Once small bubbles appear at the edges, take from heat and mix in the chocolate until it’s melted completely.

Pour into a mug and top with whipped cream if you wish.

Almond Croissants

So the recipe for regular croissants is in Dessert Person. But to make them delicious and almondy, make croissants like normal, letting them sit out for a few hours or overnight until kind of dry.

Once this is done, make the frangipane from Dessert Person.

Then, in a small saucepan, combine 1 cup water, 2Tbsp sugar and 1Tbsp rum.

Bring to a simmer, stirring until sugar dissolves and then turn off heat, letting cool to room temperature.

Slice croissants horizontally. Dip each piece in the syrup before arranging on a baking tray, cut side up.

You can also just use an egg wash for the croissants if you don’t want to make a syrup.

Spread frangipane on each half (about 2Tbsp).

Add top half to each croissant, spreading about 1Tbsp of frangipane on top then srinkle with sliced almonds.

Bake at 350 for about 15 min.

Acknowledgments

This book was meant to be light and fun. Personally, I still think it feels light and fun but I wouldn’t be me if I didn’t add some drama and heartbreak.

It was also meant to be a total standalone.

Then Fiona and Kip happened.

Then Lori and Finn happened.

Then Calliope and her man happened.

Suffice to say, you have not seen the last of Jupiter or its beloved residents.

I’m writing Fiona and Kip as we speak.

Anyway, back to the point.

As always with me, this book turned into something bigger, deeper and longer. Therefore, I turned into what I always turn into during the writing process—a hot mess.

In addition to writing a book, I was also testing recipes. And I’m already a chaotic baker. Try being a chaotic baker on a deadline.

Not pretty.

I had so much fun writing this book. And, as always, it wouldn’t be what it is without the people around me.

Taylor. My husband. The man who comes home with flowers, with treats, who treats me gently and kindly when I’m slowly unraveling. The man who taste tested every recipe even though he’s ‘not a dessert person’. The man who I fell in love with despite that ;)

My biggest cheerleader. My best friend. My soul mate. I’m endlessly glad fate brought me to you.

Mum. You always pick up the phone. You listen to me cry, vent and talk a million miles a minute after many, many coffees. You tell me to buy the purse. You were the one who introduced me to reading. Who told me I could be whoever or whatever I wanted.

Dad. You’re not here to read this but so much of who I am is thanks to you. My expensive taste comes from you. My stubbornness. You taught me to do everything a man could do and to do it better. I love you. Not a day goes by that I don’t miss you.