Meghan Y., Author at Cake 'n Knife

Veggie Avocado Quesadilla with Cilantro Crema

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON October 17, 2017 // 1 Comment

A Veggie Avocado Quesadilla with Cilantro Crema is a flurry of vegetables, spices and cheese to make your savory-loving heart explode with happiness. The combination of sautéed peppers and onions, creamy avocado, and cheese is wrapped in a crispy tortilla is a handheld meal that’ll perk up even the worst of weeks.

It’s rare, but sometimes I really just want to inhale all the vegetables I possibly can.

I am a big believer of the “you eat what your body tells you to eat” philosophy. Yes, I know this can be a dangerous road to walk down, BUT if you are actually listening to your body (and not just your overactive craving-driven brain), you won’t eat that badly.

You can actually feel your body craving vegetables.

[Read more…]

Pulled Pork Chipotle Arancini

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON October 13, 2017 // 3 Comments

Pulled Pork Chipotle Arancini is my smoky, meaty take on my favorite Italian fried snack. Smoky chipotle powder brings out the rich savory notes in the pork, and when you combine that with a bit of sharp cheddar and rice, you get fried perfection. The spicy salsa dip on the side is just the icing on the meaty cake (is that weird? I guess that’s weird… Just, you get what I mean)!

Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting Cake ‘n Knife!

It’s Friday the 13th!

Do you believe in any of those spooky Friday the 13th superstitions??

If I did, I’d probably be freaking. the. hell. out. right about now because I’m on a cruise ship in the middle of the ocean.

SO, instead of bringing you something spooky (I mean, I don’t really go Halloween cray in the first place – and I’m saving those recipes for when I get back), I’m bringing you something to help temper your irrational fear of something cosmically bad happening today. [Read more…]

Absolut Elyx Black Magic Martini

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON October 12, 2017 // 2 Comments

Get spooky this Halloween season with a festive Absolut Elyx Black Magic Martini! The blackberry thyme vodka martini is smooth, herbaceous, and tart with just a hint of sweetness. The magic of dry ice gives the martini a ghostly effect, making it just the ghoulish delight to indulge in this month.

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Absolut Elyx! As always, all opinions and the recipe are my own. Thanks for supporting the brands that support Cake ‘n Knife!

Do you need something to make this year’s Halloween a little more festive?

If you are anything like me, the days of going out all night to raging Halloween house parties and getting dressed up in costumes that aren’t weather-appropriate are longgggg gone.

Nowadays, especially when Halloween falls on a weeknight, Halloween is the night to stay in. We give out candy to the neighborhood kiddos, cuddle up with movies (well really one movie. Hocus Pocus. DUH), and indulge in all the good food . [Read more…]

Spicy Bourbon Sugar Rubbed Strip Steak

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON October 10, 2017 // 2 Comments

Spicy Bourbon Sugar Rubbed Strip Steak is what’s for dinner tonight! Homemade bourbon sugar gets added to a spicy rub mixture that forms a delicious crust on the outside of the strip steak. The sweet heat and juicy meat will take your steak game to the next level!

Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting Cake ‘n Knife!

A couple of months ago I went to an event with Sprouts and the Colorado Beef Council where I proceeded to make the BEST steak of my life.

And that’s saying something considering this perfect ribeye steak I made a couple years back that has been an undefeated champion.

It was at this event that I tried cooking strip steak for the first time ever.

Don’t scold me! I know I need to get outside my usual cuts of meat!

I was making it on the fly with a bunch of fellow bloggers, so I made a quick rub with a bunch of different spices that they had in the kitchen at the Colorado Beef Council. One of those ingredients was a bourbon sugar-based mix that I amped up the spice level to. The result was INSANE. It was rich in flavor, a little sweet and spicy, and it formed this amazing crust on the outside of the meat, making the meat even more juicy. [Read more…]

Blue Cheese Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON October 6, 2017 // 2 Comments

Blue Cheese Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls have all the flavors of your favorite buffalo chicken wings, wrapped in crispy fried egg roll wrappers. The spicy filling with homemade buffalo sauce is sure to satisfy all the heat-seekers in your life, with a cooling blue cheese dipping sauce to balance it all out. Everyone will be fighting over the last one!

Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting Cake ‘n Knife!

For me, the holiday tradition of getting together, eating great food and spending time with family and friends doesn’t start in November.

It’s starts with football season.

I say this and then realize that I haven’t hosted anyone for tailgating just yet… which makes me feel a wee bit silly for talking about how much I love to do it… moving is HARD ok? Gimme a break this year 😉 [Read more…]

Bourbon Caramel Apple Popovers

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON September 29, 2017 // 6 Comments

Bourbon Caramel Apple Popovers are THE dessert of the fall. Creamy bourbon caramel tops easy-to-make apple popovers to end your meal with a boozy seasonally sweet note. Are you drooling yet? Because I am.

Bourbon Caramel Apple Popovers | cakenknife.com #dessert #caramel #applepie #fall

Soooooo have you had enough of my fall obsession yet?

I feel so basic as I continue to sing praises about this season that I love. At least I’m not toting a PSL in a pair of delightful boots with a ten scarves and a messy bun?

Instead of heading back to pumpkin (I think I gave you enough with my updated cookies and ravioli posts, right?), I am going to APPLE.

And BOURBON.

[Read more…]

Cookbook Review: The Dumpling Galaxy Cookbook + Spicy Beef Dumplings

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON September 28, 2017 // Leave a Comment

The Dumpling Galaxy Cookbook + Spicy Beef Dumplings is the key to becoming a dumpling master in your own home. From totally approachable instructions to incredible flavors, this book is going to be a staple on your shelf. Just try the Spicy Beef Dumplings recipe and you’ll see for yourself!

Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting Cake ‘n Knife!

Whenever I order in from our favorite Chinese/Thai place, I ALWAYS make a point to get dumplings.

I am a wee bit obsessed with them, and yes, I totally base my opinion of any takeout/delivery place on their dumplings.

So when I stumbled up on The Dumpling Galaxy Cookbook, I knew I had to have it. [Read more…]

Roasted Butternut Squash Black Bean Tacos

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON September 26, 2017 // Leave a Comment

Roasted Butternut Squash Black Bean Tacos are the savory (healthy!) way to savor the fall season, all in a handheld magical little package. Rich butternut squash and seasoned black beans make sure a hearty filling that you won’t even miss the meat! Say helloooooo to the new Taco Tuesday my friends 😉

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Bob’s Red Mill! While I was compensated, as always, all opinions and the recipe are my own. Thanks for supporting the brands that support Cake ‘n Knife!

I made something vegetarian…

*GASP*

I KNOW.

I am not usually the one to bust out the Meatless Monday recipes, or try to be “healthier” by going without meat a few times a week. What can I say? I’m a carnivore through and through. [Read more…]

Slow Cooker Apple Cider Chicken Sliders

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON September 22, 2017 // 13 Comments

Slow Cooker Apple Cider Chicken Sliders are the ultimate fall tailgating slider to be adding to your menu for game day! The chicken gets all juicy and apple-infused while it’s cooked in the slow cooker, making it the ideal pairing for a crunchy, zesty apple cabbage slaw. Game day eats during these first months of fall don’t get much better than this.

Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will receive a small commission.

Apples, apples everywhere and not a one to pick…

Apple anything is one of those fall time flavors that brings me back to years and years of memories about fall.

When I lived in Kansas City, my favorite part about fall was when my mom and I could go out to the apple orchards to pick apples. We would pick apples all day long, try different types of honeys, and always grab some cider for the long drive home. [Read more…]

Spicy Mezcal Mule

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON September 21, 2017 // 8 Comments

A Spicy Mezcal Mule is a smoky take on one of my favorite cocktails. The smokiness from the mezcal, the heat from a touch of cayenne, and the tingle from the ginger beer all come together to make this unlike any other mule you’ve ever tasted. With only 4 ingredients, you have no excuse not to make one tonight!

It’s time to get spicy and smoky with your cocktail hour, my friends!

I have always love playing with different flavors of Moscow Mules.

