Walking in a Winter Wonderland.
A romantic day out in Manchester

Today I experienced something quite magical. Albert Square in Manchester not to be mistaken for the Soap Opera setting in East London, was transformed into what can only be described as a Winter Wonderland. As we approached, I could see the wonderful twinkling light - it was a rather mild December afternoon but as it being the shortest day of the year, you can only imagine it being eerily dark for 2pm. The aromas were tickling my nostrils, as I hadn't eaten a single thing all day I was hoping to sample some of these incredible looking goodies all around me. I was spoilt for choice, there was everything from German Hot Dogs to Paella, Macaroons to Belgium Chocolate covered banana's.
First stop though had to be the famous German beer stall. Not being a big drinker any more I now prefer drinking for pleasure and appreciation rather than to get drunk. The beer had a strong flavour but was cold and crisp, yummm.

Here I am sampling the German beer, I'm not going to lie this got me merrily on my way, no more for Laurie Rose that was for sure.

Henry & I (he could have smiled)
A day out in Manchester never fails to amaze me everytime, I always uncover new wonders. The northern quarter is probably one of my most favourite places to visit, the array of vintage shops, musky vinyl outlets get me lost in wonder.
Definitely a day out for everyone.
Laurie Rose x

No Bake Chocolate Cake

If like me you enjoy the idea of entertaining but come to the day of the gathering you are so far behind on ideas. A planned itinerary which you devised the night before with such conviction, is now already gone to pot as you wake up at least two hours late, find yourself having a dreadful hair day and nothing seems to be going to plan.

You think you'll stick to a recipe you know like the back of your hand - but for desert, your plans of soufflés and beautifully crafted chocolates as goodies have become a distant memory as you realise the kids are writing on the walls and your Dauphionses' are burning.

Well this recipe is perfect, quick and so scrummy, and I can guarantee your guests will LOVE IT! Chocolate lovers, boozy bums and coffee connoisseurs will love all variation of this recipes.

Preparation time: 10 Minutes.

 

Ingredients:

225g 70% Dark Chocolate, Well chopped

225g Heavy Cream

Pinch of Salt

Cocoa Powder to serve

Optional:

25 ml Amaretto

Orange Zest/Juices

2 tsp Finely Ground Espresso

50g Mixed Chopped Nuts (Shelled crushed Pistachio's for Yuletide Gatherings)

Lightly butter a 6 inch loaf tin (any tin/pan will do, I just like the shape)

Line with parchment paper and set to one side.

Barely melt the chocolate in a bowl over a simmering pan of water, in a separate medium pan heat the cream over a gentle heat, at this point add any optional ingredients, when the cream is warm/ hot to the touch but NOT boiling, remove from heat and stir in the salt.

Slowly pour the chocolate into the cream, steadily stir until all the mixture comes together. They must be well combined and not at all separate. Pour the mixture into the ready prepared tin, cover with cling wrap and refrigerate until chilled throughout for a few hours or ideally overnight.

When ready to serve, carefully remove from the tin, let set to room temperature for around ten minutes, dust with cocoa powder, slice and serve with whipped cream.

Serves 12.
Laurie Rose x