Dean and Deluca

Someone buy me a cake!  Wouldn't this dessert be the star of any party?  I think the hand-piped Dogwood blossoms are charming. 

I just realized that this cake represents what is normally my holiday mantra of "Visual. Edible Givable."  That is the order in which I prepare for any big holiday.  I handle all of the visual elements in the house first (decorating, a change of accessories, plants).  Then I do the baking and candy-making, so that I have something sweet on hand to offer my friends and family.  Then I focus on the gifts - whether I am able to make something or find the perfect gift out in the world.

Anyhoo, I think it is neat that this cake is all three things: visual, edible, givable.  Want one for yourself?  I photographed this beauty at the Dean & Deluca in Georgetown.  I am sure that, with enough notice, any Dean & Deluca could create this masterpiece for you.  Love it! 

Dean and Deluca spices in Georgetown

"Anne, do you want to go in Dean an..."
"Yes!"

It is no big secret that I love to cook. When I saw a Dean & Deluca shop in Georgetown, it instantly moved to the top of my "must visit" list. We had a relaxing day shopping the area and finished with a culinary whirl inside this beautiful store. Long glass cases were filled with the finest meats, salads, cheeses and pastries. Everything was a picture. But what did I choose to represent my trip? A display of their signature spice tins. I have always wanted to have a ridiculously large selection of spices in tins from Dean & Deluca and here they all were before me.

How did the afternoon end? At Dean & Deluca's outdoor gelato bar. I indulged in two beautiful shades of green: pistachio and mint chocolate chip.