The simple concoction of a mere few ingredients makes it easy to add and swap out a ton of different flavors so you can make unique Moscow Mules easily in your own home!

[Read more…]

Curry Chicken Enchiladas

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON September 19, 2017 // 7 Comments

Curry Chicken Enchiladas are a new, spicy take on your favorite Mexican meal! The creamy curry enchilada sauce that smothers the chicken and cheese stuffed tortillas is packed with strong flavors and just the right level of heat. Once you try a bite, you’ll never want to make enchiladas any other way.

Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting Cake ‘n Knife!

This is going to become your new fav way to make enchiladas, my friends. As much as you’ll love the original model, the upgraded curry model is going to blow your freaking socks off so much, you are going to start wondering why you didn’t think to try this delightful combination sooner.

Now I love classic enchiladas, don’t get me wrong. They are flavorful and comforting, making them a go-to meal anytime I don’t feel like putting tooooo much effort into dinner.

BUT, when I’m serving up enchiladas for friends and family? Well, I want to up the ante a bit. [Read more…]

Double Decker BLAT with Spicy Candied Bacon

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON September 18, 2017 // 1 Comment

Double Decker BLAT with Spicy Candied Bacon is just the lunch to make any lunch infinitely more special. The homemade spicy candied bacon and added crunch of golden fried bread elevate this sandwich way beyond the normal BLAT experience. You’ll never find a better sandwich to serve up at lunchtime!

Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting Cake ‘n Knife!

The simplest of sandwiches is the BLT.

Bacon. Lettuce. Tomato. Slap that between a couple slices of toasted bread and some mayonnaise and you have a delicious sandwich to nom on.

There are a few amazing BLTs I’ve had in my life, and I’ve incorporated all the best parts of those sandwiches into this epic double decker pile of goodness you see right here.

Most recently I had this KILLER BLT in a beer hall in Arvada. It had thick cut bacon they made in house. It had a creamy homemade mayonnaise. The best part of it though, was the middle layer of bread. [Read more…]

Pumpkin Ricotta Ravioli with Brown Butter Sage Sauce

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON September 15, 2017 // 2 Comments

Pumpkin Ricotta Ravioli with Brown Butter Sage Sauce is an elegant meal that every fall dinner should feature. The rich pumpkin ricotta filling plays off the silky brown butter sage sauce, all with fresh homemade pasta! Don’t let the homemade pasta intimidate you – it really is easier than you think to create.

Pumpkin Ricotta Ravioli with Brown Butter Sage Sauce | cakenknife.com #pasta #ravioli #homemade #recipe

So homemade pasta is back, and it is here to stay.

It’s been a while since I pulled out the homemade pasta for you all, hasn’t it? The last recipe was Caramel Stuffed Pumpkin Cookies, and that just feels like decades ago.

I suppose it was just decades of recipes ago… 😉

[Read more…]

Bourbon Pumpkin Smash

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON September 14, 2017 // 14 Comments

A Bourbon Pumpkin Smash on a cozy fall evening is just what this season calls for. With a homemade pumpkin spice simple syrup, this rich bourbon cocktail is full of flavor and just a little bit bubbly! It’s ideal for a cocktail hour at home, whether it’s a large gathering or just you on the couch with a blanket and a good book.

about this bourbon pumpkin smash

Now THIS is the kind of pumpkin spice that I get excited about.

You’ve heard me mention that my love of pumpkin spice isn’t off-the-charts OMG I HAVE TO HAVE A PSL RIGHT NOW levels. However, as seen with my Chai Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls, I can let out a little girlish squeal when pumpkin spice is done right.

This cocktail strikes exactly that chord for me. The combination of pumpkin spice and bourbon is seriously the bomb diggity. I really don’t have any other way to describe it.

It’s the pumpkin spice simple syrup that is the real hero of the cocktail. Just LOOK at that color….

If that doesn’t make you think of festive fall things, I don’t know what will!

