Winner!

Society Bakery runs contests on Facebook...a chance to win a free treat!  I always miss out on the contest, but yesterday there was a change in the good luck tide.  I just so happened to sign in on my Facebook page when I saw a post from Society Bakery stating that they would give everyone who commented in two minutes a free cupcake or whoopie pie.  I looked at the time, and only a minute had passed.  I couldn't believe it...really?  I left a quick "me, me me" and happily waited until I saw their "Done" posted.  I actually won!  Lil ol' me won!  I printed off the thread (as was instructed to do).  I made my way to the bakery this afternoon.  Oh, all the delightful flavors...saw the yummy Key Lime that I had so loved on my last visit, but I knew I had to try something different.  Chocolate was sounding pretty good, and I found a chocolate on chocolate on chocolate cupcake called Brooklyn Blackout.  I thought, yes, I'll use my freebie for this chocolate wonder.  I handed over my paper, pointed to my name, and off I went to the other side where I ordered up a Cafe Mocha at Corner Market.  The cupcake was even more delish than it looked.  I was afraid all the chocolate would be a bit too rich, even for me, but I was pleasantly surprised.  The chocolate cake had just a hint of sweetness, but I picked up a buttery note more than anything.  Combine that with a chocolate, fudgey center and sweet chocolate icing...well, it was an exciting experience that my taste buds were thanking me for.  The chocolate slices on top were just an added bonus.  I left there feeling full of joy!  Thanks to Society Bakery for treating me to this cupcake and making my day a bit brighter!  Be sure to Like Society Bakery's Facebook page for your chance to win.

What's Up Cupcake

Happy National Cupcake Day! I thought it fitting to blog about my favorite cupcake corner of the world on this oh-so-sweet day. I’m over-zealous to share What’s Up Cupcake with you. Situated in a small house off of Keller’s Main Street, is What’s Up Cupcake which is family owned and operated. When you open the door, you’re instantly at home…talk about feeling like you’re in Grandma's kitchen...oh boy! The delightful, sweet aroma eases the worst of days and transforms you into blissful ease. The gals at WUC are warm and friendly, and the owner is always engaging. The cupcake display reveals the most extraordinary cupcakes that, I’m quite certain, smile back at you. The flavors change from day to day, and you can keep up with the changing menu on WUC’s Facebook and Twitter pages. I knew on this particular day that they would be making my new favorite flavor (unique to boot), Chocolate Dipped Strawberry. I also ordered a flavor I had yet to try, Caramel Toffee Crunch and, of course, a side of coffee. My treats were put in a plastic to-go carrier, since I would be taking my extra Chocolate Dipped Strawberry cupcake home. I made my way over to the coffee station to fill up my coffee cup; there are usually two flavors to choose from. The house definitely has this coffee house vibe with hardwood floors, separate rooms having a different personality. The front room has the dining experience with bistro style table and chairs, and the adorable photos of their dog posing with a cupcake on its head (now that's a trick) hanging along the wall. My usual spot is in the back room with a couch, leather chairs, and a coffee table with local magazines to read. I love to take my book and sit back in this room to read, nibble on cupcakes all the while glancing at the window that frames beautiful trees. It really is a hideaway! The adjacent room is for little ones to enjoy with child-size table and chairs and pictures of a darling little girl enjoying her cupcake. I, of course, chose to sit on the couch, as usual, to enjoy my goodies. Cross my heart, I have never tasted a cupcake I didn't fall in love with at WUC! They are moist, flavorful and always fresh! The delish, tickle-your-tastebuds Chocolate Dipped Strawberry cupcake stole my heart on the first bite. Imagine your teeth sinking into chocolate sauce, then into a layer of strawberry frosting, followed by a moist chocolate cake. However, the Caramel Toffee Crunch held its own weight in gold, tasting like a toffee bar mixed into a cupcake and drizzled with caramel sauce. Well, Child, it makes you wanna slap yo momma. My momma wasn’t there, so I slapped myself. I’m telling you, it just doesn’t get any better than WUC cupcakes! Whether you pick up a dozen for a party, or just stop in for one cupcake to indulge in, you will always leave feeling better than before you walked in! And, if you buy a t-shirt and wear it on Tuesdays, you get a free cupcake. Now that’s something to smile about!
http://www.whats-up-cupcake.com/

