Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Love Swah A Sydney food, travel and design blog ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://loveswah.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [A Kid-Friendly Guide to Port Stephens](https://loveswah.com/a-kid-friendly-guide-to-port-stephens/) - How to Get There Port Stephens is an easy 2 1/2 hour drive north of Sydney, and is famous for its pristine beaches, nature walks and sprawling sand dunes. It's the perfect destination for travelling with kids and I know we will be back many times in the future. Where to Stay We travelled courtesy of - [Weekends Away: A Toddler-Friendly Guide to Canberra](https://loveswah.com/toddler-friendly-guide-to-canberra/) - We recently enjoyed a long weekend in our nation's capital, Canberra, with our 2.5 year old daughter. Canberra is a great city to visit with kids and we enjoyed a busy 3 days of art, food and playgrounds which kept everyone happy and entertained. How to get there Canberra is a 3 hour drive south-west - [Dark Chocolate Guinness Cake with Baileys Cream Cheese Icing](https://loveswah.com/dark-chocolate-guinness-cake-with-baileys-cream-cheese-icing/) - Can you believe the secret to this rich and dark chocolate cake is Guinness beer! Paired with a sweet Baileys cream cheese icing, this is the perfect cake to celebrate St Patrick’s Day… or any day really! I have a huge love for St Patrick’s Day themed desserts and adding stout beer to cake, cupcakes, - [Easter Bunny Cream Tart](https://loveswah.com/easter-bunny-cream-tart/) - This Bunny Cream Tart features layers of shortbread and white chocolate ganache and is topped with Easter eggs, sugar flowers and fresh flowers. It’s the perfect way to celebrate Easter! It’s no secret I love an excuse to do some Easter baking and this cream tart is the perfect treat to serve to friends and - [Halloween Pumpkin Spiced Cream Tart](https://loveswah.com/halloween-pumpkin-spiced-cream-tart/) - You’ve probably seen these double decker cookie cakes covered with fresh flowers and fruits across your social media channels lately and they have become known as “Cream Tarts”. I made an Easter version earlier this year and it went bonkers on the internet and I was thrilled to see so many of you make your - [Nutella Fudge with Hazelnuts and Sea Salt](https://loveswah.com/nutella-fudge-with-hazelnuts-and-sea-salt/) - Happy World Nutella Day everyone! February 5th is the day the internet likes to celebrate this amazing spread. Sara from Ms. Adventures in Italy and Michelle from Bleeding Espresso declare today a day to celebrate, to get creative with, and most importantly, to EAT Nutella. I am obviously a BIG fan of Nutella and love using it in my recipes whenever possible - [Chocolate Joys - A Chocolate Crackle x Honey Joy Hybrid](https://loveswah.com/chocolate-joys-a-chocolate-crackle-x-honey-joy-hybrid/) - I love reminiscing about the childhood treats from my youth - fairy bread, chocolate crackles, Australian Women's Weekly Birthday Cakes, honey joys and more. This month's Sweet Adventures Blog Hop is hosted by the lovely Sophie from The Sticky and Sweet with the theme Childhood Favourite. Today I will be sharing with you two of my favourite - [The World's Best Brownies](https://loveswah.com/the-worlds-best-brownies/) - I don't bother to order brownies when out anymore, they all pale in comparison to these amazingly rich, fudgey, heavenly brownies. Enjoy! - [Caramel Slice](https://loveswah.com/caramel-slice/) - Last time my boyfriend had a birthday party I offered to make him a deliciously decadent cake. I wanted to go all out to help him celebrate. But I was politely rebuffed and instead he insisted I make my famous caramel slice. I was a bit taken aback since there is nothing overly festive or - [Dark Chocolate Fudge](https://loveswah.com/dark-chocolate-fudge/) - To be perfectly honest this fudge is so easy to make it's almost embarrassing! If I need to make a treat that is super easy and delicious this recipe is always high on my list. The hardest part is waiting for it to set! Store in the fridge in an air tight container. - [World Nutella Day](https://loveswah.com/world-nutella-day/) - Happy World Nutella Day! Sara from Ms. Adventures in Italy and Michelle from Bleeding Espresso declare Saturday, February 5th World Nutella Day 2011 – a day to celebrate, to get creative with, and most importantly, to EAT Nutella.This day makes me very happy as Nutella is my favourite spread in the world (sorry peanut butter). My boyfriend usually has - [Vanilla Cupcakes with Vanilla Buttercream Icing](https://loveswah.com/vanilla-cupcakes-with-vanilla-buttercream-icing/) - This classic vanilla cupcake is a staple in my cupcake repertoire. Feel free to tint the icing different colours to suit the client (or your mood!) - [Red Velvet Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Icing](https://loveswah.com/red-velvet-cupcakes-with-cream-cheese-icing/) - This was the first red velvet cupcake I have ever baked and eaten and I am in love! This cupcake is steadily becoming one of my most popular, as the last 3 functions that I baked for ALL asked for my red velvet! Enjoy! - [Gingerbread](https://loveswah.com/gingerbread/) - I love this gingerbread recipe and bake it regularly. It's not dry like most gingerbread I have tried and is incredibly moreish. Don't be afraid to steer away from the traditional gingerbread men shape and experiment with different cookie cutters. I love these jigsaw piece cutters I recently purchased! - [ANZAC Biscuits](https://loveswah.com/anzac-biscuits/) - ANZAC Day falls on the 25th April and is celebrated by both Australia and New Zealand to honour members of the Australia and New Zealand Army Corps who fought in Gallipoli during World War I. A long standing tradition is to bake ANZAC biscuits, baked by anxious wives and mothers during World War I and - [Lemon Cupcakes](https://loveswah.com/lemon-cupcakes/) - These lemon cupcakes are the perfect balance between sweet and sour and are thoroughly addictive! This photo is from a cupcake course I ran for an engagement party. My cupcake is the one with the little pink flower, the rest were decorated by my students! Enjoy! - [Hazelnut macarons with strawberry and white chocolate ganache](https://loveswah.com/hazelnut-macarons-with-strawberry-and-white-chocolate-ganache/) - I have a confession to make. I am allergic to almonds - yes that's right, that delicious nut frequently used in baking. I can eat any other nut except almonds - and boy do I get sick if I ingest even a small amount. And my father has the exact same reaction! Strange. Now as - [Swah's Granola](https://loveswah.com/swahs-granola/) - For once I have an almost healthy recipe for you *gasp*. Before you completely freak out, fear not - it tastes absolutely delicious! I like the idea of granola but always find it either too sweet and buttery or full of almonds (you can hear me whinge about my allergy to almonds here). So of course - [Choc Chip Cookies](https://loveswah.com/choc-chip-cookies/) - Ah the humble choc chip cookie. So popular, yet often done so badly. This recipe I use is the best one I have found - the high ratio of brown sugar ensures the cookies are chewy in the middle and crunchy on the outside. But beware these cookies like to spread when they bake! The - [White Chocolate Cupcakes](https://loveswah.com/white-chocolate-cupcakes/) - These white chocolate cupcakes