Sweet Stuff – Page 47 – The Celiathlete

September 24, 2012

Cherbourg Bakery providing Columbus, Ohio with delicious gluten-free & nut-free treats

Restaurant: Cherbourg Bakery, Columbus, Ohio

This review…is long overdo.

Here is my confession –

I actually went into Cherbourg Bakery back on December 31, 2011. I did. Because my friend Jenn had told me about them and while we were out and about that day, we decided to swing by and get some New Years treats. The problem was…we waited a little too long. The bakery was pretty much sold out of everything save for the Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies, a Carrot Cake Muffin, and a Chocolate Cupcake. We actually had our hearts set on the Double Lemon Bars…but they were long gone and the bakery was almost out of treats due to the holiday. Understandable. So, we took one of the items that were left and headed home.

Slices of Cherbourg Bakery's Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie, Carrot Cake Muffin, and Chocolate Cupcake — Slices of Cherbourg Bakery’s Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookie, Carrot Cake Muffin, and Chocolate Cupcake

That night, we split everything three ways and had our first taste of what Cherbourg Bakery could do. The cookie was my favorite thing, which is weird for me since I’m not a fan of oatmeal cookies. But…yeah…these rocked. It was delicate and caramel-y. And the chocolate chips just made it soar. The carrot cake muffin was…pretty good. It was spiced just right for a carrot cake, but it didn’t compare to the cookie. And the chocolate cupcake was…good enough. I thought it felt heavy compared to the lightness of the previous two treats, but it was rich, chocolate goodness in one bite. And, yes…I devoured all three.

I had thought to write up my review based on that…but then found that I just couldn’t do it. It wasn’t fair. I wasn’t able to really test them by ordering what I wanted. I had to order what they still had.

But, I had another chance because I often find myself in Columbus, Ohio. So, on the day before I ran in the Air Force Marathon 10K, I was driving past Cherbourg Bakery with my roommate on our way to get coffee at Caribou Coffee and she asked if I wanted to stop in and grab something for me to eat for breakfast, since Caribou has nothing I can really nosh on. I thought this idea was the best idea I heard…so we turned around, parked, and went in.

This time, Cherbourg had everything I could ever dream of and more. Giant blueberry muffins, delicate cookies, the double lemon bars!! They had donuts and brownies and were just brimming with baked goods. I stepped into a gluten-free heaven of baked wonders. And so…when it was my turn to order, I ended up getting a Chocolate Donut (with chocolate icing and sprinkles…because…why not?), a Madeleine Cookie, and one of the Double Lemon Bars. We paid for the treats and left to continue on to the coffee shop.

And I couldn’t wait. I asked my roommate if she wanted to split the Double Lemon Bar right then. Of course she agreed. So, there in the car, I somehow managed to half the creamy, lemony bar in half. I handed her a napkin and her half of the bar and before I could even pick mine up, she had taken a bite and was already in love with it. When I took my bite of the lemon bar, I now understood why these were so popular. The Double Lemon Bar is a refreshing treat with every bite. It is a shortbread cookie base with a very lemony center. Dusted with powdered sugar, you get the right balance of sweetness and tart, while the shortbread cookie lends a buttery, much-needed savoriness to temper the hit of lemon. It was one of the best things I have ever eaten…no joke. In fact, I loved them so much, that when I was at the hotel in Dayton the night before the race, I called the bakery and ordered three more, so Jenn, Cathy and I could each indulge in one for dessert that evening.

Upon arriving at Caribou Coffee, Cathy ordered her breakfast sandwich and got our caffeine for the morning. We took up residence at one of the tables to enjoy the rest of our breakfast. Once she received her breakfast sandwich, I popped open the bakery box and now had to decide if I wanted to eat the donut first or the Madeleine.

Cherbourg Bakery's Chocolate Donut with Chocolate Icing and Sprinkles — Cherbourg Bakery’s Chocolate Donut with Chocolate Icing and Sprinkles

I decided to sample both…but I started with the Chocolate Donut. I broke off a piece of the round, baked wonder and loved how light it felt. Yes…even with the icing and sprinkles. It wasn’t dense or too heavy, especially for a cake-like donut. I was already impressed. Then, I popped it into my mouth…and truly fell under the spell of Cherbourg once again. The donut was moist and rich, the chocolate flavor the start. The chocolate icing melted away, really adding to the stunning richness of this donut. I had to gobble it up. I just couldn’t stop myself. I did pause long enough to share a piece with my roommate, who also expressed a deep love of the chocolate flavor, the light texture, and the all-around awesomeness of the bite. Yeah…it was one perfect chocolate iced chocolatey bite.

And last, but certainly not least was the little Madeleine cookie. Madeleines are classic French teacake cookies. And these had the perfect shell shape to them and everything. I was intrigued by it. And when I broke off my first bite and tasted it…I was forever hooked on these French classics. Cherbourg delivers a buttery, light flavor with every soft bite of these little teacakes. I was enamored by it. I, once again, shared a piece with my roommate and she was also blown away. Considering she doesn’t have to eat gluten-free, hearing her praise the items that I am able to eat made me so happy. I was in absolute love with the products I chose that morning to sample.

