Meghan Y., Author at Cake 'n Knife

Peach Tequila Sunrise Punch

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON February 12, 2019 // Leave a Comment

Peach Tequila Sunrise Punch is a magically colorful cocktail that will be the centerpiece of your next gathering! The juicy peach flavor gives the classic drink a boost of sunshine, without making the cocktail itself overly sweet. It’s just the right balance to wet your whistle!

Disclosure: This post was sponsored by Stirrings! As always, all opinions are my own.

I’m sitting here looking outside at blue skies and sunshine from my office window…

However when I stand up, there’s that darn snow, still covering my backyard. [Read more…]

Mocha Orange Mexican Wedding Cookies

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON February 8, 2019 // 1 Comment

Mocha Orange Mexican Wedding Cookies are a twist on the classic cookie recipe that melt in your mouth with every bite! The combination of espresso powder, cocoa powder, and fresh orange zest put these cookies over-the-top with a punch of citrusy chocolate flavor. All you need is a handful of ingredients!

OK, can I ask just one question.

WHY IS DIETING SO FREAKING HARD?

I honestly am trying to be better about the things I put in my body, in favor of trimming off that holiday excess I inhaled. However, for some reason this time is a lot harder than usual.

Perhaps it’s because I keep making things like these cookies…

See? Sometimes being a food blogger is actually a whole lot tougher than you might think at times.

I’m even heading to a mac and cheese festival tonight… Of course, I KNOW I shouldn’t complain, but the body issues are hanging over my head a lot lately. I don’t know if it’s because my metabolism seems to be slowing. Perhaps it’s because I am following one too many fashion Instagrammers. Maybe I am just being uniquely hard on myself (as is my tendency).

Despite the current mood of self-doubt that’s floating around in my head, I can always seem to bring myself out of it when I bake.

That might seem a little crazy because baking usually involves sweets which I am trying to avoid eating too much of, however, you still have to enjoy life.

Finding this balance isn’t quite there yet, but a cookie at the end of the day isn’t going to kill me.

It’s always hard to remember that, isn’t it? Tell me someone out there gets all this rambling I’m doing!

Let’s talk about how these cookies have given me the little lift I needed this week.

Mexican wedding cookies are usually a cookie that people bring out around the holidays (they are also know as “snowball cookies”). However, this is a celebration cookie that I think should be brought out year round.

The base recipe is truly flavorful and simple, but it can also be easily updated with different flavor combinations.

Here I’ve brought together chocolate, coffee, and orange to give some added depth to the already tasty recipe! I love the zing of the orange that comes through in each bite. Not to mention the mocha notes bring out the richness in flavor…

Finally, you get that little extra sweet hit at the end of each bite from the powdered sugar.

It’s just the right amount of sweetness to make it a cookie that’s ideal for a snack, tea time, or a little treat at the end of a longggggg day.

Pair them with a warm and cozy mug of mexican hot chocolate to complete the whole indulgent experience!

Side note: if anyone out there has any tips on dieting that DON’T include protein shakes or diet pills, I’d love to hear them! Looking for real life balance here, not a crash diet 😉 Tell me your tips in the comments!

This Recipe’s Must-Haves

If you don’t already have a KitchenAid mixer, I highly recommend this KitchenAid 7-Quart Pro Line Stand Mixer. The Man surprised me with it for Christmas last year, and it’s been my new baby ever since. I ADORE it.

Whenever I bake, I am always reaching for my Silpat Premium Non-Stick Silicone Baking Mats and USA Pan Bakeware Half Sheet Pans. They churn out perfectly baked cookies every. single. time.

One of my pro tips for making these cookies is to cover them with an extra dusting of powdered sugar just before serving. The OXO Good Grips Baker’s Dusting Wand is ideal for just this purpose! Plus it’s super affordable!

Mocha Orange Mexican Wedding Cookies

Chocolate, coffee, and orange come together in these classic Mexican wedding cookies for a tasty, light dessert with a powdered sugary finish!