La Duni

One of the reasons for doing this blog is to introduce you to my favorite places, those places I consider a retreat from every day life offering ambience and sweets so delicious you can’t help but savor in such guilty pleasures! Today, I introduce you to one of my top spots…La Duni!  This La Duni I am blogging about (there are several) is on McKinney in Dallas. A pleasure of a day is one where I am camped out at one of the small tables with a lavish dessert and coffee drink in front of me. Now, La Duni has exceptional Latin cuisine and cocktails to please your lunch or dinner palate. But, the real festival lies within their dessert and coffee menus. On this particular Saturday afternoon, I arrived after the lunch crowd and was greeted by the hostess who led me by my favorite sight, the large table in the front showcasing large cakes, cupcakes and all that speaks to my senses. I was sat at one of the two-seater tables. My waitress was quick to bring ice cold water and the menus which I quickly deterred, telling her I already knew my selection. I ordered my favorite pairing, a slice of their popular Cuatro Leches cake and a Cappuccino Caramel. As I waited for my goodies to arrive, I sat back and took in the atmosphere. Great latin lounge music played overhead to set the mood. The large shelf divider which separates the bar from the dining area was housing bottles of wine. Small fans atop the divider as well as ceiling fans kept the cool air circulating on a hot, sultry day. I was facing the wall which is all windows covered with curtain panels and offering a slight view to the covered patio. I could see lush greenery all around, and if I let my mind go, I was easily transferred to a great Latin American destination. One is no longer in Dallas when inside this great restaurant. Large painting of fruits hang along the walls as well as the personal touch of the black and white photographs depicting the owners’ little boy donned in a chef outfit, making his own concoction in the kitchen. My cake was delivered in a quick fashion as my eyes glazed over by the magic of this cake. The Cappuccino quickly followed in their typical white mug. I smiled as I saw the familiar caramel music note that topped the drink. The drink certainly was music to my mouth! The Cuatro Leches is $7.95 for a slice, but the slice is big enough to serve two people. The cake is cream soaked and setting in a small puddle of cream surrounded by a light dusting of powdered sugar. The meringue is fluffy and combines nicely with the moist cake. The coolness of this cake followed by the warm cappuccino was delightful, and the caramel flavors hummed a sweet melody to my palate! As much as I wanted, I could not finish the large slice of cake, but almost.  One can’t help but to fall in love with La Duni!

http://www.laduni.com/

Silver Joes

One of the coolest coffee joints I've visited sets in Rogers, AR...Silver Joe's!  This free standing shop is a gem of a find, offering Rogers a bit of city-life flair!  Silver Joe's fresh decorum appeals to both women and men.  Take, for instance, the flat screen TV that is placed in the back of an actual Airstream trailer which has been built into a wall.  What guy doesn't want to watch his favorite game on this TV while sitting in one the aluminum high backs or black leather sofa chairs?  However, as a woman, I am right at home with their splash of  interior decorating genius and a few small spaces that make me want to hang out with a friend all day while enjoying their flavorful coffee and pastries.  Of course, Silver Joe's main color is silver!  I simply cannot do this place justice with my own descriptions which is why I have taken several photos to share.  When visiting Silver Joe's, I always opt for the Chai Latte and a scone (preferably Blueberry).  I'm never disappointed.  The scones are fresh and popping with natural blueberry flavor!  And they will heat it up for you, making it all the more delightful...even when it's 95 degrees outside!  Windows all around offer a bright room, with fresh flowers on each table and spotless surroundings!  The menu offers a variety of coffees, teas and smoothies as well as a nice lunch menu!  And, if you become an instant fan, you can purchase on of their logo travel mugs or tees on your way out.  Let me tell you folks, Silver Joe's motto is adventure, and this place is going places!  I only hope their next adventure is Dallas/Fort Worth!

http://www.silverjoes.com/

Kupcakes and More

One of the corner shops in historic downtown Bentonville, AR is a new cupcake joint called Kupcakes and More.  When you walk in, you find a big open space, bright, cheery, and plenty of seating.  I made my way to the cupcake display and looked for something different to try.  The Chai Tea Spice caught my attention, and I was told by the man behind the counter that I was sure to be happy with my choice.  My cupcake was served on a clear plastic plate and napkins and forks were provided.  I chose the one spot by the large front windows that had a black couch and chairs by a white trimmed fireplace (obviously, not on due to the fact it's summer).  I took in the nouveau feel of the bakery with great appeal such as the white tin ceiling.  I peeled the cake wrapper away and took my first bite.  I have to say that I was impressed that this little cake held so many flavors with just the right amount of spice and sweetness.  The look was simple...no fancy swirled frosting, no sprinkles.  It was more like a powdered sugar icing spread across the top of the cupcake and topped with a dust of spice.  I was quite pleased with the texture, the balance of bold and light.  However, they are small next to some of the Texas-sized cupcakes I'm used to.  My treat was $2.75.  But, in a small town, I think Kupcakes and More has added a splash of yum to their downtown, and I would certainly visit again.  In addition, they offer coffee and espresso.  I can only imagine nestling in by the fireplace with a cupcake and coffee on a cold winter day.  And if you didn't get enough of cupcakes, there is a nice display of cupcake-related gifts to buy...a cupcake wine glass, anyone?  Click on the link below to get a virtual view of the bakery.

