Mad About Maida

Chocolate Applesaucers Source:  Maida Heatter's Cookies (Andrews & McMeel Publishing, 1997 ed.) , pg. 43 . Spices and chocolate always seem like an odd mixture to me but these cookies make it work. They are large cookies (you could probably make them smaller). They are very soft and chewy. The icing is also quite delicious but use it fast because it thickens quickly. They keep well in an airtight container or ziploc bag. Since they are so soft, they crumble easily, so this is not a cookie that travels well. 2 1/2 cup sifted all-purpose flour 1 tsp. baking soda 1/2 tsp. salt 1 1/2 tsp. cinnamon 1/2 tsp. ground cloves 1 tsp. instant coffee 2 TBS. boiling water 1 stick unsalted butter 1 cup sugar 1 egg 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-process) 1 1/2 cups smooth applesauce 1 cup raisins 1/2 cup walnuts, cut into small pieces Preheat oven to 350 and line cookie sheets with parchment paper. Dissolve the instant coffee in the boiling water an...

86-Proof Cake Source:  Maida Heatter's Book of Great Chocolate Desserts (Andrews & McMeel Publishing, 2006 ed.) , pg. 47. One of her more popular recipes, Maida describes this cake as "moist and luscious". It is dense and rich and there is no need for icing. The liquor (I used scotch whiskey) is potent and compliments the chocolate flavor very well. She recommends using a fancy pan for it. I just used my plain Bundt pan. I did not add the confectioners sugar but would do so if serving to guests. 5 ounces (5 squares) unsweetened chocolate 2 cups sifted all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda ¼ teaspoon salt ¼ cup espresso or dry instant coffee Boiling water ...