Cherbourg Bakery's Madeleine Cookie — Cherbourg Bakery’s Madeleine Cookie

So, while this review might be a little late, it was definitely worth the wait. I wanted to be fair to Cherbourg Bakery when I wrote it. I wanted to critique it on items I truly would order, not just on what was left in stock. I’m glad I waited because it yielded a much better review overall. Now, every time I happen to be in Columbus (like this coming weekend…) I am going to make Cherbourg Bakery a stop. They have muffins, bars, breads, brownies and cakes that have still yet to be sampled. And I hear their seasonal Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bars are one of the most exciting gluten-free goodies ever. And the Monster Blueberry Muffins seem to be calling my name as well.

Cherbourg Bakery, I hope that you live long and prosper in Columbus, Ohio. I know that I’ll frequent you whenever I find myself there. Which is quite often with one of my best friends living there. Keep on rocking those baked goods. What you do is wonderful for the gluten-free community. I have been singing your praises and bragging about you ever since.

I have a feeling…the best is yet to come.

Cherbourg Bakery's Double Lemon Bar — Cherbourg Bakery’s Double Lemon Bar

September 23, 2012September 23, 2012

Recipe: Gluten-Free & Vegan Carrot Cake Pancakes with a Light Vegan Cream Cheese Icing

With the success of my carrot cake experiment…I happened to have a lot of carrots left from my CSA bin. While I definitely used some to chop up for salads and the like, I didn’t want any to go to waste. And I was getting ready to head out of town for the weekend. So…what does one do when it’s early in the morning and you’re staring at a bunch of carrots? Shred them up and throw them into pancakes, of course.

I’m a runner. I love pancakes.

This gluten-free and vegan recipe is simple to make…and simply delicious. I topped mine off with a light vegan cream cheese icing which is also easy. I made mine ahead and put it in the fridge, then pulled it out when I got up in the morning to let it soften up before I applied it to the top of the pancakes.

Recipe: Gluten-Free & Vegan Carrot Cake Pancakes with a Light Vegan Cream Cheese Icing

Servings: 6
Time: Prep 10 minutes; Cook 15 minutes

Ingredients for pancakes:

5 3/5 ounces (about 1 1/4 cups) all-purpose flour (I used Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-Free All Purpose Flour)
1/4 cup chopped dry roasted peanuts (or you can use toasted walnuts, but I had peanuts on hand)
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg
1 dash ground cloves
1 dash ground ginger
1/4 cup brown sugar
3/4 cup low-fat buttermilk (I used unsweetened almond milk)
1 tablespoon pure pumpkin (I used Libby’s)
1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons unsweetened apple sauce
2 cups (about 1 pound) finely grated carrot

Ingredients for light vegan cream cheese icing:

4 ounces of vegan cream cheese (I used Galaxy Nutritional Foods Vegan Cream Cheese)
2 tablespoons butter (I used Earth Balance Vegan Buttery Sticks)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
3 cups of confectioners sugar, sifted

Directions:

Make the pancakes:

Weigh or lightly spoon flour into dry measuring cups, and level with a knife.

Combine flour and next 7 ingredients (through ginger) in a large bowl, stirring with a whisk.

Combine 1/4 cup brown sugar and next 4 ingredients (through applesauce), stirring just until moist.

Fold in carrot.

Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and coat the pan with cooking spray.

Spoon 4 1/4-cup batter mounds onto pan, spreading with a spatula.

Cook for 2 minutes or until tops are covered with bubbles and edges look cooked. Carefully turn pancakes over; cook 1 minute or until bottoms are lightly browned.

Repeat procedure twice with remaining batter.

Make the icing:

Place the cream cheese and butter in a medium-size mixing bowl and beat with an electric mixer on low speed until combined, 30 – 45 seconds.

Stop the machine and add the vanilla and 1 cup of the confectioners’ sugar. Beat with the mixer on low speed until combined, 30 seconds.

Add another cup of sugar and beat on low speed until combined, 15 seconds.

Add the remaining cup of confectioners’ sugar and beat until smooth, 15 – 30 seconds.

Increase the mixer speed to medium and beat the frosting until fluffy, 30 seconds longer.

Spread on top of pancakes and garnish with chopped nuts and a drizzle of maple syrup, if desired.

~*~*~

The end result is fluffy, delicious carrot cake pancakes that taste just like a carrot cake. For real. Even a co-worker of mine got to sample one and she said it tasted even better than carrot cake. She doesn’t even like vegetables, so that was a high compliment. And…she is neither gluten-free nor a vegetarian/vegan…so the compliment meant even more when she gave it.

My roommate devoured these every morning I had them. I made up the entire batch and then we had a couple mornings worth. These reheat very well in the microwave and the icing makes plenty to get you through…with some left over. I just used that on another carrot cake recipe I’ll share a little later.

Want to change up breakfast…maybe get in a serving of vegetables first thing? Treat yourself to some gluten-free and vegan carrot cake pancakes. Top them off with the cream cheese icing and savor each bite.