Kupcakes and More

The Book Carriage & Coffee Shop

I’ve always dreamt of having a quaint little bookstore with a Barista serving up artful lattes…dreamy music playing softly in the background. Well, I may not have that store, but I certainly stumbled upon a local couple who does, and I was thrilled to find myself pulling up in front of it! The Book Carriage & Coffee Shop in Roanoke’s historic downtown is what dreams are made of (at least in mine). This brick building has charm written all over it, and the open sign flashed on to tell me I was more than welcome to come in. I opened the door to find books galore, an aroma of coffee hanging in the air and a “Hello” from behind the coffee bar. It was delightful! I made my way through the book shelves, fingers gliding over book spines before finding myself standing in front of the Barista ordering a White Chocolate Mocha along with a cookie from one of the glass jars. I informed her that I would be enjoying the beverage in house so a mug would be my preference. As my drink was being crafted, I walked over to two tables that were in the front of the store. Both displayed Texas books full of history of Dallas, Fort Worth and some of the smaller towns such as Roanoke. I enjoyed flipping through the pages until the Barista let me know my drink was ready. I found not just a humdrum mocha waiting at the bar, but I discovered this red mug setting on a small red plate. The whipped cream was artfully placed on top of the coffee and had a caramel layer on it. It was beautiful. I grabbed my cookie and drink and carefully made my way up the wooden steps where I found a comfy loft awaiting me. I sat in one of the high back chairs and enjoyed my delicious mocha. There was this Texas rugged feel with hardwood floors, wooden beams, exposed air vents, outdoor style lamps lining the wooden beams in the loft. Local art hung on the walls to purchase, and I noticed above the coffee bar was an open setting for musicians. How cool! I ate my toffee/chocolate cookie, enjoyed my delish mocha and made my way downstairs where I found a treasure of a book to purchase! Sure the big chain bookstores have much more inventory, but The Book Carriage & Coffee Shop has charm, a Texas feel, and a Barista who knows how to make one heck of a latte on one of the best machines available…see their website!  What a nostalgic kind of place!

http://www.bookcarriage.com/

Blue Bonnet Bakery

Follow the red brick road of Camp Bowie to Blue Bonnet Bakery. The minute I pulled in front of this bakery and saw gift bags with tissue bouquets lining the sills of the large windows which were trimmed with a white lace etched border, I was smiling. I didn’t have to open the door to know this bakery was my kind of place. Yes, that was indeed confirmed when my foot stepped onto the black and white checkered floor. The bakery cases were long and full of cookies…lots and lots of cookies! I made my way down to the end that displayed the morning pastries searching for something unique. I pointed to one roll with a crumbled topping and asked what it was, and the woman behind the counter broke into a big smile while raising her eyebrows to indicate I had chosen a favorite. She barely got the words out of her mouth, “Cream Cheese Roll..,” and I had nodded my head yes. I took my time strolling to the other side where the register was, taking in all the goodies along my way…cookies, cupcakes, doughnuts, cakes…not enough time or appetite in the day to experience all this bakery has to offer. Upon paying for my roll and coffee, this gracious employee asked if I would like a cup of ice for my bottled water that I had carried in. I declined but told her that I would be eating my roll in the dining area and would like a fork if one was available. She offered to warm up my roll, put it on a tray and served it up with a fork AND knife. I filled my coffee cup at the coffee station (there’s also juice, milk and water available) with cinnamon coffee and made my way into the adjacent room where country kitchen style tables and chairs were available. I sat down at a long wooden table that was pushed up against a wall that was covered in awards bestowed upon this bakery. As I poked my fork into the warm roll, crumbles (think coffee cake topping) rolled along the side, and the aroma of cinnamon tickled my nose. The roll was scrumptious with the flavors of yeast and cinnamon paired with cream cheese, how could one not devour it? And that I did all the while washing it down with my fresh cup of coffee. The other wall in the dining area had black and white photos which were shot in their kitchen  and framed adding a very classic touch to this vintage feel of a bakery. After finishing my last bite, I returned to the case to take another look as well as browse their gift section of cards, napkins…oh, and there’s another tall case near the window to show off lovely whole cakes and pies. As I sit here typing, I’m wishing for a slice of that fluffy meringue pie I had eyed. As I left, I looked up at a chalkboard hanging in the window and sighed, “Oh no!” The board says that Blue Bonnet Bakery will be relocating down the road. So, if you want to experience this current location, you better head over soon. I guess I have a good reason to visit again…blog about the new location along with a new pastry! Yum!

http://www.bluebonnetbakery.com/