are a delicious and elegant treat. The white chocolate icing is paired with a vanilla cupcake base, however you can get creative and add raspberries to your cupcake mixture for a sharp flavour contrast. The gorgeous cupcake wrappers and buttons are from Donna Hay, I love them!! - [Sesame seed biscuits with dulce de leche](https://loveswah.com/sesame-seed-biscuits-with-dulce-de-leche/) - These buttery biscuits covered with sesame seeds and smothered in dulce de leche are a real treat! You make a bit of a mess eating them, but that's half the fun :) Delicious! - [Spiced cookies with salted caramel buttercream](https://loveswah.com/spiced-cookies-with-salted-caramel-buttercream/) - I have made these cookies 3 times in the past 2 weeks due to popular demand! In fact a guy in my class declared them "the best cookie I have ever eaten" (thanks Jason!) This recipe makes 24 cookies (12 filled cookies in total) and my god are they decadently amazing. Enjoy! - [Christmas ginger cupcakes with cream cheese icing](https://loveswah.com/christmas-ginger-cupcakes-with-cream-cheese-icing/) - Merry Christmas everyone! I hope you are all having a lovely day with family or friends and eating FAR too much. I made these festive ginger cupcakes for visiting relatives and they were a huge hit! Feel free to add 2 teaspoons of cinnamon to the cream cheese icing for an extra flavour hit. - [Devilishly Decadent Devil's Food Cupcakes](https://loveswah.com/devilishly-decadent-devils-food-cupcakes/) - I've tried many a bad chocolate cupcake in my life and went on a sort of quest to perfect my own chocolate cupcake recipe. I think these chocolate cupcakes come pretty close to perfection - decadently dark and rich and not too sweet. - [Happy Easter! Chocolate Peanut Butter Birds Nest Cupcakes](https://loveswah.com/happy-easter-chocolate-peanut-butter-birds-nest-cupcakes/) - I wanted to make a festive cupcake to celebrate Easter that combined Easter eggs and my current craving for chocolate and peanut butter. I settled on a chocolate cupcake with peanut butter icing, and then made "nests" out of chocolate noodles, completing the look with a little egg placed in each nest. I also - [Chai Cupcakes](https://loveswah.com/inspired-by-tea-chai-cupcakes/) - I love tea! I can't start the day without a strong cup of English Breakfast, followed by an afternoon pick-me-up of Earl Grey and finishing the day with a cup of peppermint tea after dinner. When I feel like indulging I brew up a strong cup of chai tea with an array of spices including - [Banoffee Pie with Salted Pretzel Crust](https://loveswah.com/banoffee-pie-with-salted-pretzel-crust/) - This month's theme for the Sweet Adventures Blog Hop is PIE, something I don't often make as I usually get distracted by cupcakes or cookies. Peanut butter chocolate pie, apple cobbler and pumpkin pie were a few of the ideas that swirled through my head but I finally settled on a well loved classic - the Banoffee - [Triple Decker Ferrero Rocher Cake with Nutella Buttercream](https://loveswah.com/triple-decker-ferrero-rocher-cake-with-nutella-buttercream/) - This month's theme for the Sweet Adventures Blog Hop was Nuts About Sweets - a seemingly easy theme until you get overwhelmed by the amount of options available! I love hazelnuts and I love chocolate so it made perfect sense to combine these into a Ferrero Rocher cake complete with a decadent Nutella buttercream! The - [Toasted Coconut Bread](https://loveswah.com/toasted-coconut-bread/) - I discovered this Coconut Bread recipe by Bill Granger recently via Tara from Vegetaraian. I loved this twist on the normal banana bread I love so dearly but felt Bill's recipe was a bit dry and the coconut flavour not strong enough for my coconut-loving taste buds. I made a few tweaks to his recipe - I swapped - [Passionfruit Slice](https://loveswah.com/passionfruit-slice/) - I love recipes passed down from generation to generation and was recently sent this beautiful old recipe for passionfruit slice by a friend from his Mum. Since most of my recipes are now printed off from the internet and then hastily stuffed in my binder folder, I love coming across old faded and hand typed - [Raspberry Crème Brûlée](https://loveswah.com/raspberry-creme-brulee/) - This month’s theme for the Sweet Adventures Blog Hop is Berry Nice to Meet you - berries! This theme has gotten me very excited for spring and thinking about tarts piled high with fresh berries and pavlova covered with cream and strawberries, however as it was still 10 degrees outside when I started to bake I thought - [Coconut Cupcakes](https://loveswah.com/coconut-cupcakes/) - I love high tea and have blogged about it here and here. The idea of spending an afternoon with your girlfriends sampling an array of sandwiches, scones and pastries whilst sipping on tea or bubbles is heavenly! When I heard this month's theme for the Sweet Adventures Blog Hop was High Tea I knew I had to - [Carrot Cake with Coconut Cream Cheese Icing](https://loveswah.com/carrot-cake-with-coconut-cream-cheese-icing/) - This month's theme on SABH is Cake & Three Veg. I toyed with the idea of a chocolate-beetroot cake or a chocolate and avocado mousse but after eying off the lonely carrots rattling around the bottom of my fridge I decided to perfect my carrot cake recipe. The initial plan - a two layered dense and - [Brownie Cupcakes with Strawberry Santa Hats](https://loveswah.com/brownie-cupcakes-with-strawberry-santa-hats/) - This month's SABH is of course Christmas themed - Sweets for Santa! One of my favourite combinations is strawberry and chocolate (as seen here), and I loved the idea of individual brownie cupcakes decorated with strawberries, cream and white chocolate for the perfect Santa treat. Tada! Little Santa hats! - [Pineapple and Coconut Cupcakes](https://loveswah.com/pineapple-and-coconut-cupcakes/) - After returning from a wonderful holiday in Vietnam I had a new found appreciation for tropical fruits. I was constantly snacking on a variety of fresh pineapple, dragon fruit and lychees and drinking copious amounts of fresh coconut juice (straight out of the coconut of course!) This month's theme for SABH is Tropical Paradise and I - [Nutella Cheesecake](https://loveswah.com/nutella-cheesecake/) - Happy World Nutella Day everyone! Every year on 5 February, Nutella fans around the world celebrate this delicious chocolate hazelnut spread, sharing recipes, photos and more. Hosted by Bleeding Espresso and Ms Adventures in Italy, it's a fun way to think up new Nutella based recipes and basically just a good excuse to eat more Nutella - [Happy Valentine's Day! Red Velvet Surprise Cupcakes with White Chocolate Icing](https://loveswah.com/happy-valentines-day-red-velvet-surprise-cupcakes-with-white-chocolate-icing/) - I don't really celebrate Valentine's Day, however I do love receiving gifts AND kitschy baking so I can't complain. I found the most gorgeous Valentine's Day cake toppers months ago and have been dying to bust them out. I pimped out my standard red velvet cupcake recipe by adding a white chocolate cream cheese icing (heaven, - [Champagne Cupcakes with Strawberry Filling](https://loveswah.com/champagne-cupcakes-with-strawberry-filling/) - This month's Sweet Adventure's Blog Hop theme is cocktail party! I have been wanting to try and make a champagne cupcake lately and thought this would be the perfect opportunity. I used champagne (well, Prosecco - I'm not rich!) in