You will want to start making giant batches of this simple syrup, not only for this cocktail, but also for anything else you can use simple syrup in. Want to make a pumpkin spice cappuccino at home? A latte perhaps? You could give a whole new twist to rich, homemade hot chocolate. The possibilities are endless!

pumpkin spice cocktail with bourbon image in glasses

Why not make EVERYTHING pumpkin right? I told you I got your back, pumpkin lovers. Even if I’m not on the PSL train, I got your back. 😉

The rich and festive flavors of pumpkin spice in the simple syrup make the syrup a great sweetener that isn’t too sweet to overpower the bourbon. Instead, it’s the perfect complement to the bourbon.

The cinnamon, allspice and ginger in pumpkin pie spice are natural allies for bourbon, and the richness of the pumpkin puree brings out a savory and slightly bitter note that you can really taste in the cocktail.

It’s just the right cocktail to drink while in your favorite flannel, oversized shirt and leggings, sitting by a window, watching the leaves gently fall to the ground. I mean, the bourbon pumpkin combo really is the best for this time of year, after all.

In reality, that is probably not what you’ll be doing when you drink this cocktail. In all likelihood you’ll be enjoying a drink at the end of a long day at work, or serving up the cocktail for a group of friends catching up around the dinner table.

But I like to imagine that movie moment in my head.

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pumpkin spice simple syrup in carafe picture

ingredients

pumpkin spice simple syrup – the versatile recipe that you’ll want to use all fall long! You can use it to spice up cocktails, or simply as a sweetener for your morning coffee. I have the recipe included in the card below, but you can also visit the post linked here for more info!

bourbon – bourbon is the obvious choice for this cocktail (it is a bourbon smash after all!), and you can go with a nice mid-price range option like Bulleit or Woodford Reserve.

lemon juice – I always recommend fresh lemon juice because store-bought tends to taste a lot more sour, in my opinion at least.

soda water – This gives a little bubbly kiss to the cocktail, which I truly love! You can also use plain water if you don’t keep soda water on hand.

sugar – to make the simple syrup, you will need granulated sugar and for the rimming mix, you will need brown sugar. I recommend using light brown sugar, but you can also use dark brown sugar if that’s what you have handy.

spices – cinnamon, allspice and ginger are natural allies for bourbon, making these spices ideal for the rimming sugar.

this recipe’s must haves

A Boston shaker is a great standard shaker to have on hand, especially if you don’t have one yet. And if you don’t, you really need to just get this now to make your life easier. Just sayin.

Cocktail spoons so you can always have a spoon to stir any cocktail!

You need to have your saucepan handy – this one especially because I LOVE the copper…

rimming a glass with cinnamon sugar picture

here’s how to make a bourbon pumpkin smash

make simple syrup

Add pumpkin puree, water, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice to a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Once smooth and bubbling, remove from heat and cover. Let sit for 15 minutes.

Strain the syrup, pushing through as much liquid as you can. Syrup can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

make rimming mixture

Combine ingredients for the rimming mixture in a small bowl, stirring until combined. Dump on a shallow plate.

Rub the edge of a rocks glass(es) with lemon wedge to wet it, then roll in the rimming sugar. Set rimmed glass(es) aside.

make cocktail

In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add pumpkin spice syrup, bourbon, and lemon juice for the cocktail. Shake well.

strain and finish

Fill the rimmed glass(es) with ice and strain cocktail mixture.

Top off with soda water, stir and garnish before serving.

tips for success

use the right pumpkin puree. If you are buying pumpkin puree, make sure that you buy the puree and not the pumpkin pie filling in a can! You can also learn how to make pumpkin puree yourself for all your cocktails, pies, and other recipes this fall.

make it in bulk. Hosting a gathering? To make these in bulk, I recommend making the cocktail in batches of 4 at a time (this will fit most cocktail shakers!). You’ll need 4 oz pumpkin spice simple syrup, 8 oz bourbon (1 cup), 1 oz lemon juice, and 16 oz soda water (2 cups) total for 4 cocktails.

More tasty pumpkin beverage recipes: Pumpkin Pie Martini | Homemade Pumpkin Non-Alcoholic Irish Cream | Pumpkin Spice Bourbon Old Fashioned | Pumpkin Pie Mimosa

Side image of pumpkin bourbon smash cocktail in glasses

how long can I store the pumpkin spice syrup?