September 22, 2012

Simply Organic makes gluten-free carrot cake a simple pleasure

Product: Simply Organic Gluten-Free Carrot Cake Mix – $5.49+

My CSA bin sometimes surprises me. Not that I don’t know what I am getting each week. But the fact of the matter is that sometimes what I get is so much more than I expected. For example…this past bin I received was to have organic carrots in it. And they did. Huge. Beautiful carrots.

And I thought to myself…what can I make with carrots?

My first thought…carrot cake. I’ve been craving carrot cake since I went gluten-free. I haven’t had the time nor the ingredients to make one myself. But here I had big, beautiful organic carrots in my hand. I found a recipe for one and had pretty much everything for it. I set out grocery shopping and was beginning to find myself outside of my budget. The thought of creating salads from these amazing carrots just didn’t seem right. But, as I was thinking it…I glanced up at my new favorite grocery store and there on the baking rack was a cake mix. A gluten-free cake mix.

Simply Organic Gluten-Free Carrot Cake Mix (baked)

Simply Organic’s Gluten-Free Carrot Cake Mix.

Well…right here was the answer to my problem. The mix pretty much did the work. I just had to add water, 2 eggs, and 1 cup of shredded carrots. And I already had all of that back at my apartment. Awesome. I figured I might as well give it a try. Gluten-free baking on a budget is sometimes a necessary evil. I pretty much would prefer to make everything from scratch…but money has been tight recently thanks to the injury to my foot. You work with what you can and do what you can in the budget you have sometimes.

I must say…I had my doubts as to how good a boxed carrot cake could be.

But, determined to make it before my carrots went bad, I stayed up late the other night and gave the Simply Organic Gluten-Free Carrot Cake a shot. Really easy to put together. Just put eggs, lightly beaten, water, and cake mix into a bowl. Mix together, then fold in the carrots. Pour into prepared cake pan and bake according to the directions on the box. I was milling about in the kitchen as this was baking and it smelled heavenly. So, that was a good start, I thought. When it cooked for 40 minutes, I removed it from the oven, made sure it was cooked through, and let it cool. It felt soft and bounced back like a sponge when I tested it for doneness. Maybe it was possible to get a moist carrot cake from a box.

Simply Organic Gluten-Free Carrot Cake (topped with Homemade Vegan Light Cream Cheese Frosting)

Once it cooled, I tipped it out of the cake pan and prayed that it wouldn’t crumble and fall apart on me. Much to my delight, it emerged in perfect round cake form. I did a happy dance of joy and then got to work on my Vegan Light Cream Cheese Icing (the cake isn’t vegan, but my icing is). With the cooled cake waiting for me, I spread the icing over the top and then immediately cut into it to try. I didn’t care that it was 10:30 p.m. I really wanted to try it before I put it in the refrigerator.

Let me tell you, I was elated with this mix. I shouldn’t discount all cake mixes…but a fresh carrot cake always is the best option. A dry carrot cake (like what you buy in stores) is not what I like. Well, this was amazing. Very light. Very soft. Moist. Amazing. My roommate doesn’t like carrot cake, but she told me she liked this one. And she ate a very large piece of it for dessert the other night. I had one too. And was quite content to polish off my plate. The cream cheese icing is the perfect compliment to this moist carrot cake.

Simply Organic uses organic ingredients in their cake mixes. To make this one gluten-free, Simply Organic amps up the flavor by using robust maple granules and brown rice flour. It has just a hint of spice, and the delicious flavor of carrot cake. You can’t even tell it wasn’t done from scratch.

I hope to try more of Simply Organic’s gluten-free baking mixes in the future. But this one will definitely find it’s way back into my pantry for sure. I already am craving another slice. Good thing there is one in the refrigerator waiting on me…

A slice of Simply Organic Gluten-Free Carrot Cake with a Homemade Vegan Cream Cheese Icing

September 22, 2012

I’m glad I know where Highland Coffee Company is!

Restaurant: Highland Coffee Company, Louisville, Kentucky

Awhile back, I lost my favorite local coffee shop in Louisville, Kentucky. I went there every weekend and enjoyed a delicious latte or mocha made with almond milk. They diligently knew what to leave out because they knew I was lactose intolerant. And then…without warning…they were closed. Gone. And I have had a coffee void in Louisville ever since.

That changed. In a big way. Today.

I knew of Highland Coffee Company. I drove by it every time I headed down to Bardstown Road. They used to have this amazing sign…until Urban Outfitters moved in. But, that hasn’t kept people from this little gem. Sign or no sign, this place was packed when we showed up. I can see what all the buzz (get it…coffee…buzz…heh heh…) is about.

I wasn’t sure what to expect when we strolled in. I just knew what the locals were saying. And it was all good. Since the sign came down, there had been an outpouring of support from local businesses on both sides of the river because, let’s face it, Highland Coffee Company is sort of off the beaten track. And to anyone unfamiliar with the area…you could drive right by it and never even know it was there.

Sad. Honestly. Because it’s nothing short of awesome.

