BCM: Brown Butter and Vanilla Bean Weekend Cake

I was very lucky to receive an advance copy of Baking Chez Moi.  I sat wide eyed turning pages looking at all of the deliciousness coming my way.  I was drawn over and over, however, to the first recipe in the book.  This recipe.

It is simple beyond simple to make.  The ingredients are few.  The equipment is minimal (no mixer necessary).  And the results are nothing short of fabulous.  

This is a cake with a tender crumb, a definite vanilla edge, and the slight nutty flavor of the brown butter.  

Doris suggests that you serve it the day after you make it to let the flavors meld.  If you can hold out that long, I recommend it as well.  


Or, if you're like The Boy, you just snag a bite before I can even finish my photograph.

This is a simple cake that lends itself to lots of different toppings.  It's the perfect base for fruit, chocolate ganache, whipped cream (all of the above), and if you let it get stale, it's delicious toasted with a small spread of butter.

TWD BCM: Granola Energy Bars

 I'm on vacation and didn't remember to blog among all of the packing and scrambling. The Boy and The Girl both decided these were worth making again. I used almonds, dried cranberries, and candied ginger. Even though I hate coconut, I used it.

I couldn't figure out how to add a photo on my phone, so take care of that when I return.

**I'm back!  And here are the photos.