Sweet Treats Saturday: Bread Pudding

Carbs are one of the main food groups in our house, which leads to very few opportunities to use ‘day old bread’.  This past weekend, however, we had a bag of dinner rolls that was begging to be made into bread pudding.  I’ve always wanted to make it, so this presented the perfect opportunity.  I tweaked a few recipes to make this, but here’s the final, delicious recipe:

6 slices day old bread (I used six dinner rolls)

2 tbsp butter

1 tsp nutmeg

1 tsp cinnamon

2 cups of milk

3 eggs

1 tsp vanilla

1/2 cup sugar

1/4 cup brown sugar

8x8 baking pan

350 for 45 minutes

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  Butter an 8x8 or equivalent baking pan.  Tear up pieces of day old bread into baking pan.  Melt the butter and drizzle over the bread pieces.  Sprinkle nutmeg and cinnamon over the bread and butter.

In a separate bowl, mix milk, eggs, vanilla, and sugars.  Pour mixture into baking pan and gently press down on the bread so that it absorbs the mixture.

Bake in preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes.  The middle of the bread pudding should bounce back when poked.

This came out great! Our friends were raving over it so now I need to find an excuse to keep day old bread around the house.

Amy Butler Frenchy Bag

This bag was a fun and easy accessory piece.  I used Amy Butler’s Frenchy Bag pattern and one of her floral prints for the exterior fabric.  The interior fabric was a coordinating green pattern that I found at my local fabric store.

I followed the pattern exactly for the shoulder sling length.  The only thing I would change would be the interior pockets.  They’re pretty large so once something goes in the bag, it’s pretty easy to get lost in there.

I love the snap closure and the bag is the perfect size.  I was able to complete it in one night with a few hours of sewing.

Owl Mask

The owl costume is complete, but for now you get a peek at the final mask.  I’ll be wearing the complete costume this weekend at our first Halloween party of the season.

Extreme closeup

The mask has gone in various different directions.  Initially I was planning a feather covered mask with a basic ‘mardi gras’ frame.  After scouring the internet for more ideas and inspiration, I was most inspired by the recent Cirque du Soleil mask link combined with the idea of thick rimmed glasses.  My cape itself is all ‘feathers’ so I decided to skip the actual feathers and maybe use them as accents elsewhere.

First round of materials

Construction of the mask was very simple.  The materials I used included:

Sheet of felt

Various lace trims - depending on your design, less than a yard of each

Ribbon trim

Ribbon to attach the mask

Second round of materials.  All of the lace is black, it just looks purple in the light.

I wanted a sturdy mask so I folded the felt in half before cutting it.  Then I positioned it over my face making note of where I wanted to cut and what shape I wanted.  I outlined the idea of my shape, but when it came time to cut, I did so slowly, trimming only when I was sure it was still within the range.  I didn’t want to risk taking off too much, though depending on your trim, it can help cover any mistakes.  

When I had the mask in the right shape, I attached the ribbon to tie the mask and I began playing with various ways of layering the lace over the top of the felt.  Once I was satisfied, it was time to hand stitch.  This method made it very easy to change the design as I saw the mask come together.

In the end, I only used two types of trim.  The mask is very comfortable, unlike the original mardi gras mask.  I can’t wait to see the costume as a whole this weekend!

Simon and the sewing machine

A silly post for hump day.

My cat has been keeping me company during my long hours in the craft studio, and one of his favorite spots is directly on the sewing machine table.  This can be a problem, but he seems to keep to his corner out of my way.

I noticed he particularly likes it when I’m running the sewing machine and if I stop for too long he’ll turn and yell at me.  Here’s a little snippet:

She wore an itsy bitsy, teenie weenie...

Well, it’s not a bikini, but it is a polka dot dress!  I was inspired by a dress on display at my local craft shop.  I loved the fabric and had actually intended it for another project, when I remembered that I had an Amy Butler dress that I’d been wanting to complete.  

The pattern was incredibly easy! It was so fast to put together, with the only problem I encountered being that I didn’t realize it was supposed to have lining.  Somehow I missed that part when purchasing the fabric, cutting the patterns, and reading the directions.  Luckily the fabric I used was a nice cotton that wasn’t too thin.  I had my heart set on completing the dress so I decided to omit the lining.  I think the seams would have been nicer with it, but the brown thread complemented the design.  

