Top 12 Desserts from 2012

I know, lots of you are probably trying to avoid sweets and desserts this time of year...sorry!  But with the Super Bowl and Valentine's Day and those days when you just have to give into your sweet tooth, I figured you'd want a few tried and true recipes to help you out ;-)

In 2012, I stepped out of my comfort zone quite a bit and did more baking than I had ever done before.  I also purchased an ice cream maker and that has been a life changer!  I plan on continuing to expand my baking and dessert repertoire in 2013, so be sure to check back for some new recipes!

Chocolate Toffee Brownies
These brownies are as good as they sound and are extremely easy to prepare and use boxed brownie mix.  Every time I make them, I get multiple requests for these delicious brownies!

Vanilla Ice Cream
Of all the ice cream I have made so far, this is one of our favorites.  It's so simple and really shows you how much better homemade ice cream is than store bought.

Chewy Ginger Cookies
I was so proud of these cookies when I made them!  They are perfectly chewy and spicy and they are absolutely gorgeous!

Creme Brulee
Matt and I love making this Creme Brulee for special occasions-it's just as good, if not better, than any version I've ever tried in a restaurant!

Chocolate Guinness Cupcakes with Bailey's Buttercream Frosting
These are the most popular post on my blog and I can see why-the name says it all and they are an absolutely beautiful dessert!

German Chocolate Cake Brownies
This is Matt's favorite brownie of all time and something he requests over and over.  Again, this uses a boxed mix and is really easy to make.

Lemon Crinkle Cookies
Another cookie that impressed me!  I can't believe how perfect these came out-perfect to look at, perfect to smell and perfectly lemony! These are one of my all-time favorite cookies!

Baked Apples with Crumb Topping
So simple but so delicious! This is the perfect dessert to make for one person or for a large group.  It tastes just like apple crisp but comes together much quicker!

Florentine Cookies

I have never made something that reminded me so much of my childhood. I used to pick the Florentine, or "lace" cookies out of every bakery cookie plate!

Classic Cheesecake
I make this cheesecake every year for Easter-it has a slight hint of citrus that really sends it over the top!

Rocky Road Ice Cream
Being the chocolate lover that I am, I instantly fell in love with this ice cream.  The chocolate base in this ice cream is heavenly and the peanuts and marshmallows are such a wonderful addition.

Sangria
Not a really a dessert, I know, but I really loved this drink and I was so happy with the way it came out-it's perfect on a warm summer evening!