We interrupt this program...

What's Up Cupcake has moved! I was able to login to my original account, so while I'm still new to this, I decided to switch over to that location as the name is easier to navigate.  So please, make your way on over to:

http://whatsupcupcake.blogspot.com

And while I was at it, I linked the blog to it's official domain name. So you can also access it at:
http://www.whatsupcupcakeblog.com

Either link will take you to the blog, so just use whichever is easier to remember.  Don't forget to update your subscriptions and RSS Feeds.  See you at the new site!

Sweet Treats Saturday: Caramel Apple Bread

This recipe is kind of cheating. I’ll admit, it’s not completely from scratch, but it’s one of my favorite quick recipes that I make during autumn.  It’s a great twist on a traditional harvest bread recipe and it’s so easy to do.

I started doing this variation years ago when I worked retail at Williams-Sonoma.  They have an apple bread recipe that they used to release seasonally (I think it’s still on a seasonal basis, though it might be an everyday item at this point).  Luckily, you can purchase apple bread mix at many grocery stores, so you don’t have to drop big bucks for this simple treat.  I picked up my mix from Trader Joe’s.

Here’s how it works:

• Prep the batter according to the directions on the mix packet.  Unwrap individual caramels. You will probably only need 8-10 piece depending on how large your loaf pan is.

• Butter or spray your baking pan.  Don’t skip this step as any caramel that touches the pan will stick, so if it is well sprayed, then you should have no worries when it comes time to release the loaf.
• Pour the batter into the pan.  Place caramel pieces throughout the bread.  Do not push them down too far as they will sink/melt during the baking process.  You can coat them in flour, but I find that just gently pressing them into the batter eliminates this step.  Don’t place them too close together as you’ll end up with a big melted mess in the middle of your loaf.

• Bake the bread as directed on the packet.  When checking for doneness, make sure you’re not inserting a toothpick into a caramel piece as you won’t get a proper idea of doneness.

I find this is best serves warm when the caramel is still gooey, but it is wonderful as leftovers as well.  I store it in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days… if it lasts that long.

Halloween masks and makeup

Just in time for the finishing touches of my owl costume, Cirque du Soleil posted some videos on YouTube of some Halloween mask and makeup ideas inspired by their shows.  I'm in love with the fourth video, the Zumanity mask, to coordinate with my owl costume and may have to take some aspects when finishing my mask and doing my makeup.

Zumanity Mask

Even if you're not looking for a mask idea for Halloween, the videos and the techniques they use are pretty incredible.  You can also buy the masks online from their website.  They're a bit pricey but for the avid Cirque fan, they could be nice to have.

Rainy days heat wave!

I have been determined to finish my Rainy Days coat this week and of course, a random heat wave hits the Bay Area.  Regardless, I finally decided how to proceed with my jacket and the plan of attack!  I was torn between buttons, a zipper, or just a tie closure.  I haven’t tackled buttons before and by the time I had started thinking about the closure, I realized I had already sealed the ‘button’ area and would have to do a bit of backtracking to put them in.  I like the ease of zippers, especially on a rainy day, so that route won the closure contest.

Pre-pocket.

Putting in the zipper was easy, but it was definitely the point where I needed to tape my presser foot.  The oil cloth was too sticky alone, but just a small piece of invisible tape on the presser foot worked wonders. 

I had also decided to do the pleated pocket. It comes with a top flap, but I actually liked the look without it.  I don’t know if it’s because that part of the pattern was hard to match up but I thought it looked fine without the top.  I did make it and put it to the side in case I decide that the functionality will be more important... I never really use pockets on my rain coats though I do like to have them.  I also made the sash but didn't think the coat needed it with the zipper.  Again, may change my mind, but for now decided to do with out.

So now, I’m keeping my fingers crossed for some rain.  Even a light drizzle would be nice; anything that would give me an excuse to go out in my new rain coat!

FO: Colette Crepe Dress

It’s official! I’ve finished my first sewn garment that I made 100% by myself.  I haven’t had a chance to get out and pick up the closing pieces to my raincoat but luckily I had the new Colette Crepe wrap dress pattern that required no closures or any other items that I didn’t have handy.  All that was needed was the fabric and interfacing. 

Ta-da!

Back view

This dress was rated at the beginner level which I thought was appropriate since I had technically only ever made clothing pieces with the help of friends.  The pattern came with a short instruction ‘book’ that walked me through the creation process step-by-step.  