I’m also not a huge fan of fitted short sleeves so I tried it on without the bias edge... and really liked the look.  So I left them out.  

Overall I’m extremely pleased with this dress and pattern.  I can definitely see myself using the pattern again with some other fun combinations, or even in a solid.  I love the vintage, classic look of the dress.  

Lovely image of the trash can behind me.  Apparently it was too early to notice such details.  Oh, and it definitely needs to be pressed.

The finishing touch? A green flower pin that I've had sitting in my jewelry box for years.  I bring it out occasionally but I think it's found a new home on this dress.

What's Up Cupcake News!

It's official! I was finally able to login to my previous 'What's Up Cupcake' blog address. What does this mean? I'm transferring this blog to the web address:
http://whatsupcupcake.blogspot.com

Which can also be found by going to:
http://www.whatsupcupcakeblog.com

Yup, I decided to get my own domain name for the blog. It just makes things so much simpler!Either of the above links will take you to the blog.  I'm going to begin fading out my old blog address.

So, time to update your subscriptions and RSS Feeds... and please, spread the word about the What's Up Cupcake blog! I worked on a lot of crafty projects this past weekend which means that lots of fun posts are coming soon!

Sweet Treats Saturday: Caramel Apple Bread

This recipe is kind of cheating. I’ll admit, it’s not completely from scratch, but it’s one of my favorite quick recipes that I make during autumn.  It’s a great twist on a traditional harvest bread recipe and it’s so easy to do.

I started doing this variation years ago when I worked retail at Williams-Sonoma.  They have an apple bread recipe that they used to release seasonally (I think it’s still on a seasonal basis, though it might be an everyday item at this point).  Luckily, you can purchase apple bread mix at many grocery stores, so you don’t have to drop big bucks for this simple treat.  I picked up my mix from Trader Joe’s.

Here’s how it works:

• Prep the batter according to the directions on the mix packet.  Unwrap individual caramels. You will probably only need 8-10 piece depending on how large your loaf pan is.

• Butter or spray your baking pan.  Don’t skip this step as any caramel that touches the pan will stick, so if it is well sprayed, then you should have no worries when it comes time to release the loaf.
• Pour the batter into the pan.  Place caramel pieces throughout the bread.  Do not push them down too far as they will sink/melt during the baking process.  You can coat them in flour, but I find that just gently pressing them into the batter eliminates this step.  Don’t place them too close together as you’ll end up with a big melted mess in the middle of your loaf.

• Bake the bread as directed on the packet.  When checking for doneness, make sure you’re not inserting a toothpick into a caramel piece as you won’t get a proper idea of doneness.

I find this is best serves warm when the caramel is still gooey, but it is wonderful as leftovers as well.  I store it in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days… if it lasts that long.

Halloween masks and makeup

Just in time for the finishing touches of my owl costume, Cirque du Soleil posted some videos on YouTube of some Halloween mask and makeup ideas inspired by their shows.  I'm in love with the fourth video, the Zumanity mask, to coordinate with my owl costume and may have to take some aspects when finishing my mask and doing my makeup.

Zumanity Mask

Even if you're not looking for a mask idea for Halloween, the videos and the techniques they use are pretty incredible.  You can also buy the masks online from their website.  They're a bit pricey but for the avid Cirque fan, they could be nice to have.

Rainy days heat wave!

I have been determined to finish my Rainy Days coat this week and of course, a random heat wave hits the Bay Area.  Regardless, I finally decided how to proceed with my jacket and the plan of attack!  I was torn between buttons, a zipper, or just a tie closure.  I haven’t tackled buttons before and by the time I had started thinking about the closure, I realized I had already sealed the ‘button’ area and would have to do a bit of backtracking to put them in.  I like the ease of zippers, especially on a rainy day, so that route won the closure contest.

Pre-pocket.

Putting in the zipper was easy, but it was definitely the point where I needed to tape my presser foot.  The oil cloth was too sticky alone, but just a small piece of invisible tape on the presser foot worked wonders. 

