Recipe: Cranberry and White Chocolate Blondies

A little while ago I attended a Whitworths baking class with GBBO finalist Holly Bell. It really was such a lovely afternoon and so much fun rolling my sleeves up and baking some goodies. I really don't bake enough recently and had forgotten how much I loved it. They very kindly sent us some ingredients for some recipes including their famous products. I have to say I was very impressed, I'm not usually much of a dried fruit fan as I find it quite dry. But the fruit was juicy and extremely tasty. You can definitely tell the difference!

First up to try were the Cranberry and White Chocolate Blondies. These wasn't the most photogenic bake I've created but they were one of the tastiest! They are best enjoyed warm from the oven so you can appreciate the gooey white chocolate and juicy cranberries.

As always please do let me know if you attempt these and tweet my your attempts!

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A few favourites #5

1. The Hairy Dieters cookbook
I'm trying my hardest to eat healthily or at least 80% of the time. We all need a burger binge once in a lifetime right? So I've been digging around in my extensive cookbook collection and come across an old favourites. I adore The Hairy Bikers - I think I might have nearly all of their books. This one is a little gem. Every recipe I've tried has been amazing and they all feel indulgent despite shaving off a few calories from the original. It's amazing how a few changes can completely reduce the calorie content without having to compromise on taste.

2. Schwarzkopf Got2b Rise 'n' Shine Volume and Shine Hairspray*
I'm always a little heavy handed with hairspray - gotta help it stick right? - so look out for one that has a strong hold but doesn't make my hair feel rock solid. I've found just the right one thanks to Got2b. This beauty helps to stop any stray hairs coming out of place, gives it a much needed shine and boasts it's volume. The lazy girl in me loves a multi-tasker. It's easy to brush out and my hair doesn't feel heavy or sticky.

3. Urbanears Plattan headphones
My headphones suddenly packed up halfway through my commute to the city so I need of some decent quality ones sharpish. I'd spotted these in various colours on the tube so hunted around until I realised what they were. Urbanears is a Scandinavian brands and are famous for their rainbow colours. They're comfortable to wear, easy to adjust and have brilliant sound quality.

4. Next postcard clutch bag 
My darling mother treated me to this clutch in the Next sale just before I went to Barcelona. I have such a soft spot for a novelty clutch and this one ticks all the boxes. Such a conversation starter!

5. Models Own Chrome effect nail polishes*
Since I've been trying really hard to stop biting my nails, I've been smothering them in nail polish a few times a week. I've found if they look pretty, I tend to leave them alone. I picked up these polishes a few months ago from my old job and they look great on. So shiny! The gold and silver are already earmarked for the festive season.

6. Gallo Family Vineyards Spritz Raspberry and Lime & Pineapple and Passionfruit*
I do love a good glass of wine as anyone who knows me will confirm but sometimes it's nice to have something a little lighter and more refreshing. That's where these tasty concoctions came in. TV presenter Laura Whitemore is the face of the brand so you know you're going to be in good hands when you crack open a bottle. All the cool kids are drinking them!

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Recipe: Pulled Pork Burrito Bowl

I was contacted by ASDA and asked to make up my own recipe to take part in the Pork Belly challenge. I eagerly accepted and decided to make my own version of a burrito bowl. This is a dish which I have when I'm feeling on a bit of a health kick. It feels indulgent but is full of veggies. It's really up to you what you pop in, the world is your oyster! The pork belly tasted delicious in it!

Serves 2
Takes around 40 minutes

Burrito:
ASDA Butcher's Selection Sweet BBQ Crispy Pork Belly
1 pack of microwavable brown rice
1 can of kidney beans
1 small can of sweetcorn
4 tablespoons of 0% fat Greek yogurt
1 avocado
2 teaspoons of paprika

Salsa:
Half a lime
15 cherry tomatoes, diced
A small handful of fresh coriander
1 small green chilli

1. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees (slightly lower if you have a non-fan assisted oven).

2. Chop the coriander and chilli before mixing together with the diced tomatoes and lime juice to make the salsa.

3. Pop the pork belly in the oven for around 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it does cook fast! It says 45 minutes on the packet but this was too long for my oven.

3. Once the pork belly has been in the oven for 25 minutes, take it out and sprinkle the sachet of toffee crumble on top. Cook for a further 2 minutes before taking it out of the oven. Let it rest for around 3-4 minutes before shredding.

4. Drain the kidney beans and pop in a saucepan on a medium heat with the paprika. After 2/3 minutes add the sweetcorn and carry on stirring for 3 more minutes. Peal and chop the avocado.

5. Pop the rice in the microwave for the allocated time.

6. Serve between two bowls before tucking in.

I'd love to know if you rustle this up. Just tweet me and let me know!

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