After a moment of looking over the menu board, both my roomie and I were already set with what we were going to get. She ordered first…a small mocha with skim milk and some of their homemade chocolate whipped cream ($3.45). As for me…I first asked if they had almond milk…and they did. And I jumped up and down with joy for a moment. And with that happy bit of knowledge, I ordered a small pumpkin spice latte with almond milk ($4.00). And as we were being rang up at the register, Cathy spotted the gluten-free goodies on the counter. Gluten-Free Brownies and Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread. The gluten-free pumpkin bread ($3.50) was screaming my name…so Cathy and I decided that we would split a slice of it.

Highland Coffee Company's Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread — Highland Coffee Company’s Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread

Let me start by saying this…I loved that they had the gluten-free items away from the regular stuff in the case. These were out and tightly wrapped on the counter. Much appreciation for that. That means they are taking extra care to make sure no cross-contamination happened. And for this gluten-free girl…I love that.

The pumpkin bread was unwrapped and placed on a plate for us…with two forks. It looked moist and awesome. I was just too happy about it. I thanked them and took the plate to a table while Cathy went and waited for our drinks. While I was waiting, I went ahead and sliced the pumpkin bread in half. And then…it looked so amazing, I just couldn’t wait any longer. I took a bite of my half.

For anyone who thinks that gluten-free baked goods taste funny, are heavy, or have a strange texture…then they are eating in all the wrong places. For real. This Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread was moist, light, and simply delicious. I love pumpkin and this had the right amount of flavor and spic without being overdone. It was a great treat to enjoy as a late-morning snack.

Then…our coffees came up to order. Cathy got hers first and came to set it on the table. Mine was being remade because the barista realized after she steamed the milk that I ordered almond milk and she did whole milk. That would have set my stomach into a tizzy, yes? Anyway…they got it straightened out and my almond milk pumpkin spice latte was up in no time.

Cathy brought the drinks over to the table…and it was go-time. I took my first sip and have to say…anything Starbucks does, Highland Coffee Company does better. WAY better. I fell in love with their pumpkin spice latte. Simple flavor. The pumpkin wasn’t overdone or overpowering. It was just pure flavor with a great shot of espresso. The pour was perfect. No bitterness. And definitely not too weak. It was love at first sip.

I think I found my new favorite coffee spot in Louisville, Kentucky. For real. Because they cater to people like me. They have dairy-free options. Gluten-free options. Amazing employees. A great atmosphere. And really good food and coffee. I’m once again in love with a local coffee shop in Louisville.

If you haven’t found Highland Coffee Company yet…get down to Bardstown Road in Louisville, Kentucky. Look for Urban Outfitters. Turn into the lot and walk into the place under the giant coffee cup. You’ll feel right at home. And, much like me, you’ll anticipate your next visit and already be thinking of what to try next.

Happiness does come served in a cup. At Highland Coffee Company anyway.

Highland Coffee Company's Pumpkin Spic Latte with Almond Milk — Highland Coffee Company’s Pumpkin Spice Latte with Almond Milk

September 12, 2012

Forget a boring bowl! Edward & Sons Let’s Do…Gluten-Free Ice Cream Cones bring a little joy back to ice cream

Product: Edward & Sons Let’s Do…Gluten-Free Ice Cream Cones – $3.99+

I never, ever thought I would miss ice cream cones. I mean…they often get soggy, and sometimes can be a bit messy. So, it’s always a bowl for me. And when I’m out at an ice cream shoppe or a fro yo place, that’s the way it has to be. Gluten-free isn’t offered just anywhere. And around here…it’s practically non-existent. At those kinds of places…it’s all about the bowl, cup, or whatever it is served in.

No cone.

And I never thought anything about it.

But then my local grocery store was running a closeout on their gluten-free aisle. Which, immediately sent me into a panic. What if they were getting rid of all of this? What if I’d have to really just start shopping at the expensive natural food stores (I would do it…but my food budget is already crazy!)? What if all of this was going away never to be seen again? I literally grabbed a cart and my roommate and I began piling things inside. Whatever we felt we would most definitely like to try, already knew we liked, and just were curious about.

One of the boxes that made the gluten-free closeout cut…was Edward & Sons Let’s Do…Gluten-Free Ice Cream Cones.

Now, growing up my mom used to buy ice cream cones and would scoop up some amazing ice cream into it. And we, as a family, would enjoy this for dessert. During the summer months in my small town, a little restored barn up the way sold ice cream (soft serve) and we would always go down there for dessert. They knew our order and had it ready when our car turned in. It was a treat. And we are an ice cream loving family. Despite lactose intolerance…I still am very much this way.

So, yeah…while I never thought I would miss that crunch of an ice cream cone…I discovered…I did.

With some So Delicious Dairy-Free Ice Creams in the freezer, last night I was looking for something easy for dessert. It could have been ice cream…or cookies. But, I have been craving ice cream. And I had a bad day, and my roommate mentioned ice cream. And I knew there was no getting to The Comfy Cow on a weeknight, so…ice cream at home it was. But…then it dawned on me that we had those gluten-free ice cream cones as well. So as I finished up my dishes, I asked her to go grab them. It was going to be an ice cream cone night!

