I was scrolling through my photos on my iPhone (I have a lot of storage, so there were tons to sift through) looking for a recipe we’ve tried to share with you. I came across this amazing looking spread of miniature cupcakes my mom made for a Garden Club event last spring. Since it’s February finally, that means that prep can begin for another busy spring of events here in Natchez. Keep this simple recipe on hand for your potluck for anything from Valentine’s Day to Easter Sunday.

img_1341

Strawberry Cupcakes with Vanilla Icing

For cupcakes, use a strawberry mix and prepare as directed in miniature cupcake tins.

For icing:

2/3 cup Crisco (butter or regular)

1-pound box powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/8 cup water (for mixing)

Beat all ingredients with a hand mixer until smooth.  More water can be added if needed. Use a piping bag with decorative tip to ice the cooled cupcakes and top with sprinkles.

 

It’s that time of year again. The balloons have completed their first race of the season, and the mayhem of Balloon Race weekend is underway. Who would’ve thought a couple of weeks ago when we were praying for temperatures below 90 degrees that we would be dealt this slate of fall weather to enjoy the best of the best?

Growing up, I have so many memories of Balloon Races past. One of the earliest is spending Saturday morning on a pallet in the driveway, snuggled up watching the balloons float overhead. I also remember my Dad’s first flight and him being christened with an upside-down champagne toast in the field next to the balloon he rode in. (Oh, don’t worry. Aimee and I tried to recreate this same toast at home with water and plastic cups, and their is VHS evidence out there somewhere.) Aimee’s first flight came later with cousin Stephen, and mine was just a few short years ago one Friday morning Hare and Hound race.

So, instead of sharing a recipe today, sending everyone to the grocery store, and spending time stuck in the kitchen, I’m hoping everyone plans on spending the weekend out of the house. Natchez has a full weekend on deck, so get out there and chase a balloon!

This weekend is the be-all and end-all for weekends to come to Natchez, be out and about in Natchez, and strongly consider becoming a Natchezian in your spare time. With the hot air balloons already floating around to excite the locals, we’ve got our fingers crossed for a weekend of calm and cool weather. So, come see us.

fc3276f4-4e2e-48d3-b43d-4db5db6c6dd1

But, we would also like to see you stay for dinner on Sunday night. Country Roads will play host after a long weekend for us locals and set out of spread that showcases the best views, tours, and dining in town in the second event of the Fall Supper Club Series. How do you become a member of the club? All you need is your golden ticket that can be purchase right here. Want to know what’s on the menu? Read a scrumptious overview here.

There are only a few tickets left, so hurry and grab yours now.