5 from 1 vote

Print Pin

Prep Time: 5

Cook Time: 12

Additional Time: 20

Total Time: 37

equipment

ingredients

1 cup butter softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 1/2 tsp instant espresso
3 1/2 tsp cocoa powder
2 1/4 cups sifted flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tsp orange zest
Powdered sugar

instructions

Add butter and powdered sugar to the bowl of a stand mixer. Beat with the paddle attachment until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Stir in vanilla extract.
Add instant espresso, cocoa powder, flour and salt to a medium bowl. Whisk together.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture. Stir until just combined. Add orange zest and stir until combined.
Form dough into 1 1/4-inch balls. Place on baking sheets lined with parchment paper or silicone mats.
Chill dough on the sheet pans in the refrigerator for 20 minutes.
When ready to bake, preheat oven to 400˚F. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, until the edges of the cookies turn light brown.
Remove from oven and cool slightly.
Add powdered sugar to a medium bowl. While cookies are still warm, roll each one in the powdered sugar until coated.
Add to wire racks and cool completely.

Category: Cookies

Pizookie Skillet For Two

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON February 1, 2019 // Leave a Comment

Pizookie Skillet For Two is just the ooey-gooey dessert to cozy up to with your special someone this Valentine’s Day! Filled with mini chocolate chips and M&M’s, the skillet cookie is topped with ice cream and hot fudge sauce for extra decadence. Ready in less than 25 minutes!

Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will receive a small commission.

Whenever I think “pizookie,” I am swept right back to high school in my best friend’s kitchen.

I remember it like yesterday. We would run out to the store to get pre-made cookie dough and vanilla bean ice cream whenever we had the chance, whether it was after school or on a weekend afternoon.

Honestly, I can’t even remember who came up with the idea to make it first… I think it was my bestie Jessica’s idea if I remember correctly. I’d never had it so she of course demanded that we make it right away. [Read more…]

Perfect Manhattan Punch

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON January 31, 2019 // Leave a Comment

The Perfect Manhattan Punch is the ultimate big batch cocktail mixture to have as the centerpiece of your next gathering. It is a slightly lightened up version of the classic Manhattan, making it easy for sipping at a party without hitting you with a heavy punch. Make no mistake though, this boozy drink is not lacking in any flavor!

Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will receive a small commission.

So I’ve been a little more absent at the start of this week with the recipes, BUT I have a realllllly good reason for it.

I’ve been organizing ALL the things in my life.

Like. Literally. Everything.

It’s basically been a Marie Kondo explosion in our house. [Read more…]

Grilled Cajun Wings

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON January 26, 2019 // 5 Comments

Grilled Cajun Wings are an easy, oh-so flavorful snack that packs a powerful spicy punch! These wings are rubbed with a homemade cajun seasoning, grilled, and slathered with a sweet and spicy sauce. They are downright addictive!

Disclosure: This post has been sponsored by Sprouts! As always, all opinions are my own. Thanks for supporting the brands that support Cake ‘n Knife!

The Big Game is just around the corner, and I know you are all getting excited for whatever gathering you are planning on hosting or attending!

If there is any appetizer or snack that I absolutely adore having come game time, it’s chicken wings.

They are tasty, hearty, and go with so many different flavors so they can fit anyone’s flavor preference. [Read more…]

Homemade Brandy Cherries

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON January 24, 2019 // 4 Comments

Homemade Brandy Cherries are the perfect garnish for your favorite cocktails! Plump, tart cherries are soaked in tart cherry juice, brandy and spiced rum to give you a homemade version of those fancy cherries you love. They also make a fantastic gift for your cocktail-lovin’ friends!

Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will receive a small commission.

Do you love cocktail cherries?

If you are a fan of the classic Manhattan cocktail, I am sure that you are. Just like me 😉

I love a great cocktail cherry as a garnish for a cocktail. I’m not talking about those bright red maraschino cherries. [Read more…]

Cajun Poutine

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON January 18, 2019 // Leave a Comment

Cajun Poutine is my take on the classic recipe, with an oh-so spicy cajun twist. Topped with shredded chicken, andouille sausage, and a cajun gravy, this pile of deliciousness is simply irresistible. It has just the right kick to light up everyone’s taste buds!

I’M BACK WITH MORE POUTINE, PEOPLE.

*excuse me while I do my little happy dance here*

Poutine is still one of my favorite things to eat. If I could chow down on it every day, I totally would, and I would not be made about all the weight I would gain by doing so. [Read more…]

Instant Pot Chicken Tinga Tacos

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON January 15, 2019 // 1 Comment

Instant Pot Chicken Tinga Tacos are spicy, flavorful, and full of spark. The hearty chicken tinga is made in the Instant Pot, making it the ideal dinner for any weeknight. These will become your new favorite tacos!

Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will receive a small commission.