Out of the freezer came So Delicious Dairy Free Chocolate Velvet Soy Milk Ice Cream (OMG YUM!!!). And I carefully opened up the box of Edward & Sons Let’s Do…Gluten-Free Ice Cream Cones.

They looked like every ice cream cone my mom ever bought for us growing up. They looked like the standard kids cones you would get at an ice cream parlor these days. The only thing was…these were gluten-free. So…I could eat them!! I dished up a serving of the rich, decadent chocolate ice cream into each done (one for me; one for my roomie) and we settled in for a true treat indeed.

As with any cone, it takes a moment to get down to it. First you have to devour the ice cream piled on top. I did that, lick-by-lick, savoring, and anticipating that cone. And when I got there…I discovered it was worth the wait. First of all, these cones did not get soggy. At all. They held their shape and their crunch as I worked my way through it. Second of all…the flavor was just as good, if not better, as the ice cream cones I grew up eating, at home or at the ice cream parlors. Honestly. And the best part is…these cones only set you back 12 calories. Yes. 12. Twelve. 1-2. They are fat free, sugar-free, gluten-free, and vegan! In other words…my dream ice cream cone.

They taste sweet without being too sweet. In fact, it is more of a compliment to the ice cream that is stuffed inside. The crunch is fantastic…not too soft and not too hard. But it adds that bit of texture to the ice cream experience. Man…I was one happy girl sitting on my couch enjoying a good old-fashioned vegan ice cream cone with vegan ice cream.

If the little things in life are what make people happy, then a simple gluten-free ice cream cone brought me one of the happiest moments of my life. And I had another one tonight. I’m not ashamed. In fact, I’m hooked. I don’t think I’ll ever not have ice cream cones in this house.

Thank you, Edward & Sons…for such a simple treat that even the gluten-intolerant can once again enjoy.

Edward & Sons Let's Do...Gluten-Free Ice Cream Cone topped with So Delicious Dairy Free Chocolate Velvet Soy Milk Ice Cream — Edward & Sons Let’s Do…Gluten-Free Ice Cream Cone topped with So Delicious Dairy Free Chocolate Velvet Soy Milk Ice Cream

September 10, 2012

Chocolate Velvet from So Delicious Dairy Free means rich chocolate soy milk ice cream treat

Product: So Delicious Dairy Free Chocolate Velvet Soy Milk Ice Cream – $6.99+

There is nothing more satisfying after a bad day then to treat yourself to something that might make it better. Some people turn to drinking. Not me. Nope.

When I have a bad day…I turn to chocolate. More often than not…chocolate ice cream.

But wait…I’m lactose intolerant.

It’s okay…because there is amazing, rich, decadent, smooth non-dairy ice creams out there. Sure, they cost a lot more than regular ice cream, but…they can be just as amazing. And it is really fun to play around with the base and check out the differences. I mean, there is ice cream made from almond milk, coconut milk, rice milk, soy milk, etc.

Well…it had been a bad day. I went for a run to work off some steam, clear my head, and came home for dinner. But I still felt wound up. What I needed was chocolate.

And thanks to a sale at my local grocery store a couple of weeks back, I just happened to have some So Delicious Dairy Free Chocolate Velvet Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert in my fridge. In other words…soy milk ice cream.

Now, I really enjoyed the So Delicious Dairy Free Neapolitan Ice Cream I tried awhile back, so I had an idea that this would live up to the “so delicious” part of the brand. Little did I know how much it would live up to it.

Some women would blame the quickness of which I ate this on stress. Not me. I’ll be honest…while I was still stressed, despite a run and relaxing at dinner, one bite of the Chocolate Velvet and I was unstoppable. That was all it took. Hoovering now in process. My only saving grace was that I put it on a gluten-free ice cream cone (because bad days mean you get ice cream in a cone!), which meant I had to at least eat a little slower and savor it a little.

So, I did manage to do that. Here’s the thing…So Delicious can put that brand on their products because they always live up to it. In fact, I would wager to say that the Chocolate Velvet goes beyond being So Delicious into So Epically Mind Blowing Delicious. It’s rich. It’s smooth. And it has the same texture of ice cream. So, it’s like indulging in the stuff I crave…only better for me. Perhaps not calorie-wise (1/2 cup is 130 calories, and 3.5 grams of fat), but it’s far better than some decadent chocolate ice creams out there, which can top over 200 calories per 1/2 cup serving.

This soy-based non-dairy dessert tastes like a rich, sinful ice cream you would get at a parlor. It’s like frozen fudge…with all it’s creamy, chocolate taste. Yeah…I think I have a new favorite. Now, the difficult part will be not raiding my freezer when a chocolate craving hits. After all…it’s a dessert…a treat. I shall treat it as that.

As with many of So Delicious Dairy Free frozen treats, this non-dairy dessert is gluten-free, vegan and kosher. It is non-GMO certified and completely organic. It doesn’t taste or feel heavy. In fact, for an ice cream…it’s on the light side and after a meal, you want a light dessert just to cleanse the palate. This…is an ideal one.