Once cooled, the pumpkin spice simple syrup will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Need some more inspiration for cocktail hour? Check out my cocktail recipes page!

what to serve with a bourbon pumpkin smash

I love this cocktail because the balance of pumpkin pie flavor with a little sour and a little sweet is just right for all your favorite fall savory dishes!

Hosting a party? If this is your star cocktail, I suggest keeping the pumpkin theme going with chorizo pumpkin chipotle queso! You could also go with a classic cacio e pepe wings situation for a savory pairing that doesn’t have pumpkin. For an elevated seasonal centerpiece, this fall charcuterie board highlights the seasonal flavors of autumn!

For dinner, if you want to pair with savory pumpkin flavors, this spicy black bean chicken pumpkin enchilada bake is a fun layered tray of goodness. Another classic savory fall meal is roasted chicken with white wine and fresh herbs!

Finally, if you make this bourbon pumpkin smash, please be sure to give this recipe a rating or leave a comment! I love to hear when you all make recipes, and I do take the time to respond to every single comment. Feel free to drop questions below too, if you have them!

Oh and be sure to tag me on Instagram if you make the recipe! Love being able to see these recipes come to live in your homes – it’s my favorite thing to look through those photos. It really means the world to me!

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With seasonal produce guides, recipes, and more, this cookbook is filled with seasonal food for every occasion.

download now

Bourbon Pumpkin Smash

When you combine pumpkin spice simple syrup, bourbon and a splash of lemon juice, you have a pumpkin cocktail that makes any fall gathering truly memorable!

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Prep Time: 5

Cook Time: 5

Total Time: 10

instructions

To make the simple syrup, add pumpkin puree, water, sugar and pumpkin pie spice to a small saucepan. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Once the syrup is boiling and smooth, remove from heat and cover. Let sit for 15 minutes.
Strain the pumpkin mixture into an airtight container. Let cool completely before making the cocktail. Syrup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
In a small bowl, stir together ingredients for the cinnamon rimming sugar.
Rub the edge of a rocks glass with a lemon wedge.
Pour the rimming sugar into a shallow dish. Rim the rocks glass with sugar. Set aside.
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add pumpkin spice syrup, bourbon and lemon juice for the cocktail. Shake well.
Fill rimmed rocks glass with ice. Strain the cocktail into the glass.
Top with soda water. Give the cocktail one final stir and serve.

Category: Booze

Caramel Stuffed Pumpkin Cookies

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON September 12, 2017 // 11 Comments

Caramel Stuffed Pumpkin Cookies are gooey, chewy and packed with fall pumpkin flavor! Even though these cookies are incredibly indulgent, they are so easy to make. Celebrate the arrival of harvest season (and satisfy that sweet tooth at the same time!) – pumpkin style!

The smell of pumpkin will fill your house every time you bake these. It’s just like walking into a house that has been baking pumpkin pies all day.

In other words, it’s pure magic!

I feel such a sense of calm when fall rolls around. I bust out the pumpkin and apple scented candles, big blankets, comfy sweaters, boots and mulled wine as soon as I can.

It’s all I can do to try to stay out of sweats all day on a regular basis, so I seriously love when fall rolls around because leggings and sweaters are acceptable attire in AND out of the house. [Read more…]

Olive Oil Salted Caramel Brownie Cookies

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON September 11, 2017 // 3 Comments

When you need a hit of sweet and salty in the same bite, Olive Oil Salted Caramel Brownie Cookies are here to satisfy your craving! The Bertolli® olive oil in these cookies makes them extra soft, chewy and buttery without using any butter. The surprise gooey caramel center is the bomb diggity extra touch your homegating celebrations NEED.

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Bertolli® and Kroger Game Day Greats! As always, all opinions are my own. Thanks for supporting the brands that support Cake ‘n Knife!

Let’s talk olive oil, friends.

Obviously you know what olive oil is. As a youngling I knew it was that stuff my mom tossed veggies in before roasting them. You know, the normal stuff.

It wasn’t until I spent time in Rome that I learned what EVOO could really do. That’s where it hit me that this oil was so much more than a mere cooking ingredient.

