I’ve always loved the idea of an Aperitivo Hour that feels like a little escape — a moment to slow down, pour a beautiful drink, and snack on something simple, fun and delicious. One of my favorite cocktails is the Hemingway Daiquiri. Hemingway was known for many things — his writing, his travels, and definitely his love of a good, strong drink. The daiquiri named after him is not your typical sweet beach cocktail. It’s bright, tart, and crisp, with a subtle hint of fruit that doesn’t overpower. It has lime juice, a touch of grapefruit juice, a little maraschino liqueur for depth, and just enough rum to give it a little punch. It’s the kind of drink that...
Sunday mornings—there’s something special about them. A clean kitchen, soft jazz playing in the background, and the warm glow of a candle flickering on the counter. I’ve never considered myself a baker, but every few Sundays, I’ve started a small ritual: waking up early to bake something sweet (and easy) for my family. There’s something therapeutic about the process. It’s my quiet time; a moment of peace and connection, filled with the anticipation of warm and comforting fresh treats from the oven. I have actually made this a few times and I love it. Eyeswoon’s Apple Cognac-Cake Eyeswoon Apple-Cognac Cake - Recipe from her Cookbook INGREDIENTS 1 cup all-purpose flour ¾ teaspoon ground cardamom ¾ teaspoon baking powder ¼ teaspoon...
It’s usually aperitivo hour, but today I’m making an Italian sundae instead! The weather’s so hot, and I had all the ingredients at home and it’s the perfect treat to pause and cool down. Trader Joe’s came out with a new Italian gelato this summer, Pistachio and Fior di Latte. I love it, but I’ll be using only the Fior di Latte for my sundae. Start with a scoop of gelato, a scoop of Nutella (more or less depending on your preference), add a couple more scoops of the Fior di Latte, and finish it off with toasted chopped or crushed hazelnuts and Nocciolini, tiny, crispy hazelnut meringues from Italy (You can find this at Trader Joe’s). Sit by the pool...
I’ve been eyeing that bottle of Limoncello sitting in my kitchen all summer, wondering what to do with it. The other day, while wandering through Trader Joe’s, I spotted a Limoncello Spritz in a can—it definitely caught my attention. I’d never had one before, and that’s when it hit me: why not make it myself at home with what I already have? It turned out so fun, refreshing, and honestly… dangerously easy to drink! Just build it all in a glass over ice and enjoy! Mocktail Version: If you want to skip the alcohol, a cold glass of San Pellegrino Limonata served over ice with fresh mint and lemon slices is equally refreshing. To make it feel like a proper Aperitivo Hour, I...
What are we chatting up with friends? Our latest favorite treat for girls’ night in or a cozy dinner party—conversation cards! They’re the perfect way to break the ice and spark unexpected conversations that keep the night lively and full of great moments. I keep mine by our little bar, and it’s always a hit while I mix up cocktails and set out some snacks. I also used it over the holiday season over Thanksgiving dinner! It’s such a simple yet fun way to bring everyone together. Definitely a must for the next gathering with family or friends! What are we eating & drinking together? A truly divine pairing: Avaline organic red wine and Trader Joe’s Portuguese donuts with chocolate...
