The first official day of fall is upon us and whether it feels that way where you live or not, the seasons are shifting. Apple orchards here in the southern Appalachian Mountains are filled with fruit and nothing says fall more than delicious, spicy apple treats coming out of the oven. Every year I share apple recipes, but there are … Read More
Flour Power!
Have you ever stood in the baking aisle at the grocery store and wondered why there were so many bags of flour to choose from? Are all the bags pretty much the same, or does it really matter which one you use? I’ll let you in on a little secret all successful bakers know: using the right flour for each … Read More
The Bare Facts on Naked Cake
One of the hottest trends in wedding cakes is the Naked Cake, where the sides of the cakes are exposed with minimal frosting, and often adorned with fruit and/or flowers. As a baker, I welcome the emphasis on the flavor instead of on inedible decorations. And the simple, rustic look pairs well with today’s shiplap-wood pallets-reclaimed wood-farmhouse aesthetic. The good … Read More
Aw, Shucks!
Nothing says summer like fresh corn on the cob especially when it’s hot off the grill. Here are some tasty twists on this classic favorite. Forgive me for sounding “corny” but I’m thankful for seasonal foods when they come around. Whether it’s delicious local strawberries in late spring, vibrant oranges from Florida in the winter, or sweet South Carolina peaches … Read More
Meal Train Vegetable Beef Stew and Apple Walnut Muffins
I’ll give the recipe for this delicious stew in just a moment. But first, I want to say something: I’m a grandma! Davona Ann Upshaw was born on February 12, just one day after my birthday. My oldest daughter, Danielle, actually went into labor on the evening of my birthday, but I think Davona was just being sassy … Read More
Lovin’ These Valentine’s Day Easy Treats!
Put some heart into your Valentine’s Day celebration with these super easy treat ideas! Use canned jumbo cinnamon rolls by re-rolling one side and pinching the middle, to create these super simple breakfast treats. Heart cutouts, brushed with cream and sprinkled with sanding sugar, dress up any pie. Buying pre-made dough makes this even easier. Use the same … Read More
Roasted Veggies Perfect Side Dish
Recently I asked my Daytime viewers to send me their questions to use on a December segment, but I couldn’t answer them all. One of them, from Terri K., was ideas for low cost, easy side dishes that even picky eaters would like. That got me thinking about one of my fav side dishes: roasted vegetables. Back in the day, … Read More
Happy Noon (or New) Year’s Eve!
If you want the entire family to ring in the New Year, but you have little ones that won’t make it ’til midnight, you can celebrate Noon Year’s Eve on Dec. 31st, at 12:00 PM. But no matter when you celebrate, here are some fun party ideas that kids and grownups alike will enjoy. To make an occasion special, present … Read More
Holiday Baking Q & A
This week on Daytime Tri-Cities, we’re answering viewers’ holiday baking questions! Thanks to everyone who submitted a question, but I only had time to go for 13 Q & A’s on the show. Feel free to leave a comment if YOU have a baking/cooking question of your own. Happy Holidays! Jean asks, “I am looking for a recipe for … Read More