Close up of the fabric.

I found this fun fabric at my local fabric and yarn store, Bobbin’s Nest.  When I buy clothes for myself, I tend to go for basics and solid colors, so I decided this dress should be something fun that I wouldn’t be able to pick up just anywhere.  To be a little safe still, I chose the accent ribbon in black.

The top is almost complete.  Wallace approves.

I followed the pattern exactly with one minor modification.  The pattern comes with two neckline versions.  Version 1 is the pattern I followed: a rounded neckline.  Version 2 had a more shaped neckline but was also the version that had a contrasting sash.  I decided to go with Version 1 but swap in the different colored sash.

Attaching the top to the skirt.

The pattern was extremely easy to follow.  The dress fits great and I think one of my favorite features is the pockets.  I also liked the final length, so I hemmed it as is, but I may eventually shorten it a bit. 

Tobey guards the sewing machine.

As usual, my cats decided to help continuously through the process.  Once I made it to the final steps, it wasn’t a problem, but between their naps on the fabric, or grooming on my sewing table, we had a few battles.  In the end, I think they can claim victory.

Simon conducts quality control.

Super Cute

I think I'm going to have to add this cutie to my 'to do' list: Tiny Owl Knits: Cupcake Kitten Hat

Sweet Treats Saturday: Salted Toffee Chocolate Squares

A little break from the fruit trend. Now it’s time for some serious sweets!  I was craving chocolate this week, when my daily Martha Stewart recipe popped up in my inbox.  Salted Toffee Chocolate Squares? Yes, please!  

Graham crackers covered with toffee and almonds. Before baking.

The recipe was incredibly simple.  I followed it almost exactly with the only variations being because of my pan size.  I was able to fit 14 graham crackers on my sheet pan and there was still a little space around the edge.  When I make them again (which I definitely will), I’ll use a slightly smaller sheet pan.  

Butter and sugar mixture covering the previous layer. After being in the oven for 10 minutes.

The flavor was great! My husband couldn’t stop raving about it.  The final product wasn’t the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen, but taste definitely made up for that.  I think if I used the smaller sheet pan the toppings would have filled up more evenly across the surface.

Final product minus a few... test samples... mmmm...

Regardless, I highly recommend it.  You can get the recipe below, or directly from the source at Martha Stewart.

Salted Toffee Chocolate Squares

From: Martha Stewart.com

Ingredients

• 13 graham crackers

• 1 bag (8 ounces) toffee bits

• 1 1/2 cups coarsely chopped toasted natural almonds

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter

• 3/4 cup (4 ounces) bittersweet chocolate, chopped, or chocolate chips

• 3/4 teaspoon coarse salt

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil. Place graham crackers in a single layer on sheet, edges touching. Sprinkle toffee bits and almonds over graham crackers.

2. In a small saucepan, bring sugar and butter to a boil over medium-high. Reduce heat and cook at a rapid simmer, swirling pan occasionally, until mixture is syrupy, 2 minutes. Immediately pour over graham crackers. Bake until sugar topping is bubbling, 12 minutes. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle chocolate and salt over graham crackers. With a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut into 2-inch squares. Let cool completely on sheet on a wire rack. (Store in an airtight container, up to 1 week.)

Enjoy!

Tiny Dancer

My Highland dance school does an annual fundraiser show each year with a small silent auction to help raise money for workshops and school costumes.  I wanted to make something to contribute to the auction this year, and found my new cross stitch addiction helpful in this regard.  I had a pattern for a Highland dancer in a blue kilt that I decided to try as my one or my ‘more advanced’ patterns.  The pattern was pretty easy, with the only tricky parts being the ‘tartan’ pattern in the kilt.

I really like how it turned out, and I think some of the kids from the school will really like it.  The blue Highland outfits seem pretty popular and I wanted to make something that the kids would be interested in.

After I finished this design, I finally was able to pick up a frame for the kilt hose cross stitch that I completed previously.  It's now proudly displayed in my craft room.

Round and round and round we go...

I’ve been behind in my blogging. It seems like whenever you take a vacation, you return needing another one as you’ve fallen so far behind.  Regardless, I’m now back on track and should have some fun updates over the next few days.

Autumn is probably my favorite season.  As much as I love the warmth of Summer, I love the cool weather and the colors of nature that Fall brings.  It’s the start of the holiday season where for a few months, it seems that there is always something happening.

