Brunch a' Munch

I've decided that I'm going to do a brunch series here on a cupcake chronicle. i work crazy shifts, so most of the time i have to hang out with friends over brunch. This meal usually consists of pancakes, some type of berry, and of course, aunt jemima.

blueberry pancakes and high fashion are necessary brunch items

Apple Pie Cage Match

Fall is quickly approaching! Leaves are turning brown, the wind is fucking strong, and people start eating apples until their ears bleed. Another symbol of the transitioning seasons, is Bucktown's Apple Pie Bake Off, which is happening on October 10 in Holstein Park.

*que "the final countdown"*

I have registered in this contest and I plan to dominate. I've chosen to name my pie "Uncle Apple" and this title is best illustrated by the dough handlebar mustache that I have given him. I made my first practice pie last night, which consisted of a hella thick, rich crust, and a combination of golden delicious and granny smith apples covered in freakin' amazing goo. I was really pleased with how this pie turned out, but i'm definitely going to tweak the recipe by adding more of a thickening agent and some spices and perhaps lowering the amount of sugar.

I'll document more practice pies, but in the mean time, don't worry, i'll post pictures of my ribbon when i win.

An Ode to Craft

One of the only redeeming qualities of the unrelenting Chicago summers is the awesome amount of craft/art fairs going on in West Town. I went to the Bucktown Arts Fest with Michelle a few weeks ago and ran into some awesome local craftsters.

Of course, Circa Ceramics' cute, kitchy bowls in bold pastels and vintage prints never cease to prevent my squealing. You really can't lose with selling "wee tiles" and "wee bowls" that feature typewriters, bikes, the cook county flag, holga cameras, and kewpies - irresistibly hipster, right?

Another craftster that remained unique among the countless of garlands, screen prints, and felt plushies, was SODA. Amy's whimsical nature prints simultaneously create beautiful, simple jewelry to wear and cute, compact cups to sip warm autumn drinks! I also appreciate the minimal color palate she has chosen, which includes my favorite shade of tealy blue.