the cupcake batter to produce lovely fluffy and light cupcakes, and reduced champagne mixture in the buttercream for - [Coconut Macaroons and Easter Birds Nests](https://loveswah.com/coconut-macaroons-and-easter-birds-nests/) - I recently tried a coconut macaroon at Lorraine's Patisserie and fell in love - it was so light and full of crunchy coconut. Heaven. (And before you ask, I am not talking about the often confused macaron, there is a recipe for one here if you like). And since Easter is coming up, I couldn't - [Bunny Biscuits filled with homemade Dulce de Leche and Nutella](https://loveswah.com/bunny-biscuits-filled-with-homemade-dulce-de-leche-and-nutella/) - I hope you've all had a wonderful and chocolate-filled Easter break! My addiction to cookie cutters is getting worse and after stumbling upon some bunny shaped ones in a variety store, I KNEW I had to make bunny biscuits for Easter! I wanted to fill them with something delicious and ended up making my own - [Homemade Nutella (Gluten and Dairy Free!)](https://loveswah.com/homemade-nutella-gluten-and-dairy-free/) - I loooooove Nutella and try to avoid keeping it in the house as you will always find me in the kitchen clutching a jar, spoon in hand. This is the perfect treat for those who are on a gluten or dairy free diet, who dislike additives in their food or who simply just love the - [Apple & Walnut Spiced Loaf with Streusel Topping](https://loveswah.com/apple-walnut-spiced-loaf-with-streusel-topping/) - Autumn is settling in to Sydney and bringing with it a delicious array of seasonal fruits, vegetables and nuts. This month's Sweet Adventure's Blog Hop focuses on seasonal produce and gave me a chance to develop a recipe with two of my favourite autumn ingredients - apples and walnuts! Naturally I had to add spices - [DIY Dulce de Leche](https://loveswah.com/diy-dulce-de-leche/) - Last year I posted about receiving 2 jars of delicious Dulce de Leche (or in Portuguese Doce de Leite) from my cousin who had just returned from South America. Unsurprisingly the jars were finished a little too quickly. After some internet research I discovered you can buy the real deal from Mi Casa Fine Foods, or at a store called La Torre, 9 - [Pavlova with Cream, Passionfruit and Kiwi](https://loveswah.com/pavlova-with-cream-passionfruit-and-kiwi/) - When I asked my friend what he wanted me to bake for his birthday he instantly declared pavlova! I must admit I had a bit of "pavlova anxiety". Having eaten a fair bit of bad pav in my life - dried out, collapsed or even undercooked (ugh) I wanted to perfect my recipe. Fortunately this - [Dark Chocolate Mocha Tart](https://loveswah.com/dark-chocolate-mocha-tart/) - This bittersweet dark chocolate mocha tart is rich in flavour and texture and perfectly contrasts with the buttery French pastry used in the tart. I first came across this unique way to make French butter pastry from JJ at 84th and 3rd, who discovered the technique from David Leibovitz. It involves heating the butter, oil, - [Salted Caramel Chip Cookies](https://loveswah.com/salted-caramel-chip-cookies/) - I was craving cookies over the rainy weekend and wanted to jazz up my standard chocolate chip cookie recipe. I found some Nestle caramel chips in the supermarket and thought a salted caramel cookie would be a winner! These cookies are so easy to prepare and the dough can be pulled together in under 10 - [Choc Chip Blondies with a Salted Caramel Drizzle](https://loveswah.com/choc-chip-blondies-with-a-salted-caramel-drizzle/) - I've never actually tried a Blondie before I made this recipe and curiosity finally got the better of me. What is a Blondie, I hear you ask? It's like a Brownie in shape and texture, but flavoured with brown sugar instead of cocoa powder. To be honest I actually thought it sounded a little bland. I added dark - [The Nutella Fauxnut - A Super Easy DIY Cronut!](https://loveswah.com/the-nutella-fauxnut-a-super-easy-diy-cronut/) - By now we've all pretty much heard of the Cronut™. The croissant/donut hybrid created in New York by chef Dominique Ansel that has seen people queuing up from before 5am in the morning just to give it a try. His version is rolled in sugar, filled with cream and then topped with glaze (in May it was - [Jelly Donut Cupcakes](https://loveswah.com/jelly-donut-cupcakes/) - I was recently asked by Pigeonhole Gatherings (run by the lovely Lauren and Katie, I designed their logo and identity) to bake for their charity bake sale at the Redwater Markets in Redfern to raise money for the Sydney Story Factory. The theme? Bake Sale vs Cake Stall, a good old USA vs Australia bake off! Food bloggers - [Rosewater and Pistachio Cupcakes... with a surprise inside!](https://loveswah.com/rosewater-and-pistachio-cupcakes/) - This is my first time hosting the Sweet Adventures Blog Hop and I wanted to set a challenge that was both fun and encouraged your imagination to run wild. I've always been a bit ambivalent towards surprises, but have to admit they always make life a little bit more exciting - especially when dessert is involved! - [Salted Butter Caramels - The Sweet Swap](https://loveswah.com/salted-butter-caramels/) - When I first heard about The Sweet Swap I was both excited and nervous. Excited at the prospect of receiving 3 treats from fellow food bloggers, yet nervous about baking something worthy (and postable!) to my fellow foodies. My Salted Butter Caramels ended up looking and tasting great, but it wasn't smooth sailing. My first batch - [Coconut Cookies with Caramelised White Chocolate](https://loveswah.com/coconut-cookies-with-caramelised-white-chocolate/) - I was very excited to hear this month's Sweet Adventures Blog Hop theme was COOKIE MONSTER and hosted by Sophie from The Sticky and Sweet. I love cookies (or biscuits as they're more often referred to in Australia) and I knew I wanted to make a cookie sandwich - what's better than 1 cookie? 2 cookies sandwiched - [Triple Salted Caramel Cupcakes](https://loveswah.com/triple-salted-caramel-cupcakes/) - Is there anything better in life than salted caramel? Possibly kittens but that's all I can think of off the top of my head. My love for salted caramel is well documented and I knew I had to translate this obsession into the perfect cupcake. This salted caramel cupcake is a triple threat - the cupcake - [Raw Cashew and Coconut Protein Balls](https://loveswah.com/raw-cashew-and-coconut-protein-balls/) - Well, this is a first for Love Swah. A healthy recipe. That's raw. And gluten and dairy free. No, I haven't gone mad! Would you believe when I am not baking up and sampling delicious chocolate pavlovas or triple salted caramel cupcakes, I am actually quite healthy? I have been wanting to create my own - [Peanut Butter Chocolate Protein Balls](https://loveswah.com/peanut-butter-chocolate-protein-balls/) - Hey guys! Here is another protein ball recipe to complement last week's Raw Cashew and Coconut recipe. Inspired by the lovely Tina from Bite Me Show Me, I tweaked this recipe to suit what ingredients I had in the cupboard. The rich chocolate and peanut butter flavour makes this a decadent-tasting ball, but they are still - [Pumpkin & Coconut Cake Bites - A guest post](https://loveswah.com/pumpkin-coconut-cake-bites-a-guest-post/) - Whilst I am off eating/drinking/buying everything in sight in America, I am lucky enough to have 3 very talented bloggers to guest post when I am away! If want to follow