With that cool weather, comes the perfect time for fall hats!  Living in sunny Northern California, I don’t have to worry so much about snow, so a lighter hat is perfect for stepping outside.  My favorite (and what I feel is the most flattering for my head) are the slouchy beret shapes.  An easy knitting pattern that has been a go-to for me is the Star Crossed Slouchy Beret.  It’s easy and free on Ravelry.  

I could have this hat in every color! My favorite is red, but I think I’m going to try a cream color next.  I’ve made a few but they’ve always been snatched up for gifts.  And really, it’s suitable for beginners. As long as you have a basic understanding of cabling and knitting in the round, you can do it.  I think it was my second of each of those techniques and I only had a few hiccups… nothing that my LYS couldn’t help with.

Technical details: I used Malabrigo Merino Yarn Worsted in Ravelry Red, size 11 circulars.

Tweet tweet

Check out this cute fabric I picked up at JoAnn's.  It was on sale and there wasn't much left, so I picked it up for some possible pajama pants.

And on the subject of 'tweeting', follow me on Twitter: whatsupcupcake

Won't you be my neighbor?

We have a new resident at our house.

This little hummingbird has been sleeping in a tree in our side yard for at least the last week... maybe longer but we only just noticed the him recently.  Isn't he cute?

Sweet Treats Saturday: Apple Crisp

Our backyard has a huge apple tree that always seems to be dropping its bounty on the floor.  Between the squirrels and my dog, we are constantly dodging apples scattered over the ground.  I decided to test out an apple crisp recipe that a coworker made a few years ago.

After I was able to scrounge up the few remaining apples that were physically on the tree, I went to work making this super simple, but delicious recipe.

Easy Apple Crisp

4 Medium green apples (peeled and cubed)

1/2 cup of water

1 tsp cinnamon

3/4 cup flour

1 cup granulated sugar

1/2 cup butter

Preheat over to 350 degrees.

Grease a baking dish.  Approximately 9x13 should do.  Spread diced, peeled apples on the bottom.  Pour water over apples and then sprinkle them with the cinnamon.

Time to get messy.  This is easiest using your hands.  I softened the butter slightly, then mixed it with the flour and sugar.  Sprinkle the crumbles over the top of the apples until it’s mostly covered.  

Bake in oven until golden brown. About 1 1/2 hours.

Best served warm with ice cream, but it’s pretty much delicious anytime!

Lady Grey's Sew Along Update: Oilcloth

I followed the same steps as the lining and put together the oilcloth exterior of the raincoat.  I haven't had to use scotch tape on the presser foot yet as I've been working with the interior cloth, but I can tell I'll definitely need it when starting to hem everything and attach it all together.

In order to put together the oilcloth pieces without leaving holes from the pins, I used binder clips... it worked great!

After I attach the lining, I just need to add the pockets and and belt loops.  Oh... and button holes... but I'm nervous about that part.

Bedside Intruder

So my gf and I are big fans of the Antoine Dodson Bedside Intruder song... so much so that it's our ringtones and currently one of our favorite things to quote to each other.  She's playing hostess for me while I'm in SoCal for a dance workshop, so I thought I'd make her a little hostess gift.

I didn't have a ton of time to put it together as I've been trying to make progress on my sew along raincoat , so unfortunately, there's no border. But I think it still works... :)

In case you are one of the few who haven't seen this amazing phenomenon, here are a couple of links to watch:

The original news video

The song created from said video

Antoine Dodson's website

Some people think the whole thing is crude, but hey, with his new-found fame and donations from 'fans', he was able to move his family out of the projects.

And P.S. Thanks for Subversive Cross Stitch for the alphabet and the idea to make something other than kitties and unicorns on cross stitch.

My crafty corner

Here are some pictures of my craft space.  It's still in progress as we recently moved, but I'm having fun putting it together.

Previously I would work on my crafts and practice dancing in our garage... luckily I could move this operation indoors with this new bonus room.

There's space to practice my Irish and Highland dancing, and some storage space for some of my crafts.  I have a little sewing table with the tv conveniently situated so that that I can watch (or usually just listen)  while I craft.

Oh, and this is my cat Simon who looooves to help me craft. That seems to be the #1 time that he wants to snuggle.

Your turn! Tell me about where you do your crafting!