If you are a chocoholic and want to try a new frozen dessert…try something out of the norm (or, like me, in the norm). Go dairy free and try on So Delicious for size. Honestly…once you taste the Chocolate Velvet…you’ll want to grab the quart and a spoon and go to town.

So Delicious Dairy Free Chocolate Velvet Soy Milk Ice Cream on an Edward & Sons Gluten-Free Ice Cream Cone

September 7, 2012

Say “Hello” to Yasso Raspberry Frozen Greek Yogurt Bars

Product: Yasso Raspberry Frozen Greek Yogurt Bars – $3.99+

It was a manager’s special at my local grocery store that compelled me to pick up these frozen treats as a dessert option. One thing that caught my attention immediately was the 6 grams of protein boasted about on the box. As a gluten-free vegetarian…protein is important to me. And Greek yogurt is often packed with it. Turn that Greek yogurt into a frozen yogurt bar and…the potential for deliciousness is elevated.

With these yogurt bars, you get one nutrition packed dessert. That’s another great thing about these bars. For one thing, these rather large frozen bars pack only 70 calories and, as mentioned before, 6 grams of protein. They are all gluten-free, fat-free, and all natural. The dairy portion is made with rBST-free milk. This makes these bars an amazing source of calcium. In addition, these are kosher certified and contain no corn syrup. How is that for some accolades?

As for the name? Yasso is derived from the Greek word Yassou, which means “hello.”

Yasso Raspberry Frozen Greek Yogurt Bar (wrapped)

The only flavor available on manager’s special at the grocery store was the Raspberry flavor. While raspberry isn’t my roommate’s favorite, we both decided that these would certainly be worth a try. So…we put them in our cart, checked out, and placed them in our freezer.

After working through some of the desserts ahead of these, we finally cracked these open yesterday to try.

These bars are actually a really good size for an ice cream treat. Honestly. Most of the time a 70 calorie treat is itty-bitty. Not these. These were the size of a regular ice cream bar, but these are enjoyed without any guilt. I mean…did you take in all those nutrition stats I listed above? The flavor is all there. And the thickness of the Greek yogurt is prevalent without. But all this meant to me was that I got to savor the frozen treat a little longer. And that’s what I did.

Nothing wrong with savoring that sweet treat at the end of the meal for a little longer, right? These are available in three flavors: Raspberry, Strawberry, and Blueberry.

I enjoyed the taste of these bars. The thick Greek yogurt makes an amazing frozen treat and the raspberry flavor is the star. It really tastes like raspberry. I was blown away. And no funky Greek yogurt aftertaste either.

If I’m craving something sweet without the guilt…I would totally pick these up again. Highly recommended if you are looking for a nice treat to beat the heat…without losing that bathing suit body!

Yasso Raspberry Frozen Greek Yogurt Bar (unwrapped)

September 6, 2012

Amazing attention to food allergies and flavor at Adobo Grill in Indianapolis, Indiana

Restaurant: Adobo Grill, Indianapolis, Indiana

I almost backed out of going to this amazing Mexican restaurant on account of not feeling well due to dehydration brought on from a red flagged half marathon that morning. I wasn’t feeling good all day and I wasn’t sure how well my stomach would handle Mexican food being fed to it after the abuse I put it through just to get through the race.

In the end, however, I am glad I decided to go. And for the record…I actually was hungry when I stepped into the restaurant with my roomie and actually could smell the authentic Mexican cuisine as other diners enjoyed their meals. Yeah…Cathy made a good choice when she set up reservations for this restaurant prior to the race.

What made her choose this over say…the place up the way with gluten-free pizza? The answer was quite simple. Adobo Grill in Indianapolis had rave reviews on Find Me Gluten Free’s Web site. And with that sort of piece of mind, we both knew that this would at least be a decent dining experience if nothing else. The food, my friends, aside from the safety and the way gluten-free options were handled, was the highlight.

Upon entering the restaurant, we were greeted by a hostess who took us to a nice booth in a dimly lit dining room. The entire restaurant was decorated in warm colors, reds and oranges especially, which are said to stimulate appetite. It was working. I was…for the first time all day…actually a little hungry. We were left menus and our server came to our table to pour us some water and see if we wanted anything else to drink. As I still felt dehydrated, I stuck purely with the water. So did Cathy.

Then, we mentioned that I was medically gluten-free and the waiter said he would take my menu and return with one specifically for me. Yes…their gluten-free menu. I absolutely love when places have menus specifically for those who need to eat gluten-free. It really puts my mind to ease to some extent. What was even better was that this menu had more than just a few selections on them and many of the options were vegetarian.

Happy dance of joy. The waiter gave me another moment to look over the options and I finally made my decision.