In our home, Taco Tuesday isn’t a thing. That’s because ANY night is a good night for tacos. Obviously.

How can anyone not love tacos?

They can be made out of almost anything you can think of from chicken, pork, beef, fish, and vegetables. I absolutely love the variety and that’s why tacos are one of my favorite foods. [Read more…]

Guacamole Wontons

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON January 14, 2019 // Leave a Comment

Guacamole Wontons are the handheld version of my favorite food, that’s also been fried. The golden brown, crunchy exterior wraps the guacamole in a warm hug. Be sure to make them for the big game!

I’m back at it with the guacamole again, I know.

Don’t hate me ok? It’s an ADDICTION.

Honestly, can you blame me? Guacamole will always put a smile on my face and that is something I sorely need.

I don’t know about you, but the start of a new year brings a lot of emotions up to the surface. [Read more…]

Instant Pot Bolognese

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON January 11, 2019 // Leave a Comment

Instant Pot Bolognese is the easy comfort food solution for any night of the week. The rich, meaty sauce tastes like you’ve been cooking it for hours, but it comes together in less than an hour! This is homemade meat sauce made easy.

Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will receive a small commission.

Oh boyyyyyyyyy…. You are going to LOVE me for this recipe.

Like, really truly fall in love with the recipe in a soul-shaking, earth-shattering way.

There are few recipes that speak to my soul on such a real level, but this is one of them. It’s a recipe that clings to your heart in such a way that you will always turn to it, time and time again, whenever you need a truly comforting meal. [Read more…]

Old Fashioned Moscow Mule

POSTED BY Meghan Y. ON January 10, 2019 // Leave a Comment

An Old Fashioned Moscow Mule is the stunning combination of an old fashioned cocktail and a Moscow mule! Bringing together two of your favorite cocktails, the flavors meld together in a unique and balanced way. It’ll be the star cocktail of your next gathering!

about this old fashioned moscow mule

So I decided it would be a good idea to throw two cocktails in the same glass and see what happens this week…

OH BOY, that was the best decision I’ve made in a longgggg time.

As you all know, I am a huge fan of Old Fashioned and Moscow Mules. I’ve made Old Fashioned cocktails with twists like apple pie, strawberry rhubarb, earl grey, smoked orange, and sparkling grapefruit.

I’ve created Moscow Mules with twists like peach mint, blood orange, pear, cherry, blackberry, and mezcal.

However, amongst all this cocktail experimentation, I had overlooked the most obvious combination of all…

Old Fashioned + Moscow Mule = YUM.

I have always loved putting whiskey or bourbon in a Moscow mule, so this cocktail is already pure deliciousness in my book. However, instead of it simply being an Irish Mule (a Moscow mule with whiskey), this drink adds bitters into the mix with a touch of simple syrup and lime.

You can honestly use any type of bitters you like in this cocktail. I’ve used orange and cherry, as well as Angostura or smoked orange. There are so many options to choose from in the bitters department nowadays, so you can really make this cocktail your own. I would recommend sticking with standards or fruit flavors for the bitters. Feel free to try more and report back with your findings!

This is seriously going to become one of your new favorite cocktails for happy hour or gatherings! Plus you can set out a bar full of everything you need for Moscow mules and old fashioned cocktails, then set out instructions for this cocktail. It’s a fun way to host a cocktail party or gathering. You’ll be surprised by how much guests get into whipping up their own concoction.

Love all things bourbon? Check out my bourbon Kentucky mule recipe for another tasty mule option.

ingredients

whiskey. An old fashioned cocktail is generally made with bourbon or rye whiskey, so you can use your favorite in this cocktail! Both of these types of whiskeys work well with the flavors in the drink. Personally, I prefer bourbon (just in case you can’t decide!).

simple syrup. Snag a bottle of simple syrup at the store if you want to, but it’s so much easier (and cheaper!) to make at home. You will need equal parts water and granulated sugar. I’ve got a whole post on how to make simple syrup where I answer any questions you might have! You could also use honey simple syrup to bring a different sweet flavor to the cocktail.

lime juice. In my opinion, fresh lime juice is always the best option!

bitters. You can go traditional with Angostura bitters, but you can also change it up with fruity options. I personally love to use orange or cherry bitters in the cocktail.

ginger beer. Non-alcoholic ginger beer is a bubbly beverage that has a tasty ginger kick at the end. I like to opt for brands that have a good kick of heat, like fever-tree ginger beer. You could also use a less-spicy option like bundaberg ginger beer.

ice. Crushed ice is preferred for this cocktail!

this recipe’s must haves

This recipe comes together in a tall pint glass, but you can also assemble it right in the copper mugs you want to serve them in. I like these moscow mule mugs or these gorgeous floral moscow mule mugs, if you are looking for some!

