On Cheesecakes

It is very important to bring cream cheese and eggs to room temperature before mixing or you'll have a lumpy mess. Mix at low speed to prevent excess air from being incorporated into the batter, as that can be a cause of cracking. To bake evenly and promote creaminess, wrap the outside of the springform pan with a triple thickness of aluminum foil, then place the springform in a large roasting pan, and fill with hot water 1/3 up the side of the springform.

Walnuts and Caramel

Had a thought today to develop a recipe for a spice cupcake--of the large muffin variety--that includes flecks of chocolate and has a filling of gooey, homemade caramel studded with chopped walnuts. I'll frost it with a orange cardamom cream cheese frosting. I'll get right on that.