The Makings of a Wonderful Afternoon.

The Makings of a Wonderful Afternoon., originally uploaded by razzieswirl.

I know it's been a while since I really updated the blog or added any of the recipes I promised.

The last few weeks have been very hot and muggy. I'm generally not inspired to do much of anything in this weather. I may be motivated to slip into a cold bath, or sit under the sprinkler in the backyard. But slaving over a hot stove? Not so much. Plus, we were out of town for about a week for Kelli and Nicks wedding. So I haven't been cooking/baking much recently.

Last night while sipping on cocktails at my mothers I decided I wanted to try to make brioche. Let me re-phrase that, I've made brioche before, in small roll form, but I've never made a loaf, nor have I ever made a brioche I was really very happy with. You see, bread and I don't get along very well. I long to make amazing breads, and pastry doughs, but I'm a tad intimidated by the thought. I've tried both dry and fresh yeast, but nothing seems to like me very much.

So today, I bought some yeast, and prepared the dough in my mixer (I've never tried to make dough in my mixer before) and I think I may have actually gotten it right. I'll post the dough, and the baked brioche, unless it comes out flat and dry.

I cleaned my sweet little kitchen, and set to baking. As you can see the jam came out beautifully. We have many bushes out in the backyard, that yeild the most perfect raspberry you will ever try. I swear. It also makes the best raspberry jam I've ever tasted. My grandmother originallly taught me to make raspberry jam. We use no pectin, just sugar and fresh fruit. I plan to smother the warm brioche in the fresh raspberry jam. Yum yum!

To make your own fresh jam (with any flavor really):

Equal parts sugar and fruit.

So 2 cups raspberries, and 2 cups sugar
I also added lemon zest, probably about 1 TBL.

Cook for about half an hour to an hour until sugar thickens the fruit.

And viola.

It's oh-so easy. I don't know why you wouldn't make your own jam. It's so much better than store bought, and it takes no time at all. Plus it fills your house with the most amazing aroma. It makes me feel all bright on the inside.

Oh, my brioche is beeping. Time to knead and let it rise again.

See you soon!

xoxo
m.