my USA adventures, my Instagram account is your best bet. First off I have the lovely JJ from 84th and 3rd with a delicious looking dessert! - [Halloween Bleeding Cake](https://loveswah.com/halloween-bleeding-cake/) - Hello from America! I am writing this post in quite the jet lagged haze, so please excuse if I stop making sense. I was excited to find out that this month's Sweet Adventures Blog Hop was Halloween themed! I wanted to create something gruesome but beautiful, and ofcourse delicious. I toyed with the idea of - [Baked Doughnut Holes with Jaffa Ganache - A guest post](https://loveswah.com/baked-doughnut-holes-with-jaffa-ganache-a-guest-post/) - Happy Halloween everyone! I am currently in New Orleans, so I have the wonderful Erika Rax posting a delicious-looking and suitably-themed recipe for you all! *** Hey Love Swah-ers! Swah has asked me to distract you guys from the fact that she is off galavanting in the US without us by sharing a sweet recipe. So - [Choc Chip Cookie Cheesecake](https://loveswah.com/choc-chip-cookie-cheesecake/) - I wanted to create a dessert that echoed the beloved cookies and cream flavour combination and with this month's Sweet Adventure's Blog Hop being cheese-themed, I knew a cookies 'n' cream cheesecake was the answer. I described this cake to someone as "a choc chip cookie and a cheesecake had a baby and the result was amazing" - [Candy Cane Reindeer Cupcakes](https://loveswah.com/candy-cane-reindeer-cupcakes/) - In America I stumbled upon a delicious snack (in Walgreens of all places) which involved chocolate covered pretzels covered in crushed candy canes. The salty pretzel combined with the rich dark chocolate and minty candy cane was a winning flavour combination and NEEDED to be made into cupcake form. I used my chocolate Devil's Food - [White Chocolate and Lime Christmas Bauble Truffles](https://loveswah.com/white-chocolate-and-lime-christmas-bauble-truffles/) - I was super excited when I found out that this month's Sweet Adventures Blog Hop was truffle themed! No, not that delicious smelling mushroom, but a ganache-filled chocolate treat. My mind whirred with Christmassy ideas... snowman truffles with a spiced centre? Truffles decorated as mini Christmas puddings? I loved getting creative with this recipe (and - [Gingerbread Decorating Class at Brasserie Bread](https://loveswah.com/gingerbread-decorating-class-at-brasserie-bread/) - I LOVE gingerbread and make it regularly using a recipe I've been baking since I was a kid. When Brasserie Bread offered us the chance to take a gingerbread decorating class I couldn't wait! I have done a bread making course with Brasserie Bread before, and find their courses informative, fun and most of all - [Coconut and Salted Caramel Ice Cream](https://loveswah.com/coconut-and-salted-caramel-ice-cream/) - I've always wanted to try and make my own ice cream, and have had limited success with no-churn ice creams and sorbets. But the texture was always not quite right, and I knew I needed some machinery to get the job done. When Kitchenware Superstore approached me and offered me something from their range, an - [Lonely Girl Pancakes - A Single Serve Pancake Recipe](https://loveswah.com/lonely-girl-a-single-serve-pancake-recipe/) - I had an intense pancake craving the other weekend, but had no one to enjoy them with and didn't want stacks of leftovers. So I thought I'd improvise a single serve pancake recipe partially out of curiosity, and partially because I have no self control and would end up eating the remainders cold, straight out - [Pomegranate, White Tea and Mint Popsicles](https://loveswah.com/pomegranate-white-tea-and-mint-popsicles/) - Popsicle mania seems to have swept the internet recently and I've seen all sorts of wonderful concoctions being whipped up. I was speaking with the lovely Erika recently over a cocktail (or three) and we were enthusing about our love for popsicles - or icy poles, as they're known in Australia. Not only are they simple to - [Chocolate Pavlova with Nutella and Strawberries](https://loveswah.com/chocolate-pavlova-with-nutella-and-strawberries/) - You can't beat a classic pavlova with crunchy white clouds of meringue and cream, or can you? How about a chocolate pavlova? With Nutella? Now we're talking! I made this a double decker pavlova purely to have an excuse to fit more Nutella, strawberries and cream between the layers :) Here we have the first layer - [Nutella Croffle - A Croissant x Waffle](https://loveswah.com/nutella-croffle-a-croissant-x-waffle/) - This recipe is based on a love story, between 2 of my favourite things - croissants and waffles. Oh, and Nutella! It's called a Croffle, and I have decided to fill it with Nutella to produce quite possibly the easiest and most delicious dessert I've ever made. I love trying to shove pretty much anything - [2 Ingredient Ice Cream Microwave Mug Cake](https://loveswah.com/2-ingredient-ice-cream-microwave-mug-cake/) - My love for quick, easy and small batch desserts has inadvertently turned me into the single serve recipe queen! My Microwave Mug Cakes consistently rank amongst my most popular recipe, and I am super excited to bring you the easiest mug cake to date. It uses 1 cup, 2 ingredients and cooks in 3 minutes! - [Cheat's Chicken Rice - Make an easy version of Hainanese Chicken Rice at home!](https://loveswah.com/cheats-chicken-rice-make-an-easy-version-of-hainanese-chicken-rice-at-home/) - Brought to you by Nuffnang and SunRice The first time I tried Hainanese Chicken Rice was from the famous Tian Tian stall at Maxwell Food Centre in Singapore. Though Hainanese Chicken Rice is named after Hainan in China, it became famous when this dish was brought to Singapore. The chicken is blanched in boiling water until - [Single Serve Sticky Date Pudding Mug Cake](https://loveswah.com/single-serve-sticky-date-pudding-mug-cake/) - Sticky date pudding has to be one of my favourite desserts, ever. But due to my lack of self control, I rarely make a full batch of it, as you better believe I'll eat the entire thing in one sitting! But fellow pudding fans, let's rejoice, as I have mastered the single serve mug cake - [ANZAC Caramel Slice](https://loveswah.com/anzac-caramel-slice/) - There are 2 desserts I can't bake too often because I will likely devour them before they even get photographed. These are my ANZAC Biscuits and Caramel Slice. So of course, being the masochist I am, I decided to combine them into possibly the most addictive and decadent dessert ever. Hello ANZAC Biscuit Caramel Slice! - [Banana Caramel Pancakes](https://loveswah.com/banana-caramel-pancakes/) - My nickname for these pancakes is "Faileo Pancakes". Why? Because I started off with a paleo pancake recipe and then covered it in caramel. Just because. And it's DELICIOUS. Plus it's super easy and gluten free! Forget the usual flour, milk and sugar - the base recipe uses just 3 ingredients - bananas, eggs and baking - [Hot Cross Bun Cupcakes](https://loveswah.com/hot-cross-bun-cupcakes/) - I LOVE Hot Cross Buns, it's definitely one of the highlights of Easter for me. And I'm not one of those Hot Cross Bun purists either - choc chip, caramel, dried fruit, it's all good to me! I was in Woolworths recently and noticed they had produced a Sticky Date & Caramel Hot Cross Bun. - [Choc Raspberry Vegan Mousse](https://loveswah.com/choc-raspberry-vegan-mousse/) - Those of you who are familiar with my baking know I am pretty