Adobo Grill's Guacamole (prepared table side) — Adobo Grill’s Guacamole (prepared table side)

First of all, both Cathy and I decided to split an appetizer of the Guacamole ($7.99). What makes this guacamole a must-have is that it is prepared table side. Yes. It is made right before your very eyes. You see everything that goes into it. No need to question how it is made or anything. And it was so much fun to see the woman roll the cart over with all the makings and a stone bowl. She asked us how hot we wanted our guacamole. Cathy said I like hot and she likes mild, so we’d settle on a medium. The very gracious server nodded and began the art of table side guacamole preparation. The best part was at the end, when she speedily sliced an avocado in half, hit the pit with the knife to remove it, then scooped it into the bowl with the rest of the fixings and…mashed it all together. Then it was set on the table and we were left with our chips and ready to enjoy. I spooned up a helping onto my plate and took a bite.

Rich. Creamy. Packed with flavor. I loved the hit of lime juice which would follow up each bite. It was one of the more delicious guacamoles that I have eaten. I didn’t find it to pack any heat at all, which was good for Cathy…but I do like a bit of heat with mine. But that was not an issue as the flavors were all there and none of them overpowered the rest. I could taste everything. I loved the chunkiness of the texture and how amazing it tasted when it all came together. Love at first bite.

Adobo Grill's Enchiladas de Calabaza — Adobo Grill’s Enchiladas de Calabaza

For my entree, I chose the Enchiladas de Calabaza ($14.99). It’s their vegetarian enchilada option on the menu. Enchiladas just sounded like the perfect meal that night. And now that my stomach wasn’t feeling so…blah…I was ready for something of actual sustenance. The Enchiladas de Calabaza are corn tortillas packed with roasted butternut squash & mushrooms and then coated in creamy tomatillo salsa with cheese & red onion on top. Sour cream usually accompanies this, but I’ve never been a fan so I asked that they not include it. It came with a side of black beans. A large serving of black beans to be exact. But, I figured after the race…the protein was much needed.

Yummy. No. Really, really yummy! What I loved about this enchilada was the various flavors that came out of each bite. The butternut squash was sweet, but paired so well with the umami, earthly flavors of the mushrooms. The sauce, the corn, the onion…the pico de gallo and the cheese all brought it together. And when I would scoop up a bite with some of the seasoned and creamy black beans…it was magic. Honestly. I loved the fantastic, savory flavors that would emerge with each bite. I was in love with this meal and devoured it all. Dehydration and upset stomach be damned…this was fantastic food, bite-for-bite, and I was hungry for more.

For the record, Cathy enjoyed her Enchiladas de Mariscos, which are enchiladas filled with shrimp, tilapia, grilled peppers, corn and cheese and basted in fresh corn-chipotle salsa. She also nixed the sour cream, but it came with the pico de gallo, a side of Mexican rice and a side of black beans ($14.99)

Well…I was actually quite full, but figured I needed something to celebrate with. So when our server returned, Cathy and I inquired as to what would be gluten-free on the dessert menu. The server said the Chocolate Tamal would be without the cookie/cake part. But he would check on the rest. When he returned, he said the Flan was gluten-free and Ice Cream was gluten-free.

Instead of sharing a dessert, Cathy and I decided we’d each order one. I got the Flan ($4.99), which is a traditional vanilla custard with caramel sauce. Cathy got the Chocolate Tamal ($5.99), which we thought would be done gluten-free, but it came out regular for her. So I didn’t get to sample it. But it looked fantastic…sort of a chocolate cake/cookie wrapped like a tamale and served with vanilla bean ice cream, chocolate sauce and dried cranberries.

This was the first time I ever had Flan. And I was really impressed with it. It felt light, despite being a custard. The caramel sauce didn’t take away from the vanilla flavor. It was used as more of a topping and garnish than anything. And…there was a strawberry on top…which, naturally I saved for the very last bite. I was full when I finished eating. Stuffed, really. But I found this meal to be well worth going to that extreme. I don’t eat like that often, but my appetite was back with a vengeance and it was time to really celebrate getting through that difficult race.

Sure…the meal was pricey. But we were eating in the heart of downtown Indianapolis. It’s going to be pricey. The important thing was I was able to eat there without feeling ill afterwards. They took my gluten intolerance very seriously and provided me with a fantastic, safe dinner. And after the rough day I had, it was just what I needed. I felt full, but great as I meandered out the door after dinner and back to the hotel.

Would I return to Adobo Grill next time I’m in Indianapolis? In a heartbeat. Highly recommended for those who can’t have gluten…and for those who can. As both my roomie and I enjoyed our meals and raved about them the entire time we were eating. Authentic Mexican food done authentically right and to perfection. Yeah…I’d eat there again. No problem.

August 30, 2012August 30, 2012

Squeeze in fresh fruit with Jolly Llama Banana Coconut Real Fruit Sorbet Squeezeups

Jolly Llama Banana Coconut Real Fruit Sorbet Squeezups

Product: Jolly Llama Banana Coconut Real Fruit Sorbet Squeezeups – $4.99+

I’m going to be honest…what really caught my eye at the natural food store with this product was the name: Jolly Llama. Why? Well, my roommate, Cathy, is nicknamed Llama, so it sort of stood up and waved as if to say, “Take me home!” The only flavor lurking in the freezer section was banana coconut. Now…I’m nuts over banana…but coconut…it usually needs to be mixed in with something before I can truly enjoy it. I figured…it’s a frozen goodie…I’ll deal.

