December brings Christmas … and lots of goodies

IT’S DECEMBER – LET the Christmas entertaining begin! Well, who am I kidding? We had our first Christmas catering three weeks ago. It felt way too early, but for busy people, early is usually better.

Our team was lucky enough to be at the Lions Hall for An Affair to Remember last weekend. It was our first time attending that event, and it was great to see so many smiling faces. The night out was a well deserved break after a busy week in the shop. As I looked around the table, I was amazed at how much our little team has grown over the last few years – it takes a lot of people to make our business the success it is.

I always feel grateful to be surrounded by such amazing talent and personality.

In keeping with the season, our store now has a festive vibe. December is here, and the goodies will be rolling out just about everywhere you go. Perhaps these featuring some holiday staples – cranberries and, of course, chocolate – one will be on offer at your place.

Happy cooking!

Cranberry White Chocolate Petit Pots de Creme

13 oz milk 1/2 cup 35% cream 2 vanilla beans Or 2 tsp. of vanilla extract 1 egg, 3 egg yolks 4 oz sugar 1/2 cup white chocolate 1/4 cup fresh or frozen cranberries

Scald milk in a small pot with vanilla bean and seeds inside, do not boil.

Allow the vanilla paste to steep for 7 minutes.

Whisk egg yolks and sugar for about 2 minutes – it should be light yellow and fluffy.

Temper the egg mixture by adding the scalded cream in small increments, whisking all the time. Add chocolate, whisk in. Pour into ramekins or cups, leaving 1” from the top, add cranberries

Place in bain marie with the hot water running twothirds up the ramekins.

Cover with foil and place in oven at 300 F until middle is jiggly and the outside is firm.

Allow to cool and serve.