The sumptuous flavor of extra virgin olive oil can elevate a multitude of recipes, specifically these insane brownie cookies. [Read more…]

Slow Cooker Garlic Rosemary Pot Roast with Red Wine Sauce

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON September 8, 2017 // 2 Comments

Slow Cooker Garlic Rosemary Pot Roast with Red Wine Sauce is a comforting meal you will keep turning to again and again, throughout the fall and winter seasons. Chuck roast is slow cooked with onion, garlic, rosemary and spices until it is fall-apart-in-your-mouth tender. Top it all off with a rich red wine sauce and you have a comforting meal that’s easy to make, and even easier to devour.

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Sprouts! While I was compensated, as always, all opinions and the recipe are my own. Thanks for supporting the brands that support Cake ‘n Knife!

Did you grow up with pot roast?

I was not one of those kids that did. I think my grandma made it from time to time, but honestly I couldn’t name a specific time I ate it as a child.

Since it was just my mom and me, we never opted for those giant “feed the entire family in one pot” meals because we would never finish it. [Read more…]

An Evening in New Historic Arvada

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON September 7, 2017 // Leave a Comment

The quaint main street running down the center Olde Town Arvada sneaks you right out of the modern Denver jungle and into a unique corner of the city. Though the historic buildings have been maintained, the bars and restaurants hiding within are anything but old school. Head out for An Evening in New Historic Arvada to indulge in a variety of beer, booze, and food to get your taste buds tingling!

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Arvada Tavern and Kline’s Beer Hall! As always, all opinions are my own. Thanks for supporting the brands that support Cake ‘n Knife!

It’s funny how few people who are local to Denver venture out to Olde Town Arvada. It took me about 15 years to work my way northwest to this adorably quaint section of the city (shameful, I know). Olde Town Arvada is one of those places that has kept with it’s historic roots in the look and feel of it’s Main Street Americana roots, without becoming dated and forgotten.

Instead there is a lively food, cocktail and beer scene that is humming all along the main road, stemming off into side streets. As you walk around Olde Town Arvada, you’ll be enchanted by the brick buildings, the variety of shops and restaurants, and the overall feeling of being taken away from the city without venturing too far from home. [Read more…]

Chai Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON September 5, 2017 // 9 Comments

Chai Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls are the explosion of fall flavors your autumn-loving heart desires. The combination of the pumpkin spice and chai spice makes this a bold made-from-scratch breakfast or brunch dish to make throughout fall and straight on into winter. It’s just the right thing to wake up to alongside your favorite cup of coffee!

Chai Pumpkin Spice Cinnamon Rolls | cakenknife.com #pumpkinspice #chaispice #fall #breakfast

Even though Labor Day weekend marks the end of summer, it seemed like summer ended effective September 1st this year because of one thing…

Pumpkin spice latte season is here.

Not ready for PSL season? Make strawberry rolls instead to keep that summer feeling alive!

I can already hear some of you screaming with joy right now.

Lord knows I have friends running around Denver right now, grabbing as many PSLs as they can carry, obsessing over the pumpkin spice deliciousness.

[Read more…]

Absolut Elyx Wild Berry Vesper

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON September 1, 2017 // Leave a Comment

An elegant Absolut Elyx Wild Berry Vesper is the fruity sipper your cocktail hour needs this week. The trio of tart and sweet berries pair beautifully with smooth, silky Absolut Elyx vodka; making this cocktail an elevated version of the classic Vesper cocktail. You and your friends will be feeling fancy and bright with every sip!

Absolut Elyx Wild Berry Vesper | cakenknife.com #sponsored #cocktail #happyhour

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Absolut Elyx! As always, all opinions and the recipe are my own. Thanks for supporting the brands that support Cake ‘n Knife!

The long weekend is almost here and I can practically taste the relaxation and joy…

By relaxation and joy, I obviously mean this smooth and fruity cocktail.

It’s hard to believe that the big move into our new house is tomorrow. The journey to this point has been long and full of wayyyyyy too much painting, but I am feeling the weight of a never-ending to-do list start to lessen slightly.