Besides…the company that makes them is named Jolly Llama.

Banana Coconut just happens to be one of the newest flavors in the Jolly Llama line-up of real fruit sorbet squeezeups. Other flavors include mango, blueberry, strawberry, raspberry, and the other new flavor on the block – peach. All of these fruity frozen goodies are fat free, save for the banana coconut, which has naturally occurring fat in the fresh ingredients.

Oh…yes…there is that little bit too. Every ingredient that goes into these sorbet squeezeups are made with only the healthiest, highest quality ingredients. It’s the belief of the founder, Scott Jacobson, that desserts don’t have to be loaded down with ingredients that are unhealthy or not up-to-par. A quick inspection of the ingredients in the banana coconut variety shows this. You don’t question anything listed on the box. Natural. And that’s how I like my treats.

Jolly Llama Banana Coconut Real Fruit Sorbet Squeezeup

In addition, these frozen goodies from Jolly Llama are allergen free, fat free (save for the naturally occurring fat in the banana coconut), dairy free, non-GMO certified, kosher, and have no artificial ingredients. How can you go wrong with that?

Well, tonight I found out that there really isn’t a way to go wrong with that combination. When I opened up this pack after dinner tonight for dessert, my roommate and I were both a little nervous. Not because we didn’t think it was a good product. It was the flavor we had. With no other option, and neither of us too big of a fan of coconut…we weren’t quite sure what to expect.

Let me tell you this…expect the best because that’s what these sorbet squeezeups deliver. Honestly. The banana coconut version tastes like a frozen banana. It was so delicious. I was in pure heaven, as bananas are one of my favorite fruits out there. The coconut isn’t even really in the flavor at all. This is made to perfection too. It’s cold without freezing your entire mouth off. This means you can easily bite into it without setting off those sensitive teeth. Love that.

If you are a big fruit lover…I highly recommend checking out your grocer’s freezer section for Jolly Llama. I found mine at our natural food store, but I’ve also seen them at Whole Foods. So, that is a good place to start. And, honestly, when your dessert is made from fresh fruit and sugar levels come from the fruits and the evaporated cane juice…well it makes your dessert or treat feel that much better for you. I say indulge in these and try every flavor possible. I hope to find more flavors to try…but I’ll never, ever turn down one of the banana coconut ones. Very delicious. For the record…there are four in a box. So…savor…and enjoy.

August 30, 2012

Envirokidz Amazon Frosted Flakes are gluten-free and GRRRREAT!

Envirokidz Gluten-Free Amazon Frosted Flakes

Product: Envirokidz Organic Amazon Frosted Flakes – $3.99+

No Tony the Tiger here. Sorry, cereal lovers.

Instead, however, you find something so much better. Instead of loading up on 11 grams of sugar in the morning (which is what you’ll do with Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes), try something that tastes just as good, if not better than the original with a fraction of the sugar content.

Thanks to Nature’s Path Envirokidz Line, those sugary-sweet cereals made by the big corporation are getting a run for their money. Envirokidz version of Frosted Flakes are simply called Amazon Frosted Flakes. Instead of being made with milled corn, sugar, salt and malt flavoring…this variety offers a lot of the same flavor with better ingredients and better nutritional standings.

Envirokidz Amazon Frosted Flakes are made from organic corn meal, organic evaporated cane juice and salt. That’s it. The sugar content in this cereal is only 6 grams per 3/4 cup serving. That’s 5 grams less sugar than the same size serving of Frosted Flakes. I love good cereal but I don’t like to be powered by high sugar content. What Envirokidz Amazon Frosted Flakes does is pack all the amazing flavor of Frosted Flakes into a gluten-free cereal. I might even like it better. Granted, it has been since I was a kid since I really sat down to a bowl of Frosted Flakes, but I remember really liking them. When I had to go gluten-free, I had to give up a lot of the cereals I used to eat or might have gone back to eating…and was left with the gluten-free line-up in grocery stores.

Envirokidz does it right every time. With no extra additives or preservatives, what you are getting is the purest form of the cereal. Nothing unnecessary. I also loved that I left this cereal to swim in a bath of unsweetened almond milk while I finished cutting up a peach this morning and when I finally took my first bite, the texture and crunch were there. They didn’t get soggy and leave me with a bowl full of mush flakes. This made me beyond happy.

The sweetness of the cereal is brought out by the evaporated cane juice. It isn’t too much, but it doesn’t leave you reaching for a sweetener either. It’s perfection in a box. I found the taste and texture to be a complete win.

Gluten-free breakfast cereal doesn’t have to taste like cardboard. Nor do you always just have to stick with Chex. What Nature’s Path has done with the Envirokidz line is make amazing, healthy cereals that are free of gluten and just as delicious as the corporate counterparts of my childhood. In some cases, such as this one…even better.

Sorry, Tony the Tiger.