Ice Cubed Coffee + Milk

Bringing a bit of whimsy to my food and drink is one of the elements that makes the kitchen an exciting place to be in my world.  Playfulness and creativity up the ante of what's possible and keep me on my epicurean toes.

Sometimes, it's as simple as bringing a new spin or take to an old favorite.  And because I have a thing for beautiful, fancy ice cubes--and the season for iced drinks is squarely upon us--my latest twist is what iced coffee dreams are made of.  A "deconstructed" approach of sorts is how I see luscious coffee cubes + milk + simple syrup (because I like my coffee sweet).

As simple to make as freezing prepared coffee in ice trays, pouring milk on top and sweetening (or not) to taste.  I admit that this twist gets me giddy because the yield is a pretty little drink.  And I love pretty little things--especially in my eats and sips. 

So as the temperatures continue to rise, and remaining cool becomes a higher priority, add this fun, whimsical ice cubed coffee to your sipping repertoire. 

Cheers to more fun in the kitchen...and Happy Sipping!

Toast With This!: Watermelon Agua Fresca

Holding onto Summer until the very end (and possibly beyond) means I'm making the most of the late-season ingredients I have on hand, like luscious, sweet watermelon.  I never need a recipe to indulge (straight from the rind will do just fine), but on a recent occasion I decided to turn it into something extra special--and supremely delicious.  A refreshing, summer-y, mocktail of sorts: Watermelon Agua Fresca.  Because that's what you do with leftover melon, right?

Anyway, it couldn't be simpler--or more perfect--to toast the final week or so of the official season.  So here's to late summer indulgence in all its glory and to...

Happy Sipping!

Watermelon Agua Fresca

Ingredients:
Halved watermelon, cubed and seeds removed
Mint simple syrup (recipe follows)
Juice of 1 1/2 to 2 limes

Method:
Add watermelon to a blender and puree until smooth.  Add in 3 tablespoons to 1/4 cup simple syrup and lime juice and blend to combine.  Check mixture for flavor and add more syrup or lime juice, to taste.

Strain mixture through a sieve and chill.  Serve over ice and enjoy!

Mint Simple Syrup
Ingredients:
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup water
Fresh mint leaves

Method:
Add sugar and water to a small saucepan over medium heat.  Allow sugar to fully dissolve and remove from the heat.  Add mint leaves to the syrup and steep for at least 15 minutes.  Strain syrup into a container and discard mint.   
  

Mint Ice Cubes: {Spring in a Glass}

If you're celebrating the recent arrival of Spring, then you'll want to add this to your list: mint ice cubes.  And if you have to ask why, it's because nothing says Spring (in a glass, at least) like gorgeous, herbal ice cubes.  The bright pop of color, coupled with the extra flair, will take your favorite sips to the next level of toast-worthiness faster than you can say "cheers".

So the next time the occasion calls for it, go ahead and pour. chill. sip. and repeat--with Spring-infused ice cubes!  

Happy Sipping!

Mint Ice Cubes
Ingredients:
Fresh Mint Leaves
Water
Equipment: Ice Trays

Method:
Place a mint leaf in each tray compartment.  Fill with water and freeze.  Enjoy!