[Read more…]

Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Jalapeños

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON August 31, 2017 // 5 Comments

For an easy tailgating appetizer that packs in the flavor, reach for some Goat Cheese Stuffed Bacon Wrapped Jalapeños. The smoky bacon wrapped around goat cheese stuffed spicy peppers is an explosion of savory, indulgent heat to help you cheer on your home team! Throw them on the grill or bake them up at home – either way, you’ve got your next tailgating party covered.

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Cypress Grove! While I was compensated and given product in exchange for this post, as always, all opinions and the recipe are my own. Thanks for supporting the brands that support Cake ‘n Knife!

It’s almost September!!

For most people this is the start of a pumpkin obsession, but for me, September signifies a more important milestone… The start of tailgating season is almost HERE!

To celebrate just how close tailgating season is, and to give you a little something to whip up over Labor Day weekend (all in the name of tailgating preparation, right?), I decided to whip up an appetizer that never EVER gets old. [Read more…]

Hot Chicken with Homemade Quick Pickles

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON August 29, 2017 // 5 Comments

Love setting your mouth on fire? Turn up the heat with crispy Hot Chicken with Homemade Quick Pickles! The juicy chicken is fried to perfection and brushed with a spicy oil that will bring any spicy food lover to their knees. Pair that with cool, crunchy quick pickles, and you’ve got a meal no one will forget!

Hot Chicken with Homemade Quick Pickles | cakenknife.com #dinner #southern #nashville #friedchicken

I have been DYING to share this recipe with you all ever since I made it…

Getting ahead in my schedule of cooking to ensure I had time to pack and move this week has been somewhat of a pain, because I can’t immediately share all the deliciousness that’s been coming out of my kitchen.

This chicken is the highlight of my life right now.

Before I dive into the recipe itself, have you ever heard of or indulged in hot chicken?

[Read more…]

Elvis Cocktail

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON August 24, 2017 // 4 Comments

If you aren’t putting beer in your cocktails, you aren’t living life to its fullest. Change that now with a delightfully refreshing Elvis Cocktail! This end-of-summer cocktail is rich in hoppy and citrusy notes, with a splash of sweetness to satiate your thirst as we make it through these final hot days before fall sets in.

Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will receive a small commission. Thank you for supporting Cake ‘n Knife!

I feel like I am melting on the face of the sun…

It’s HOT here in Denver.

More accurately it’s HOT in my office on the second floor where the air conditioning doesn’t really reach and I end each day feeling like I’m going to melt into my chair if I lean back too far into it.

Other things that don’t help is running over to a hot house to paint endless things…

[Read more…]

Denver Food + Wine Festival 2017 (plus a GIVEAWAY!)

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON August 23, 2017 // 10 Comments

My favorite week is coming back to Denver in early September… That’s right, it’s time for the Denver Food + Wine Festival! Want more details (and a chance to win tickets to the Grand Tasting)? Read on, my friends!

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by the Denver Food + Wine Festival! As always, all opinions are my own. Thank you for supporting the partners that support Cake ‘n Knife!

Guess what time of year it is….?

No I’m not talking about PSL season. I’m not talking about tailgating season. Today, I’m talking about Denver Food + Wine Festival week!

As you all know, this particular week is my hands-down favorite time of year in Denver for all things food and wine. The Denver Food + Wine Festival is fast approaching (September 5th through 10th) and it’s going to be another week filled with killer foodie events. If you are an uber foodie here in Denver, this is one of those weeks that literally feels like Christmas every single day. [Read more…]

And BOURBON.

I suppose it was just decades of recipes ago… 😉

about this bourbon pumpkin smash

Why not make EVERYTHING pumpkin right? I told you I got your back, pumpkin lovers. Even if I’m not on the PSL train, I got your back. 😉

everyday seasonal: fall

ingredients

this recipe’s must haves

here’s how to make a bourbon pumpkin smash

make simple syrup

make rimming mixture

make cocktail

strain and finish

tips for success

how long can I store the pumpkin spice syrup?

what to serve with a bourbon pumpkin smash

everyday seasonal cookbook

Bourbon Pumpkin Smash

instructions

I can already hear some of you screaming with joy right now.

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