2011 christmas dessert - pumpkin spice bundt cake

In a continuation of the Christmas cookies, I also made dessert for my family Christmas Eve potluck that we had. This will also be a quick post...I do apologize!

I was really glad that everyone enjoyed the Bundt cake, considering that most members of my family do not enjoy the taste or smell of cinnamon. (The spice isn't that strong in the cake. A lovely light aroma, really.) According to my aunt, she thinks cinnamon smells like...well, maybe I shouldn't write it here, because I honestly don't know where she got that idea. She's such a silly joker, all the time.

oreo cheesecake

What was one of the first things you've ever cooked or baked? Did it turn out the way you wanted it to? Did you get to share with your family and friends?

I started baking sometime during my last year in high school. The steady courtship of me and baking eventually blossomed into a fruitful love affair.

I remember my first major dessert was an Oreo cheesecake.

No, it wasn't for the sake of experimentation.

No, it wasn't for someone's birthday.

No, it wasn't for myself either.

the thanksgiving trio

Do you remember how you felt your first time doing something or going somewhere? Like your first day going into preschool/kindergarten. Or a first kiss. Or your first time going to Disneyland. Yeah, you know what I'm talking about.

This year was my first "official" Thanksgiving celebration. By official, I mean doing the whole cooking the turkey thing and making the stuffing and gravy and whatnot. And then everyone sitting down and eating together. Yes, in my more than 2 decades of existence, this was a first. Better late than never. Oh how excited I was; all that adrenaline pumping. like a kid with $5 standing in the candy aisle of the 99¢ store.

In all my excitement, I decided to make 3 pies...

Yes, THREE PIES. IN ONE DAY. This may not be a big deal for some of you out there, but I've never made a pie before. The crust always seemed like an elusive little thing; too fussy.

In all honesty, I intended to make the pies, or at least one, the night before. That way I could help out with the cooking of the main course and sides the next day. Procrastination sure is a tough habit to kick.

cheesecake-marbled brownies

It's been almost A YEAR [sad face status] that I've been on a hiatus from baking. I can't really recount how exactly it happened and whether it was a subconscious choice, but it sure feels good to be back in the kitchen. Honestly, I was actually afraid to stir up the flour again because I've been away for so long, and I wasn't sure whether my abilities have diminished from a lack of practice. Well, you've heard of that age old phrase "use it or lose it." I guess I just didn't want to find out.