Crazy for cross stitch

Thanks to a crafty friend of mine, I’ve decided to add cross stitch to my craft repetoire.  I’ve been meaning to try it for a while, but never found a pattern I liked.  Teddy bears and kittens weren’t really something I wanted hanging on my wall (sorry, just my own personal taste).  When a fellow Highland dance friend created some tartan patterns, I had to try them out.

I picked up a pattern from her etsy shop, Tartan Hearts, and guessed my way through basic cross stitch materials.  

I wasn’t off by too much in supplies, but I did have to watch some videos to make sure I wasn’t making a mess out of the process.  The video that was a lifesaver was from Yarn Tree on YouTube.  Once I watched it, I was on a roll!

Voila! The final product!  

Thanks Jess!  The pattern was great!

Lady Grey’s Sew Along Update

Time for an update on my raincoat!  As one of my first posts mentioned, I didn’t have the Lady Grey pattern yet so I started with the Amy Butler Rainy Days raincoat.  The pattern has now arrived so I’ll start on that jacket after I finish the raincoat... which is progressing nicely!

I started with the lining. As I wasn’t doing a muslin version of this coat, I’ve been meticulous with my sewing and marking.  This has been a pretty easy pattern so far and apparel sewing is still new to me.  The hardest part was the sleeves but only because I’m not a fan of sewing gathered materials.  It wasn’t too painful - I just used a lot of pins!

I didn’t hem the length of anything yet (as you can see, the sleeves are a little long) as this is just the lining and I can cut back anything that is too long for the final jacket.  Aside from the length, I really like the fit.  I just put a little pin in front to get an idea of what it will look like closed.

I started stitching the oilcloth material.  I’ll be using binder clips and paper clips instead of pins to avoid any excessive puncture marks.  So far so good! Hopefully I’ll be done with the jacket in the next week.  I’m going to a dance workshop this weekend so anything I don’t finish in the next couple of days will have to wait until next week.  It’s been a quick sew so far, but I’m going to take my time putting the oilcloth together to avoid any scary mistakes.  More coming soon!

Sweet Treat Saturdays: Banana Bread

In keeping with the cupcake name, I thought I should post some baking bits on here once in a while.  So welcome to the first edition of Saturday Sweet Treats!  

I had some overripe bananas hanging around, so I browsed some of my favorite baking blogs until I found the perfect recipe.  Smitten Kitchen had a recipe for some ‘jack’d up banana bread.’  I followed the recipe exactly, as I like to make any modifications after I’ve tried the original version.  This one doesn’t need any changes!  I did include the ‘optional’ tablespoon of bourbon; I highly recommend it.  I had enough batter to make one regular loaf and a mini one.

I’m definitely going to be adding this to my recipe collection.  It turned out great!  If you have bananas on hand, give them a few extra days to ripen and whip up this recipe.

Whoooo you lookin' at?

You may not have noticed but I like to multi-task. Or multi-craft in this case.  At any one time, I usually have 4-5 projects going so I can pick them up as the mood suits me. In this case I’m currently working on:

1. Lady Grey’s raincoat/jacket sew along
2. My first cross-stitch project
3. A few knitting projects (which I’ll just count as one item)
4. My Halloween costume

Today, I’ll share a sneak peak at my in progress Halloween costume.  

This year I wanted to make my own costume so I spent some time surfing the web and flipping through the pages of pattern books.  No one costume called out to me until all of a sudden, I had the idea to be an owl.  I had seen an owl costume that was cute, but something about it was just.... too much. So I decided to tweak a few patterns and come up with my own.  The main focal point of this pattern would be the cape, which would be covered in owl feathers.  I used Simplicity pattern 2531 as my inspiration and for the feather pattern.  

Here’s a picture of the almost finished cape.  I’m going to add the feather trim to the top edge and the hood.  

I also made a brown dress and am working on a mask with the below pieces.  

Final product coming soon!

Sugar and Spice

It's my favorite time of year! This fact is kicked off by Williams-Sonoma releasing their mulling spices (well and that the first day of Fall was yesterday).  I love lounging on a chilly night with a nice big mug of hot apple cider.  If you haven't tried it, I highly recommend it.

Typically I just take standard apple juice and heat it up on the stove.  Take a loose tea strainer or cheesecloth and fill with a spoonful of the mulling spices.  Let this simmer in the apple juice for a bit... usually about 10-15 minutes, or longer depending on your preference, pour, and enjoy!  This treat keeps your hands warm while working on your crafty projects.

P.S. I am in no way affiliated with Williams-Sonoma. I just have a weakness for yummy things.