It was a gutsy move baking these for the best French chef around, but I learned to make them from chef Mark Ramsdell of L’ Academie de Cuisine. I was elated when Jacques pronounced them “terrific!” and his daughter (and TV costar), Claudine Pépin said they were the best she’s ever had.
Nonstick cooking spray
Red Truck Bakery’s Double-Chocolate Moonshine Cake
Luckily, moonshine isn’t overpowering when you bake with it, and I wanted to offer up some kind of hooch cake as a Virginia treat. Its vanilla-like flavor pairs well with chocolate, and the orange zest and nutmeg complement both.
Lemon-Blueberry Coffee Cake
This lovely tender, sweet, and tart lemon cake with juicy little bursts of blueberry and a pretty lemon glaze is perfect for celebrating something great!