heavy handed with the butter, sugar, eggs and flour. But I LOVE getting creative in the kitchen, and have been tweaking and creating new recipes lately to make them gluten or dairy free, or even vegan, for friends and family with intolerances - [White Chocolate Easter Bark with Popping Candy](https://loveswah.com/white-chocolate-easter-bark-with-popping-candy/) - This is a super easy and fun Easter recipe that makes a great present. It was my first time marbling chocolate and I must admit I over mixed it in excitement and it ended up looking slightly like a psychedelic acid trip. With edible glitter! It's an incredibly flexible recipe that you can tailor to - [Choc Chip Banana Bread with Chocolate Ganache](https://loveswah.com/choc-chip-banana-bread-with-chocolate-ganache/) - There is nothing better than a freshly baked piece of banana bread. Or is there? How about we stuff the banana bread full of choc chips and then drizzle it in a decadent chocolate ganache? This is Next Level Banana Bread. Choc Chip Banana Bread with Chocolate Ganache There is nothing better than a freshly - [Raspberry and Coconut Cupcakes](https://loveswah.com/raspberry-and-coconut-cupcakes/) - I was asked to create some cupcakes for a friend's 30th that "weren't too sweet", and after ignoring her boring request of vanilla (sorry) I knew something featuring berries was the way to go. It also helped that the colour theme for her birthday was pink, so I could colour the icing naturally. Raspberry and - [Banana and Nutella Swirl Muffins](https://loveswah.com/banana-and-nutella-swirl-muffins/) - As much as I love whipping up grand triple-layered cakes and carefully piping buttercream roses, sometimes it's nice to just bake something easy and comforting. No fancy decorations, no heavy machinery required - just a bowl, a spoon and a mixing hand at the ready. I had a few overripe bananas in the freezer that - [Dairy-Free Chocolate Cupcakes](https://loveswah.com/dairy-free-chocolate-cupcakes/) - I'm usually rather heavy-handed with the butter and milk in my baking, so when I was asked by a client to bake some dairy-free cupcakes for an upcoming hens party, I must admit I was a little nervous. After a lot of research on dairy alternatives and testing some recipes in the kitchen, I was - [Dark Chocolate and Strawberry Cupcakes](https://loveswah.com/dark-chocolate-and-strawberry-cupcakes/) - I get my baking inspiration from a huge range of sources, from a pin I see on Pinterest, to a dessert I try at a restaurant whilst abroad. This week's inspiration was from a block of Lindt chocolate my mother gave me when I was feeling sick. "Chocolate is very therapeutic" she said (what a - [Salted Caramel and Tim Tam Cheesecake](https://loveswah.com/salted-caramel-and-tim-tam-cheesecake/) - This decadent cake combines three of my favourite things - salted caramel, Tim Tams and cheesecake. And unsurprisingly, they each complement each other perfectly. However, you just might need a lie down after eating a slice. This cheesecake is simple to make and just requires a bit of patience to allow each layer to set. - [Single Serve Choc Chip Skillet Cookie](https://loveswah.com/single-serve-choc-chip-skillet-cookie/) - It's no secret I love single serve recipes partially due to my lack of self control, and it seems you guys love them too considering the current most popular recipe on the blog is my Single Serve Lonely Girl Pancakes! I've been meaning to try a single serve chocolate chip cookie for aaaaages, and as luck would - [Crap Free Muesli Bars](https://loveswah.com/crap-free-muesli-bars/) - 1 1/2 cups rolled oats (use quinoa flakes for a gluten free option)1/3 cup activated sunflower seeds1/3 cup activated pumpkin seeds1/4 cup sesame seeds2 tbp chia seeds1/3 cup coconut flakes1/4 cup chopped raw cashews (or nut of your choice)1/2 cup rice malt syrup1/4 cup coconut oil1/4 cup boiling waterGenerous pinch of sea salt Preheat oven - [Chocolate Chip Oat Cookies](https://loveswah.com/chocolate-chip-oat-cookies/) - The secret to these delicious Chocolate Chip Oat Cookies is Demerara sugar - the large crystals in the sugar give the cookie a crunchy texture and imparts a subtle caramel flavour. The best way to describe these Oat Cookies is to pretend a Choc Chip Cookie and an ANZAC Biscuit had a love child. Think a - [Microwave Mug Cakes - #1 Dark Chocolate](https://loveswah.com/microwave-mug-cakes-1-dark-chocolate/) - I love the concept of a microwave mug cake - stir a few pantry ingredients in a mug, zap in the microwave for a minute and then ta da! (Nearly) instant pudding for one! It was a lot of fun thinking of different flavours of mug cakes and of course, taste testing each of them. - [Microwave Mug Cakes – #2 Salted Caramel](https://loveswah.com/microwave-mug-cakes-2-salted-caramel/) - This is the second recipe in my Microwave Mug Cake series (you can find #1 Dark Chocolate here) and of course I had to chose my favourite flavour of the moment, salted caramel! The brown sugar in this mug cake gives it a rich and caramelised flavour and you are treated to a delicious surprise - [Microwave Mug Cakes – #3 S'mores](https://loveswah.com/microwave-mug-cakes-3-smores/) - I'm stepping up my game in my Microwave Mug Cake series. First we had dark chocolate, then salted caramel... and now S'MORES! For those who don't know what a S'more is, it consists of marshmallow and a layer of chocolate sandwiched between two pieces of graham cracker and roasted over a camp fire into a gooey mess. Heaven. I am - [Microwave Mug Cakes – #4 Banana](https://loveswah.com/microwave-mug-cakes-4-banana/) - This is the last (but certainly not least) addition to my Microwave Mug Cake series - banana! First we had dark chocolate, then salted caramel, followed by S'mores. I like to refer to this mug cake as "breakfast in a cup" as it combines two of my favourite breakfast items - banana bread and coffee! But I guarantee - [Strawberry and Coconut Ombré Cakes](https://loveswah.com/strawberry-and-coconut-ombre-cakes/) - I've always been intrigued but a little threatened by Ombré cakes, but when JJ from 84th and 3rd announced a new SABH challenge for Ombré, I knew I had to step up to the challenge. So what is ombré, I hear you ask? Ombré is the French word for colour that is shaded or graduated in - [Chai Hot Chocolate](https://loveswah.com/chai-hot-chocolate/) - I find most store bought hot chocolate mixes are a little too sweet and artificial tasting for my liking. But it's so easy to make your own hot chocolate powder and I've turned it up a notch by adding in chai spices and finely chopped dark chocolate. You can fully customise the level of sweetness - [Salted Caramel Popcorn Brownies](https://loveswah.com/salted-caramel-popcorn-brownies/) - After last year's slightly traumatic Sweet Swap (I ruined my sweets 3 times in a row), I wasn't sure if I'd sign up to The Sweet Swap again. But let's be honest, the only thing I love more than making baked goods is receiving baked goods! I wanted to bake something decadent yet sturdy, as - [Mini Baked Donuts with Dark Chocolate Ganache](https://loveswah.com/mini-baked-donuts-with-dark-chocolate-ganache/) - Donuts! Who doesn't love donuts! I thought I'd try and make a "healthier" version by baking them in the oven instead of deep frying these little beauties, however my decision to coat them in a decadent dark chocolate ganache probably negated that. I won't lie, I had to test this recipe 3 