I had also decided to do the pleated pocket. It comes with a top flap, but I actually liked the look without it.  I don’t know if it’s because that part of the pattern was hard to match up but I thought it looked fine without the top.  I did make it and put it to the side in case I decide that the functionality will be more important... I never really use pockets on my rain coats though I do like to have them.  I also made the sash but didn't think the coat needed it with the zipper.  Again, may change my mind, but for now decided to do with out.

So now, I’m keeping my fingers crossed for some rain.  Even a light drizzle would be nice; anything that would give me an excuse to go out in my new rain coat!

FO: Colette Crepe Dress

It’s official! I’ve finished my first sewn garment that I made 100% by myself.  I haven’t had a chance to get out and pick up the closing pieces to my raincoat but luckily I had the new Colette Crepe wrap dress pattern that required no closures or any other items that I didn’t have handy.  All that was needed was the fabric and interfacing. 

Ta-da!

Back view

This dress was rated at the beginner level which I thought was appropriate since I had technically only ever made clothing pieces with the help of friends.  The pattern came with a short instruction ‘book’ that walked me through the creation process step-by-step.  

Close up of the fabric.

I found this fun fabric at my local fabric and yarn store, Bobbin’s Nest.  When I buy clothes for myself, I tend to go for basics and solid colors, so I decided this dress should be something fun that I wouldn’t be able to pick up just anywhere.  To be a little safe still, I chose the accent ribbon in black.

The top is almost complete.  Wallace approves.

I followed the pattern exactly with one minor modification.  The pattern comes with two neckline versions.  Version 1 is the pattern I followed: a rounded neckline.  Version 2 had a more shaped neckline but was also the version that had a contrasting sash.  I decided to go with Version 1 but swap in the different colored sash.

Attaching the top to the skirt.

The pattern was extremely easy to follow.  The dress fits great and I think one of my favorite features is the pockets.  I also liked the final length, so I hemmed it as is, but I may eventually shorten it a bit. 

Tobey guards the sewing machine.

As usual, my cats decided to help continuously through the process.  Once I made it to the final steps, it wasn’t a problem, but between their naps on the fabric, or grooming on my sewing table, we had a few battles.  In the end, I think they can claim victory.

Simon conducts quality control.

Super Cute

I think I'm going to have to add this cutie to my 'to do' list: Tiny Owl Knits: Cupcake Kitten Hat

Sweet Treats Saturday: Salted Toffee Chocolate Squares

A little break from the fruit trend. Now it’s time for some serious sweets!  I was craving chocolate this week, when my daily Martha Stewart recipe popped up in my inbox.  Salted Toffee Chocolate Squares? Yes, please!  

Graham crackers covered with toffee and almonds. Before baking.

The recipe was incredibly simple.  I followed it almost exactly with the only variations being because of my pan size.  I was able to fit 14 graham crackers on my sheet pan and there was still a little space around the edge.  When I make them again (which I definitely will), I’ll use a slightly smaller sheet pan.  

Butter and sugar mixture covering the previous layer. After being in the oven for 10 minutes.

The flavor was great! My husband couldn’t stop raving about it.  The final product wasn’t the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen, but taste definitely made up for that.  I think if I used the smaller sheet pan the toppings would have filled up more evenly across the surface.

Final product minus a few... test samples... mmmm...

Regardless, I highly recommend it.  You can get the recipe below, or directly from the source at Martha Stewart.

Salted Toffee Chocolate Squares

From: Martha Stewart.com

Ingredients

• 13 graham crackers

• 1 bag (8 ounces) toffee bits

• 1 1/2 cups coarsely chopped toasted natural almonds

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter

• 3/4 cup (4 ounces) bittersweet chocolate, chopped, or chocolate chips

• 3/4 teaspoon coarse salt

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil. Place graham crackers in a single layer on sheet, edges touching. Sprinkle toffee bits and almonds over graham crackers.

2. In a small saucepan, bring sugar and butter to a boil over medium-high. Reduce heat and cook at a rapid simmer, swirling pan occasionally, until mixture is syrupy, 2 minutes. Immediately pour over graham crackers. Bake until sugar topping is bubbling, 12 minutes. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate and salt over graham crackers. With a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut into 2-inch squares. Let cool completely on sheet on a wire rack. (Store in an airtight container, up to 1 week.)

