Annecy- The Town That Stole My Heart

Thinking about the mere 24 hours we spent in Annecy seriously fills my heart with so much joy. Once we decided on travelling to the Côte d'Azur, I knew that somehow I had to convince Brandon we needed to stopover in Annecy. Truthfully, just walking though the quintessential French town is something I will never forget. I mean, where else can you encounter the charm of a medieval french town, the grandiose beauty of the Alps, and beautiful flower lined canals that are matched with historic bridges to connect the city? Lac d'Annecy, which is the clearest and most beautiful lake I have ever seen, is sourced from the French Alps and that makes the air so crisp and fresh. We spent our time exploring the cobblestone streets on foot, and bicycling around the lake to find some beautiful views of the Alps.  Although we had to go out of our way to get there (rent a car, and drive 4 hours through the French countryside) it was absolutely worth it. We may have got lost once… or twice, but that gave us the chance to meet some interesting individuals and really take in and appreciate the beauty of the Haute-Savoie region.  Annecy is perfect in many ways, and I hope in looking at this pictures you are able to comprehend its charm and allure. Just being in the presence of this tiny town is truly worth the trek. 

{unfortunately a blurry shot}

Candy Kabobs

Candy kabobs are a treat that will forever take me back to my elementary school birthday party days. My mom and I would go to Bulk Barn, pick out all our favourite candy, skewer them together and wrap them in cellophane for all my guests. Not only do they look cute, but they are delicious (it's candy, what's not to love?!)! I hosted a little BBQ a few weekends ago and decided it would be the perfect occasion to re-create this childhood summer staple. They were a huge hit and they even matched perfectly with the other bright party decor. The best thing about them is that they require literally two elements: candy and skewers. Go wild! 

Mini Peanut Butter Cheesecakes

I knew Brandon's birthday treat would have to combine his two favourites: cheesecake and peanut butter. Since these treats are so decadent I opted for mini versions as they just seemed less intimidating than diving into a whole cheesecake. Although they seem complex they were actually quite simple to make. And are so indulgent!  If you are looking for a rich, peanut buttery, chocolately treat look no further! 

recipe adapted from Oh My God Chocolate Desserts 
makes: 12-14 mini cheesecakes 

Ingredients
Oreo Crust Base:
1 cup Oreo cookie crumbs 
2 tablespoons melted butter

Peanut Butter Cheesecake:
2 bricks (16 oz) of softened cream cheese
1/2 cup smooth peanut butter 
2 eggs
3/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 teaspoon vanilla

Chocolate Ganache:
1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
3 tablespoons heavy cream
1-2 tablespoons powdered sugar

Topping:
7 Reece's Peanut Butter Cups chopped 

Directions
1. Line cupcake tray with cupcake liners. I also sprayed the cupcake lines with non-stick spray to ensure they would pop out easily.
2. Mix together the Oreo crumbs and the melted butter. Spoon 1/2 tablespoon of this mixture into each cupcake liner, pat down with back of spoon. 
3. Bake the crust at 350 degrees for 5 minutes.

4. Using an electric mixer, beat the softened cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth. Add the sugar and beat until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, then add the cream and vanilla until combined.
5. Spoon cheesecake mixture on top of baked crusts. Fill to the brim.
6. Bake again at 350 degrees for 12-15 minutes. When finished let cool and then place in refrigerator for roughly 4 hours to set. 

7. In a microwave safe bowl combine chocolate chips and cream. Microwave until melted using 15 second intervals, stirring in-between, so you don't burn the chocolate. Add powdered sugar to thicken.
8. Remove cupcake liners from cheesecakes. Spoon ganache over cheesecakes and top with chopped Reece's Peanut Butter Cups. Place in fridge to set until cooled.