times before I - [Strawberry and Mint Lemonade using SodaStream](https://loveswah.com/strawberry-and-mint-lemonade-using-sodastream/) - The weather is heating up in Australia as summer approaches and I am always on the look out for a delicious new drink to whip up and enjoy on a lazy afternoon. Now it's easy to make your own personalised drinks with a few simple ingredients thanks to the SodaStream Play! Created by world-renowned designer - [Boozy Hot Chocolate](https://loveswah.com/boozy-hot-chocolate/) - I feel like the only thing better than hot chocolate is boozy hot chocolate. I made a rather impressive Chai Hot Chocolate drink recently and managed to make it even tastier with the addition of Kahlua and Frangelico! This boozy hot chocolate is the perfect treat to cap off to a delicious meal, and you - [Candy Cane Donuts with White Chocolate](https://loveswah.com/candy-cane-donuts-with-white-chocolate/) - It's the first day of December and what does that mean? The countdown to Christmas starts! To celebrate I am sharing with you a different festive Christmas donut recipe each week. As much as I love making (and especially eating) donuts, the thought of hovering over a hot pot of boiling oil to deep fry - [Coconut, Berry and Chia Porridge](https://loveswah.com/coconut-berry-and-chia-porridge/) - Cold winter mornings equals porridge in my books - it's like a big warm hug. I've been making this coconut, berry and chia porridge religiously for the past 2 months and I'm still not sick of it! Using coconut milk instead of cow's milk not only gives it a great coconutty flavour, but means it's - [Strawberry and Coconut Cake Pops](https://loveswah.com/strawberry-and-coconut-cake-pops/) - This is my first foray into the world of Cake Pops, which are cake crumbled and mixed with icing, rolled into balls and then dipped in melted chocolate. I hate to waste food, and I had a lot of left over cake and icing from my Strawberry and Coconut Ombre Cakes. So cake pops were - [Brown Butter Choc Chip Cookies with Sea Salt](https://loveswah.com/brown-butter-choc-chip-cookies-with-sea-salt/) - It seems it is indeed possible to improve on perfection. I've been making my delicious Choc Chip Cookie recipe for years now, but the other day I wondered if I could make it even better. I've heard of the idea of browning your butter before adding it to baking, giving the dessert a nutty, toasted - [Christmas Bling Donuts](https://loveswah.com/christmas-bling-donuts/) - If you want to add a little sparkle to your Christmas, then these mini "Bling Donuts" may be your answer! Not only are they easy to make, you can get as creative as your mind lets you and it's a fun thing to get the kids involved with too! I kept the flavours of this - [Popping Candy Donuts](https://loveswah.com/popping-candy-donuts/) - Is there anything more exciting than popping candy? How about popping candy and donuts? When I stumbled upon these tubes of "Festive Popping Candy" in the supermarket recently, I knew they would make the perfect Christmas-themed donut. The tart sweetness of the strawberry and apple flavoured popping candy contrasts well with the double chocolate donuts - [Panettone Waffles - Using up Christmas leftovers](https://loveswah.com/panettone-waffles-using-up-christmas-leftovers/) - I hope everyone had a wonderful and relaxing Christmas and ate way too much! Whilst I've worked my way through the leftover ham and trimmings, there is always the lone Panettone, sitting there lost and forgotten. Every year someone feels obliged to bring a giant Panettone, and every year it goes largely uneaten. For those - [Brownie Bites filled with Peanut Butter](https://loveswah.com/brownie-bites-filled-with-peanut-butter/) - Is there anything better than a rich and fudgey dark chocolate brownie? How about a salted caramel popcorn brownie? I had some leftover brownie batter recently and wondered what to do with it. It wasn't quite enough to fill a baking pan, so I decided to grease up a mini muffin tin and try brownie - [Super Easy 3 Ingredient Nutella Donuts for World Nutella Day](https://loveswah.com/super-easy-3-ingredient-nutella-donuts/) - Today is a very important day. It is World Nutella Day, an homage to my favourite spread! Thanks to Ms Adventures in Italy and Bleeding Espresso, every year we celebrate this delightful treat and I incorporate it into a new and delicious recipe. Want to give any of these Nutella recipes a go? Head along to this link and prepare - [Cranberry and White Chocolate Cookie Sandwiches](https://loveswah.com/cranberry-and-white-chocolate-cookie-sandwiches/) - I love using dried fruit in baking for an easy and quick dose of flavour and texture. Cranberries add an extra layer of tartness to any dessert, which is why I love pairing them with white chocolate. The lovely folks at Ocean Spray sent me some dried cranberries and cranberry sauce recently to get creative - [German Gingerbread "Pfeffernüsse" Donuts](https://loveswah.com/german-gingerbread-pfeffernusse-donuts/) - Whenever I think of Christmas treats, I think of gingerbread. Specifically, Pfeffernüsse, those round German cookies covered in powdered sugar you often find in the grocery store at this time of year (I got mine from Aldi). Image from Claire K Creations So what exactly are Pfeffernüsse, I hear you ask? If you can't find them, - [Lamington Cake with Milo Icing for Australia Day](https://loveswah.com/lamington-cake-with-milo-icing-for-australia-day/) - This weekend is the Australia Day long weekend, which means a day off work, listening to the Triple J Hottest 100 while day-drinking and the bastardisation of Australian desserts. Which brings me to the Lamington Cake with Milo Icing. Lamingtons are a well-know and loved Aussie treat that are traditionally made with old sponge cake - [Eton Mess Cupcakes](https://loveswah.com/eton-mess-cupcakes/) - One of my favourite desserts to make whenever I need to whip something up last minute is Eton Mess. I can dash to the store, buy some berries, cream and meringues and have dessert on the table within 10 minutes. I decided I wanted to transform this classic English dessert into a cupcake for Valentine's - [Mango and Strawberry Ice Cream with only 2 ingredients!](https://loveswah.com/mango-and-strawberry-ice-cream-with-only-2-ingredients/) - This is the perfect recipe to make when you want an easy and quick dessert. Or if a vegan or dairy/gluten-intolerant friend drops by for dinner. Or if you're feeling hot and bothered and don't want to turn the oven on for a sugar fix. Or even if you've got a few too many overripe - [Guinness Layer Cake with Whiskey Ganache and Baileys Icing](https://loveswah.com/guinness-layer-cake-with-whiskey-ganache-and-baileys-icing/) - My favourite chocolate cake ever is my Dark Chocolate Guinness Cake that has been going bonkers on the internet lately (last count it's been shared over 177,000 times on Facebook alone!) As it's St Patrick's Day this week, I wanted to rework my beloved Guinness Cake into something better. Is it possible? Why yes, I - [Speckled Egg Chocolate Easter Cupcakes](https://loveswah.com/speckled-egg-chocolate-easter-cupcakes/) - Today I am thrilled to have my baking partner in crime, Lucy from Bake Play Smile, share with you an Easter recipe she created just for Love Swah! Combining 2 of my favourite things, holiday-themed treats and cupcakes, these speckled egg chocolate easter cupcakes will have you baking up a storm