A Dose of Pretty

FullSizeRender-1578{Pretty appetizers that are the perfect size for sharing.}

Lately, time feels as if it moves quickly and slowly at the same time. It reminds me of how people say when they are in love, their heart beats faster and slower at the same time. We’re somehow going to spring forward this weekend and celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day next week. Even with the atmospheric rivers and extra rain in California currently, I can feel the seasons shift from a cold winter to a brighter, sunnier spring. This weekend we’re up in Northern California to visit my family. I’m excited for some rainier days, shopping at my favorite boutiques near home, and going to our favorite restaurants while we’re here. I hope you have a great weekend as well!

FullSizeRender-1402{Almond milk and granola + fresh berries for a decadently healthy brunch.}

FullSizeRender-1576{Bright yellow hibiscuses on my afternoon walk.}

FullSizeRender-1580{The yummiest task: trying out various white, milk, and dark chocolates for a chocolate tasting.}

FullSizeRender-1579{Paw prints in the cement get me every time.}

FullSizeRender-1577{My new favorite burger: a portabello mushroom + caramelized onion slider.}

x Paris

Spiked Shamrock Shake + Spiked Mint Infused Whipped Cream

Since I tend to avoid fast food, I didn’t discover McDonald’s seasonal Shamrock Shake until a few years ago when I began seeing homemade recipes online. I decided to make the festive drink a little more Irish by spiking it with a shot of Baileys Irish Cream and a bit more mint infused by subbing the traditional vanilla ice cream + green food coloring for mint chocolate chip ice cream. Topped with a Baileys and mint infused whipped cream and garnished with a mint leaf, it created for the prettiest green milkshake in hand with the most refreshing and indulgent flavor. And the best part is, if you want to keep it from being a cocktail you can just sub fresh cream in place of the sweet, boozy cream. I hope you enjoy it as the days begin to get warmer and we get closer to Saint Patrick’s Day!

Spiked Mint Infused Whipped Cream

Ingredients:
1/8 Cup Heavy Cream
1/8 Cup Powdered Sugar
1/4 Ounce Baileys Irish Cream
1-2 Drops Mint Extract

Recipe:
1. Mix all ingredients together.

2. Add to the spiked milkshake.

3. Enjoy!

Spiked Shamrock Shake

Ingredients:
{Makes One Drink}
2 Scoops Mint Chocolate Chip Ice Cream
3/4 Cup Full Fat Milk
1/4 Cup Heavy Cream
1 Ounce Baileys Irish Cream

Recipe:
1. Blend all the ingredients except the booze in a blender.

2. Add in the Baileys and stir.

3. Top with a spiked mint infused whipped cream and garnish with a mint leaf.

4. Enjoy!

x Paris