You will need a cocktail strainer and a cocktail stirring spoon as well.

here’s how to make an old fashioned moscow mule

stir

In a copper mug filled halfway with ice, add whiskey, simple syrup, lime juice and bitters. Stir briefly to combine. Fill to the top with crushed ice.

top off

Top off with ginger beer. Stir one more time before serving. I like to garnish with an orange wheel!

tips and ideas

use different bitters. Just like with a classic old fashioned, you can easily experiment with different bitters to change the flavor of this cocktail. From fruity to spicy to smoky, have fun with experimenting.

adjust the ratio. As I like to clarify with all of my recipes, these measurements are just a starting point. Some people like their drinks stronger or weaker. Others prefer sweetness to tartness. Therefore, make this recipe once and take a sip. Then adjust the whiskey, lime juice, ginger beer, simple syrup, etc.

More delicious whiskey cocktails to try: Sparkling Whiskey Sour | Bourbon Mule | Bourbon Manhattan | Bourbon Sidecar

what’s the difference between a moscow mule and an old fashioned mule?

A Moscow mule is typically made with vodka, lime juice, and ginger beer. This old fashioned Moscow mule recipe is a riff on two cocktails – the Moscow mule and the old fashioned cocktail.

Therefore, instead of vodka, this cocktail uses whiskey! It also adds bitters to the mix, giving an added depth of flavor.

should I use bourbon or rye?

You can use either in this cocktail! I personally prefer bourbon for the slight sweetness as it pairs so well with the heat from the ginger beer. Rye works really well with the cocktail too! It just depends on what kind of whiskey you prefer.

is this different than a Kentucky mule?

A Kentucky mule is essentially a Moscow mule, but made with bourbon. Therefore, it’s a bit different than this cocktail! It doesn’t incorporate the bitters, and therefore it has a very different flavor profile to it.

can I make this cocktail into a big batch cocktail?

Yes, a moscow mule is an easy cocktail to turn into a pitcher! To serve 8, you will need 2 cups bourbon or rye whiskey, 1/2 cup simple syrup, 2 oz fresh lime juice, 16 dashes bitters, 4 cups ginger beer. Stir together all the ingredients in a pitcher filled with ice and serve right away.

Need more inspiration for cocktail hour? Check out my cocktail recipes page!

what to serve with an old fashioned moscow mule

This cocktail is a classic combination of flavors, so it goes with a lot of different foods! The ginger in the cocktail goes really well with two different types of food – Asian-inspired recipes and seafood recipes.

If you want some Asian recipe inspiration:

For an appetizer, spicy beef dumplings are absolutely delicious! A creamy crab rangoon dip is also a winner every single time.

Gochujang noodles are made with leftover chicken, making it ideal for any night of the week. If you prefer a heartier dish, instant pot pumpkin curry is the ultimate comfort meal.

For some seafood recipes to pair with this cocktail:

I love these shrimp tostadas because they work for either an appetizer or dinner!

Simple baked lemon garlic salmon can be paired with you favorite seasonal sides, no matter what time of year it is.

more moscow mule recipes

A spicy jalapeno mexican mule will get your taste buds tingling!

If you love cranberry cocktails, this cranberry orange moscow mule is ideal for an winter gathering.

Enjoy a good mash up? This margarita mexican mule is for you!

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With seasonal produce guides, recipes, and more, this cookbook is filled with seasonal food for every occasion.

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Finally, if you make this old fashioned moscow mule recipe, please be sure to give this recipe a rating and/or leave a comment! I love to hear when you all make recipes, and I do take the time to respond to every single comment.

Feel free to drop questions below too, if you have them!

Oh and be sure to tag me on Instagram if you make the recipe! I love being able to see these recipes come to life in your homes – it’s my favorite thing to look through those photos. It really means the world to me!

Old Fashioned Moscow Mule

Your favorite old fashioned cocktail meets a moscow mule in a bubbly, balanced mug! It’ll become your new favorite way to enjoy BOTH cocktails at one time.

5 from 46 votes

Print Pin

Prep Time: 5

Total Time: 5