in no time. I've - [Raspberry Moscow Mule](https://loveswah.com/raspberry-moscow-mule/) - I love pretty much any vodka-based drink, but have never given the Moscow Mule the appreciation it deserves. It's traditionally served in a copper mug (how on trend!) and contains vodka, ginger beer and lime juice, garnished with a slice or wedge of lime. Today I've invited Irene from magnoliahousecreative.com to share with us one of her - [Microwave Chocolate Cupcakes for Two](https://loveswah.com/microwave-chocolate-cupcakes-for-two/) - After the success of my Microwave Mug Cakes series, I knew there were a lot of people after single/double serving recipes that can be made in the microwave. Whether they lacked self control with a large batch of baked goods (me!) or they didn't have an oven in their small apartment, these types of recipes - [Pocky Easter Egg Nest Cake](https://loveswah.com/pocky-easter-egg-nest-cake/) - Oh Easter, how I love you so! I am well and truly in the festive spirit and wanted to bake a magical holiday-themed cake to celebrate. I've been wanting to create a Pocky cake ever since I saw it on Sprinkle Bakes years ago. I thought if I lined the outside of the cake with chocolate - [Super Easy Mini Salted Caramel Tarts](https://loveswah.com/super-easy-mini-salted-caramel-tarts/) - Recently I needed to make a dessert at the last minute, and stumbled around the grocery store for inspiration. I ended up whipping up these super easy and delicious mini Salted Caramel Tarts in under 30 minutes (including setting time) and no one actually knew I used store-bought ingredients! You can make this recipe as budget-friendly - [The Secrets to Successful Chocolate Strawberries](https://loveswah.com/the-secrets-to-successful-chocolate-strawberries/) - Today on the blog I have the lovely Amy from Eat Pray Workout sharing her strawberries secrets with us. Welcome, Amy! Chocolate strawberries are THE bombdigity. Yes, they’re that good that they require description by a verb that exceeds the realms of the English dictionary! Healthy goodness covered in a light layer of chocolate created - [ANZAC Biscuit Lemon Cheesecakes](https://loveswah.com/anzac-biscuit-lemon-cheesecakes/) - This Saturday, April 25th, is ANZAC Day and in addition to commemorating our fallen soldiers, we bake and eat ANZAC biscuits. This famous biscuit featuring rolled oats, coconut and golden syrup was baked by anxious wives and mothers during World War I and sent to the Australian soldiers in the trenches. I love ANZAC biscuits - [The Frida Cocktail](https://loveswah.com/the-frida-cocktail/) - Today I have the lovely Stephanie from The Dessert Spoon sharing one of her favourite cocktails - the Frida Cocktail! I can't wait to give this a try. Move over Mimosa - it's time for a new classic brunch drink! The Frida Cocktail is a bold and refreshing fruity drink with an intriguing herbal twist. I - [Nutella Stuffed Choc Chip Cookies with Sea Salt](https://loveswah.com/nutella-stuffed-choc-chip-cookies-with-sea-salt/) - Is there any thing better in life than a freshly baked choc chip cookie adorned with a sprinkle of sea salt? How about stuffing it with Nutella? This just may be my new favourite cookie. I've played around with my basic chocolate chip cookie for a few years now, each time trying to outdo the - [The Triple Threat Cupcake - A very Aussie, very boozy treat!](https://loveswah.com/the-triple-threat-cupcake-a-very-aussie-very-boozy-treat/) - Have you ever baked with beer? Whilst this beverage probably isn't the first thing you'd think to reach for when trying to make a cake, the addition of stout to a chocolate cake provides a depth of flavour and richness second to none. My first beer cake I ever made was the Guinness Cake with - [Vanilla Bean and Mocha Mini Donuts](https://loveswah.com/vanilla-bean-and-mocha-mini-donuts/) - I must admit when I first bought my donut maker, I thought I'd use it once and then stash it away in storage like the rest of my novelty food machines. But I cannot. Stop. Making. Donuts. Some evidence of previously made donuts can be found here. Once you're done drooling, let's discuss these little - [Blueberry and Lilly Pilly Pavlovas](https://loveswah.com/blueberry-and-lilly-pilly-pavlovas/) - I recently attended an event for the launch of Bonne Maman's new Blueberry and Lilly Pilly jam. The Lilly Pilly is a native Australian bush fruit, which has been combined with blueberries using traditional French jam making practices to create this new conserve. The tartness of the Lilly Pilly contrasts well with the sweetness of the blueberries, and - [Gluten Free Pecan and Cinnamon Cookies](https://loveswah.com/gluten-free-pecan-and-cinnamon-cookies/) - My love for full fat, creamy, sugary treats is well known. While I tend to eat quite healthily most of the time, when it comes to baking desserts I like to indulge. Recently, however, I have been having some stomach issues and after all the nasty possibilities were eliminated through blood tests, the dreaded words came - [Triple Chocolate Meringue Stack](https://loveswah.com/triple-chocolate-meringue-stack/) - I definitely think I have a love affair with the humble meringue. Not only do I love it's crunchy outside and soft, marshmallowy inside, it's so versatile that there are always a million ways to flavour and style it. You can make and fill mini meringue nests with berries and cream, create one huge pavlova with - [Black Bottom Peanut Butter Pie with a Pretzel Crust](https://loveswah.com/black-bottom-peanut-butter-pie-with-a-pretzel-crust/) - This recipe is certainly quite a mouthful in more ways than one! I was gifted a lovely glass pie dish from Pyrex to celebrate their 100 year anniversary and I started out trying to make a simple peanut butter pie. But as always, I had to put my own spin on things! We don't have graham crackers - [Simple Raspberry Semifreddo](https://loveswah.com/simple-raspberry-semifreddo/) - Who needs food colouring when you've got fruit to naturally colour your desserts? This pink is divine! Thanks so much Bec for this gorgeous looking and healthy dessert! I totally would eat this for breakfast. What's your favourite healthy dessert to make? And are you mad like me and love eating cold treats in Winter? - [Moccona Coffee & Maple Bacon Sandwiches](https://loveswah.com/moccona-coffee-maple-bacon-sandwiches/) - I was recently asked by Moccona Coffee to develop a recipe for them for the relaunch of their website. They wanted me to create something that involved 2 of my favourite things in life... coffee and bacon! How could I say no?! After a weekend spent furiously recipe testing in my kitchen, I came out with the most - [Strawberry Milkshake Cupcakes](https://loveswah.com/strawberry-milkshake-cupcakes/) - Sydney is in the midst of a milkshake craze right now, and while it's tempting to jump on the bandwagon and create a ridiculous drink covered in melted chocolate and adorned with an oversized donut, I'm going to stick with what I know best. Cupcakes. (Oh, but I'm not ruling out insane drinks in the future!) - [Chocolate Peanut Butter Bundt Cake](https://loveswah.com/chocolate-peanut-butter-bundt-cake/) - Hi there, my name is Jess and I blog over at Sweetest Menu. I am so excited to be sharing a very special recipe today on Love Swah. I love Swah's work and we both share a passion for delicious baking! So I am thrilled to be popping by and sharing one of my all-time favourite - [Halloween