Enjoy!

Tiny Dancer

My Highland dance school does an annual fundraiser show each year with a small silent auction to help raise money for workshops and school costumes.  I wanted to make something to contribute to the auction this year, and found my new cross stitch addiction helpful in this regard.  I had a pattern for a Highland dancer in a blue kilt that I decided to try as my one or my ‘more advanced’ patterns.  The pattern was pretty easy, with the only tricky parts being the ‘tartan’ pattern in the kilt.

I really like how it turned out, and I think some of the kids from the school will really like it.  The blue Highland outfits seem pretty popular and I wanted to make something that the kids would be interested in.

After I finished this design, I finally was able to pick up a frame for the kilt hose cross stitch that I completed previously.  It's now proudly displayed in my craft room.

Round and round and round we go...

I’ve been behind in my blogging. It seems like whenever you take a vacation, you return needing another one as you’ve fallen so far behind.  Regardless, I’m now back on track and should have some fun updates over the next few days.

Autumn is probably my favorite season.  As much as I love the warmth of Summer, I love the cool weather and the colors of nature that Fall brings.  It’s the start of the holiday season where for a few months, it seems that there is always something happening.

With that cool weather, comes the perfect time for fall hats!  Living in sunny Northern California, I don’t have to worry so much about snow, so a lighter hat is perfect for stepping outside.  My favorite (and what I feel is the most flattering for my head) are the slouchy beret shapes.  An easy knitting pattern that has been a go-to for me is the Star Crossed Slouchy Beret.  It’s easy and free on Ravelry.  

I could have this hat in every color! My favorite is red, but I think I’m going to try a cream color next.  I’ve made a few but they’ve always been snatched up for gifts.  And really, it’s suitable for beginners. As long as you have a basic understanding of cabling and knitting in the round, you can do it.  I think it was my second of each of those techniques and I only had a few hiccups… nothing that my LYS couldn’t help with.

Technical details: I used Malabrigo Merino Yarn Worsted in Ravelry Red, size 11 circulars.

Tweet tweet

Check out this cute fabric I picked up at JoAnn's.  It was on sale and there wasn't much left, so I picked it up for some possible pajama pants.

And on the subject of 'tweeting', follow me on Twitter: whatsupcupcake

Won't you be my neighbor?

We have a new resident at our house.

This little hummingbird has been sleeping in a tree in our side yard for at least the last week... maybe longer but we only just noticed the him recently.  Isn't he cute?

Sweet Treats Saturday: Apple Crisp

Our backyard has a huge apple tree that always seems to be dropping its bounty on the floor.  Between the squirrels and my dog, we are constantly dodging apples scattered over the ground.  I decided to test out an apple crisp recipe that a coworker made a few years ago.

After I was able to scrounge up the few remaining apples that were physically on the tree, I went to work making this super simple, but delicious recipe.

Easy Apple Crisp

4 Medium green apples (peeled and cubed)

1/2 cup of water

1 tsp cinnamon

3/4 cup flour

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup butter

Preheat over to 350 degrees.

Grease a baking dish.  Approximately 9x13 should do.  Spread diced, peeled apples on the bottom.  Pour water over apples and then sprinkle them with the cinnamon.

Time to get messy.  This is easiest using your hands.  I softened the butter slightly, then mixed it with the flour and sugar.  Sprinkle the crumbles over the top of the apples until it’s mostly covered.  

Bake in oven until golden brown. About 1 1/2 hours.

Best served warm with ice cream, but it’s pretty much delicious anytime!

Lady Grey's Sew Along Update: Oilcloth

I followed the same steps as the lining and put together the oilcloth exterior of the raincoat.  I haven't had to use scotch tape on the presser foot yet as I've been working with the interior cloth, but I can tell I'll definitely need it when starting to hem everything and attach it all together.

In order to put together the oilcloth pieces without leaving holes from the pins, I used binder clips... it worked great!

After I attach the lining, I just need to add the pockets and and belt loops.  Oh... and button holes... but I'm nervous about that part.