Need a super easy appetizer for your next holiday gathering? You will definitely want to try these bite-sized crispy phyllo cups full of melty brie cheese topped with sweet dark cherries. Maple syrup gives a depth of flavor and a new twist to the flavor. No maple syrup and don't want to buy a bottle for just one recipe? Substitute honey. Honey is a little sweeter than maple syrup, but in the quantity we are using, that doesn't matter. Substitute with the same amount of honey. Brown sugar is another possible substitution. Brown sugar is a little less sweet than maple syrup so you will need to increase the amount to 1/4 cup OR 4 tablespoons. Just sprinkle over the top of each cup. Corn syrup on the shelf? Yes, that works but it only makes the cherries sweeter without adding ... [Read More]
entertaining
12 no-bake gifts from the kitchen
Christmas Wreath Potato Chip Clusters Cherry Mash Bars Pistachio Fudge Cinnamon Swirl Cream Cheese Mints Classic Oreo Truffles Cranberry Pistachio Chocolate Bark Ritz Turtles Fabulous Fudge Gooey Golden Chex Mix No-Bake Chocolate Cookies Eggnog Fudge Grinch Kabobs Here are some other Christmas collections you might like to check out! Please pin!!! A Dozen Awesome Appetizer and Delicious Dips from a Pinch of Joy Twelve Days of Christmas Cookies Welcome to A Pinch of Joy! I’m so glad you stopped by today! Follow A Pinch of Joy using the icons on the teal bar at the top of the page so you don’t miss a thing! I’d love to have your company on this venture!! Share: if you found ... [Read More]
Tablescape for Brunch and Tea
Technically, this should be titled "Brunch with a Tea Party theme and a nod to Valentine's Day". Because tea is served mid afternoon. It didn't even qualify for Elevenses. The invitation read 10 am. This affair was an American hybrid. Tea and nibbles served when it fit the schedule of those attending. But no matter, because the reason for getting together was to have fun and good food no matter the time of day. Or the weather; because it snowed -- and snowed -- and snowed! I love using this beautiful white and gold china that belonged to Wheel's mother. The graceful shape of the pieces makes my heart sing. And so do the raised swirls and curls of the design, elegant white on white. White damask napkins clasped with a ring topped with a silk gardenia. Gold ... [Read More]
Planning a Tea Party Menu
When planning your tea party, take into consideration the time of day. If between meals, you can serve a lighter menu. The focus is on the tea with perhaps a small sandwich or “biscuits” – aka cookies, non-computer version. That was the origin of tea time – a tide-me-over between lunch and a dinner that was served late in the evening. It serves the same purpose today, and is also very useful for entertaining. It’s not the commitment of a meal, but is still a special event. No fussing required. Guests pass the dishes or help themselves from a small table or tea cart. The hostess pours, but guests also can help themselves after the first cup. Food is served in small portions and most often can be eaten using only the fingers. High tea was an early adaptation to include heavier fare ... [Read More]