The Culinary Life

A professional foodie at large

If you’re a longtime reader of this blog, then my ongoing battle with sugar isn’t news. My body really, truly hates refined sugar. It gives me headaches, joint pain, acne, mental fog, and a cornucopia of other unsavories dramas that I don’t really like to talk about. As someone who comes from a long line of sugar fiends — as well as being the girlfriend of a particularly avid sweets lover — sugar is an especially thing to avoid in my life.

You would think that after years of battling a sugar addiction, it would get easier to avoid. Not true. There are entire months where I’m good, and then I’ll spend a week on a Boogie Nights-esque sugar bender, leaving a trail of cookie crumbs and chocolate sprinkles in my wake. (Thankfully I have yet to wake up in the morning to find a layer of cocoa powder from under my nose) I’m good at avoiding sweets, but if there’s a dessert right there in front of my face, staring me down, my carefully cultivated self control shatters like the glassy top of a creme brûlée. I’ve even avoided going out to eat with those I know are likely to order a parade of desserts, because there are days I know I won’t be able to turn down a bite. And we all know what one bite turns into. [[Read more about Almost-Raw Chocolate Truffles Recipe]]

I’ve been eating a lot of macaroni and cheese lately. Between huge, heaping spoonfuls of real cheese, I’ve been pining for a less milk-heavy version that would appeal to my vegan friends. (and my former vegan self – yes, I was vegan many years ago!) But, vegan cheese leaves a lot to be desired. Career vegans, I know a lot of you are with me on that. [[Read more about this Vegan Macaroni and Cheese Recipe]]

Thumbnail image for Copycat Recipe: Stacks’ Granola Pancakes Recipe

Copycat Recipe: Stacks’ Granola Pancakes Recipe

April 13, 2012

These pancakes are super filling and addicting. The sweet nuttiness of the granola fills your senses with a wholeness that will exceed your greatest pancakes expectations.

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Thumbnail image for Apricot, Cherry, Cranberry and Cardamom Hot Cross Buns Recipe

Apricot, Cherry, Cranberry and Cardamom Hot Cross Buns Recipe

April 4, 2012

This apricot, cherry, cranberry and cardamom hot cross buns recipe is a twist on the traditional citrus-spice buns you see in bakeries around Easter. Light and sweet, with a touch of tartness, these bun are the ultimate Lenten treat.

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Thumbnail image for Souffle Pancakes – The Ultimate Comfort Fluff

Souffle Pancakes – The Ultimate Comfort Fluff

March 22, 2012

Soufflé pancakes are light and airy while remaining incredibly decadent. Soufflé for breakfast? Yes, please! This recipe will make you squeal with delight.

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Thumbnail image for Fat Tuesday! Mardi Gras King Cake Recipe – Stand Mixer-Free

Fat Tuesday! Mardi Gras King Cake Recipe – Stand Mixer-Free

February 21, 2012

In honor of Mardi Gras, this king cake recipe will help you celebrate, bayou-style. Soft and sweet, this bready treat is covered with a sweet glaze and colored sugar. While many king cake recipes require a stand mixer, this one doesn’t.

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Thumbnail image for A Sweet for Your Sweetie: Strawberry Chocolate Mousse Parfaits

A Sweet for Your Sweetie: Strawberry Chocolate Mousse Parfaits

February 13, 2012

This strawberry chocolate mousse parfait is a perfect quick and easy dessert for Valentine’s Day. Impress your love with literally five minutes worth of work!

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Thumbnail image for Happy 5th Birthday, The Culinary Life!

Happy 5th Birthday, The Culinary Life!

February 4, 2012

I can’t believe this blog is 5 years old. So much has happened in that time!

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Thumbnail image for Hippy Crack Muffins

Hippy Crack Muffins

January 27, 2012

This raspberry flax and almond flour muffins recipe is perfect for breakfast, hot out of the toaster oven, smeared with butter and honey. I’ve been known to eat three at a time, then moan in delight.

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