Best Recipe EVER - Cake in a Mug

pilfered pic but I promise it works!!

As a general rule, I try to avoid keeping sweet treats around the house because I have no willpower when it comes to portion control and baked goods.  Unfortunately, this does not stop me from DYING for dessert after dinner most days.  On nights when I absolutely can't shake the craving, we'll take a walk to pinkberry or the supermarket, and I'll choose something single serve that I can enjoy and forget. 

Last night, I discovered what may be my new evening salvation (or a serious addiction).

YOU CAN MAKE CAKE IN THE MICROWAVE, IN A COFFEE MUG, IN 60 SECONDS.

I was totally skeptical - but it was the EASIEST thing ever, and produced a perfect individual cake!

Here's how you make it:

In a mug, combine 2 tablespoons water, 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, a pinch of salt and a few drops vanilla extract.  Whisk well.

Add in 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, whisk again.

Add 3 tablespoons sugar, back to whiskin'.

Finally, add 2 tablespoons flour, one more whisk!

VOILA!  Your batter is done.  Toss the mug in the microwave for 60-70 seconds depending on whether you like your baked goods "molten" in the middle or thoroughly done.  ENJOY! 

I must admit that a review I read described this cake as very "heavy".  She recommended a bit less sugar and a bit less flower, and I took that advice.  Mine came out great.

I would absolutely consider making these for guests.  You could dress them up by prepping in a small, microwave safe bowl and adding a little ice cream or caramel and nuts.

 Good trick.  Good day!  Till tomorrow...

Salted Caramel Pinkberry

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Celebrate Marriage Equality

"Cuomo Gets a Freebie" sign at the 2011 NYC Pride Parade

Saturday was a bit hectic due to some unexpected friend/family/travel issues.  I still managed to do one of my to-do's, however, by eating breakfast at Market Diner waaay over on 11th Ave.  It's the one you've probably seen from your cab headed up (or downtown) late at night.  It's all cute and stand-alone and chrome and looks like a legit diner from the 50s.  I have to admit that it was worth the buildup and will likely become the new go-to diner in my 'hood.  The food was all really good, AND they give you a free biscuit with any order.  Heaven knows that was the selling point for this Southern girl.

Sunday, by contrast, I had a full day of fun.  I went to support my good friends at Popchips by taking some pictures of the popmobile in the annual Pride Parade.  Coming off Friday's vote to legalize same-sex marriage in New York, you could feel the overwhelming positivity and happy energy in the crowd.  I didn't notice anyone out of control or riotous.  It was sincerely a feel-good atmosphere and I felt very proud to be a part of this historical weekend.

Way to be a leader, NY!

242 Days Left - Getting Back in the Saddle

Me enjoying Down & Derby Roller Disco!

Well gang, it would appear I have dropped the ball for the past month or so.  Rest assured that I have been quite busy with bucket-list worthy adventures, although I have skipped posting them here.  Some of the highlights have included:

• getting settled into a new apartment
• my first trip to the New York Aquarium
• making not one, but TWO awesomely stress inducing custom cakes
• taking in a Yankees game at the new stadium
• taste testing one-too many lobster rolls
• one weekend in Delaware and one in Montauk
• the Big Apple BBQ
• my first ever whitewater rafting adventure
• AND fulfilling a big personal goal by attending a roller disco (pictured above)

I know there are even more things I'm forgetting!  It has been a busy few weeks, without a doubt!

Just so you don't feel totally left out, below are a few of the pictures I WOULD have posted if I were keeping up.

I was OBSESSED with the Jellyfish tanks at the NY Aquarium

Red Hook Lobster Pound wins the "Honey's Favorite roll" contest by far!

The infamous plaid cake I made for @joeyhodges birthday

Best Dessert award goes to the blueberry cobbler from Blue Smoke Bake Shop

Team red prepping for a grown-folks field day in Prospect Park!

Opening of the Beekman Beer Garden in FiDi

A beyond beautiful weekend in Montauk!

I hope to do a better job of posting from here on out.  365 days are a lot!!  It makes me realize I have a lot of youth left.  :)

Till tomorrow...