Would you like a Madeleine?

Carmen & Claudia eating cake...

It was a Friday night of good conversation, laughs, great food & desserts with friends.

Claudia's BBQ was not to happen due to the anticipation of rain. But, Claudia is a great cook and she had made delicious appetizers. There was lots of champagne and wine to go around.

It was a girl's night out. Lisa, Melissa, Amanda, Claudia and I shared lots of stories and laughs.

Claudia's hubby Bob and his friend Doug joined us later in the evening.

For the party, I baked Coconut Madeleines and Lemon Glazed Madeleines. See the recipes below for the Madeleines. I also baked a Poundcake (posted in an earlier blog).

I have to say, I ate quite a few of the Lemon Glazed Madeleines...can't just have one!!

MADELEINES
(pronounced mahd lehnz)
Madeleines are little cakelike cookies baked in a special mold that give them a delicate shell shape.






TIP: To have the little cakes come out of the pan easily,
apply CAKE RELEASE by Wilton with a pastry brush to the pan.

The little cakes will come tumbling out of the pan with much success.
After the cakes are placed on a parchment covered pan, you can adorn the cakes with a sprinkling of confectioners sugar or dip them in a lemon glaze.

Here are two recipes for you to enjoy!


Coconut Madeleines
~ by Barefoot Contessa (Ina Garten)












Lemon Glazed Madeleines

~ by David Lebovitz







Doug, Claudia, Melissa, Bob (talking), Lisa & Amanda sharing stories...I'm behind the camera taking the picture.

Amanda (white top), Lisa (blue top), Melissa (pink top)

Carmen & Claudia...pals forever!

Love & Peace,
Carmen

APRIL 22, 2009-IT'S ALL ABOUT BOBBY FLAY

On April 22, 2009 (Wednesday), my day was totally dedicated to Bobby Flay.
First, I drove to Bobby’s Burger Palace in Eatontown, New Jersey for lunch.
The restaurant is located in Monmouth Mall.
I enjoyed the “Blue Burger” with Sweet Potato Fries. It was fantastic!

I then headed northbound to Bobby’s book signing at William Sonoma in Short Hills Mall.

I arrived around 2:30pm for a 5pm book signing.

I made new friends while waiting on line…we had a great time!

William Sonoma employees passed out miniature burgers with garlic pesto to all.

When it was finally my turn to get my book signed by Bobby, I gave him a big hug and I even got a photo with him…I am sooo happy!!

I took a video so that you can see Bobby in action. (go to end of post)

It was a fabulous day...I will always remember it!

Peace,

Carmen