simple chocolate cake is my favorite. The base layers are our moist Mom’s Chocolate Cake. The right balance of espresso and chocolate make the mocha mousse unforgettable, and the dark chocolate ganache adds flavor and elegance. Garnish it with raspberries or chocolate shavings and you’ll have a beautiful homemade cake to surprise your mother with at her celebration.IngredientsMakes one 9-inch cakeCake2 eggs¾ cup whole milk⅓ cup canola oil2 tsp pure vanilla extract1¾ cups granulated sugar1½ cups all-purpose flour¼ cup cocoa powder1 tsp baking soda¾ tsp salt¾ cup boiling water9-inch cardboard cake circleMocha Mousse¾ cup semisweet chocolate chips¼ cup brewed espresso (or very strong coffee)4 Tbsp unsalted butter2 cups whipping cream½ cup powdered sugar, siftedGanache Glaze2 cups whipping cream1 cup bittersweet chocolate chips1 cup semisweet chocolate chipsDirectionsCakePreheat the oven to 325°F. Brush the sides and bottom of a 9-inch round cake pan with canola oil. Line the base with a parchment circle. Dust the oiled edges with flour to prevent sticking.In a medium bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, canola oil and vanilla. Set aside.Sift the sugar, flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda and salt into a stand mixer bowl. Using the paddle attachment, mix on low speed for 1 minute to combine the ingredients. Add the egg mixture in three additions, scraping the bottom and sides of the bowl between. After the third addition, the mixture should be smooth.With the mixer on low speed, add the boiling water in a slow stream, taking approximately 30 seconds. Increase speed to medium and mix for an additional minute.Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan.Bake on the center rack for 30 to 35 minutes. When finished, the top will be set and the sides should pull slightly away from the edges. Let cool for 1 hour.To remove the cake, run a knife around the edge of the pan, then invert it gently onto a piece of parchment. After the cake has completely cooled, cut it horizontally into three equal layers. Set aside.Mocha MousseIn a medium saucepan, melt the semisweet chocolate chips, espresso and unsalted butter. Remove from the heat. Let cool to room temperature.In a stand mixer bowl, whip the cream to a soft peak using the whisk attachment. Add the sifted powdered sugar. Continue whipping until the mixture forms medium firm peaks.Remove the bowl. In three additions, fold in the cooled chocolate mixture. Set aside.Ganache GlazeIn a medium saucepan, bring the whipping cream to a boil. Turn off the heat and add the chocolate chips. Whisk to make a smooth glaze. Let cool to room temperature (it will thicken slightly).AssemblySprinkle a little sugar onto the 9-inch cake circle (or cardboard cut to size and covered with aluminum foil). Top with the first cake layer and spread with one third of the mousse. Repeat this process with the second layer. Then cover with the last layer of cake. Make sure the sides line up and the top layer is flat. Adjust if needed. Then spread the last third of the mousse evenly over the top and sides until it is smooth. Chill the cake for 30 minutes.Place a 9-inch cake pan upside down on a rimmed baking sheet. Center your chilled cake on the inverted cake pan. Pour half the ganache over the top of the cake so that it is covered evenly. Allow the excess to spill over the sides. Add remaining glaze to the sides and smooth for a nice presentation. The chilled cake should allow you to model the glaze to a smooth surface.Garnish as you like. Sugar sprinkles, flowers, fresh fruits, berries and chocolate shavings are some of our favorites. Enjoy! 

Our organic whole wheat bread kit makes two excellent homemade pan loaves, one for now, and one to share with a lucky neighbor. [embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xwYWsdBcr1U&feature=youtu.be[/embed]Do you love homemade bread but have always been too intimidated to try baking it yourself? Our organic whole wheat bread kit allows you to make amazingly easy, excellent bread at home without fancy equipment or any special bread-making skills. You’ll get all the smells, two flavorful, nicely-textured loaves, and the sweet reward of having made it yourself. For those of you with kids, this is also a great project to undertake with them.We chose this loaf for our first-ever bread making kit because it’s one of Leslie’s favorites to make at home. “To me, this pan loaf is the perfect comfort food,” Leslie says. “It smells so good while it’s baking, and the organic whole wheat flour we include gives the bread an excellent texture and flavor.”Our kit includes everything you need but a standard bread loaf pan, oil for brushing the pan, and honey (or agave or maple syrup). Our recipe has two options: A no-knead version, and a stand-mixer version. The no-knead method takes a little longer (an extra 90 minutes) but turns out a loaf equally as good as the one from the stand mixer. If you don’t have a mixer, this is the path for you—or if you just want to save yourself some extra cleanup.From start to finish, you’ll need to allow for three hours of combined proofing time (four and a half for the no-knead method) and about 45 minutes of baking time. The active time—mixing the dough and shaping the loaf—won’t account for more than 20 minutes of your time.If you’re tired of being confined to your home and want to try something new, this kit gives you the chance to turn out professional loaves without the stress. You’ll enjoy the rewards, one slice at a time, for days.