Bloody Eyeball Cupcakes](https://loveswah.com/halloween-bloody-eyeball-cupcakes/) - There's no denying that I love a gruesome dessert now and then (hello Halloween Bleeding Cake, complete with plunged knife) and whenever Halloween comes around I am so ready for a holiday-themed treat. I'm so pleased that Halloween is getting more popular in Australia as I think I love it as much as the kids! Chocolate - [Goats Cheese and Strawberry Tarts](https://loveswah.com/goats-cheese-and-strawberry-tarts/) - I love combining simple ingredients in unique ways, and this was my first time combining sweet and fruity strawberries with the savoury tang of goats cheese. And I think I'm hooked! These little tarts are so easy to whip up, taste delicious and take under 30 minutes to make from start to finish. Win win. 1 - [Strawberry and Mascarpone Cream Layer Cake](https://loveswah.com/strawberry-and-mascarpone-cream-layer-cake/) - As winter slowly starts to leave Sydney, blossoms begin appearing and strawberry prices go down. And that means I want to put strawberries in anything and everything! These strawberries were so fresh and delicious I knew they didn't need much done with them to let their flavours take centre stage. A layer cake sprung to mind, - [Single Serve Peanut Butter and Nutella Skillet Cookie](https://loveswah.com/single-serve-peanut-butter-and-nutella-skillet-cookie/) - I recently obtained a mini skillet pan and became temporarily crazed with churning out single serve cookie recipes! My first attempt was a great success and I have made this Single Serve Choc Chip Skillet Cookie several times since. My next mission was to create a single serving peanut butter cookie recipe. And I had some - [Chocolate Orange Cupcakes for Halloween](https://loveswah.com/chocolate-orange-cupcakes-for-halloween/) - Ok so I know it's still September, but I am getting really excited for Halloween. And I can't believe it's over a month away! Unfortunately we don't celebrate this holiday as much as we should in Australia, but that won't stop me from getting overly festive. I recently discovered that Spotlight has gotten their Halloween range - [White Chocolate and Strawberry Balsamic Tart](https://loveswah.com/white-chocolate-and-strawberry-balsamic-tart/) - Sometimes the most delicious things in life are the simplest, and this recipe is testament to that saying! I wanted to make something easy but impressive for a dinner party recently, and came up with this recipe which has only 6 ingredients. I've been going a bit nuts with strawberries lately as they are in - [Simple Strawberry Cheesecake Mille-Feuille (aka a Napoleon)](https://loveswah.com/simple-strawberry-cheesecake-mille-feuille-napoleon/) - As you may have noticed, I am a big fan of easy to prepare desserts that have big wow factor. And these Strawberry Cheesecake Mille-Feuille's I whipped up are the perfect example! They only have 6 ingredients, but produce an impressive looking dessert that is both light and rich at the same time. Plus you can - [Part 1 - Planning the Ultimate Baby-Friendly Holiday to Japan](https://loveswah.com/planning-the-ultimate-baby-friendly-holiday-to-japan/) - We recently had the most amazing trip to Japan with our 10 month old baby. A lot of people told us we were brave or crazy to embark on such an adventure, but it went surprisingly well! Don't get me wrong, travelling with a baby is definitely a lot more stressful and requires a lot - [Peanut Butter and Banana Pupcakes - Cupcakes for your Dog!](https://loveswah.com/peanut-butter-banana-pupcakes-cupcakes-dog/) - What do you bake for the ultimate puppy birthday party for your pooch? Pupcakes, of course! These tasty treats are safe for your dog to eat and feature 2 canine flavour favourites - peanut butter and banana. I still cannot believe my gorgeous golden retriever is 1 year old! Happy Birthday Maggie! I wanted to - [Easy Christmas Eggnog](https://loveswah.com/easy-christmas-eggnog/) - Nothing says Christmas quite like eggnog, wouldn't you agree? You can't beat the taste and texture of homemade eggnog. And with just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is quick and easy to whip up, giving you more time to celebrate the silly season! Using good quality, fresh free-range eggs is paramount in this recipe. Add - [Gingerbread Cake with Whiskey Salted Caramel](https://loveswah.com/gingerbread-cake-with-whiskey-salted-caramel/) - This cake is truly heaven on a plate and full of festive cheer! From the dense layers of spiced gingerbread cake, to the thick slathering of cream cheese icing and the generous pour of whiskey salted caramel, you don't have to wait for Christmas to make this beauty. I'm going to be making it year round! - [No Bake Iced Vovo Balls](https://loveswah.com/no-bake-iced-vovo-balls/) - An Iced VoVo is an iconic Australian biscuit consisting of a wheat biscuit topped with pink marshmallow on either side of a strip of raspberry jam and sprinkled with coconut. They are very tasty and very Aussie, which makes it the perfect dessert to prepare for Australia Day! After pulverising the Iced VoVo biscuits into smithereens, - [Choc Chip S'more Cookie Sandwich](https://loveswah.com/choc-chip-smore-cookie-sandwich/) - This cookie recipe has to be one of the ooziest, most ridiculous and delicious creations I've ever made. Eating one of these babies will result in sticky fingers and possible early-onset diabetes, but DAMN they taste good. I started off with my all time favourite choc chip cookie recipe. These cookies bake fairly flat and - [An Interview with Zoe Bingley-Pullin and a Fruit Protein Balls Recipe](https://loveswah.com/an-interview-zoe-bingley-pullin-fruit-protein-balls/) - I got the pleasure of meeting the amazing nutritionist, chef and author Zoe Bingley-Pullin at a Vitasoy event recently. You may recognise her as the co-host of the TV show Good Chef Bad Chef, or have read one of her health articles featured in numerous publications. She was incredibly warm, welcoming, and literally GLOWED with health. So I knew I - [Christmas Spiced Hot Chocolate Mix](https://loveswah.com/christmas-spiced-hot-chocolate-mix/) - I LOVE homemade Christmas presents - they're useful, thoughtful and cheap to make! I've got 3 easy peasy recipes you can whip up for your friends and family as gifts, coming to the blog over the next few weeks. My first homemade Christmas gift is for this delicious spiced hot chocolate mix. Pack it in a nice - [Homemade Salted Caramel Sauce](https://loveswah.com/homemade-salted-caramel-sauce/) - Is there anything better in life than caramel sauce? How about an entire jar of homemade salted caramel sauce? This Christmas gift is so easy to make and will make you very popular over the festive season. I guarantee it! This recipe is so simple to make and you can double it easily to make more (but - [Candy Cane White Chocolate Fudge](https://loveswah.com/candy-cane-white-chocolate-fudge/) - Fudge has to be one of my favourite things to make (and eat) as it simply involves stirring a few ingredients in a saucepan and then waiting somewhat patiently for it to set in the fridge. This candy cane white chocolate fudge recipe is easy to make and only has 4 ingredients! This is the - [Easter Egg Meringue Nests with Pastel Whipped Cream](https://loveswah.com/easter-egg-meringue-nests-with-pastel-whipped-cream/) - Easter has to be one of my favourite holidays as it not only encourages eating a lot of chocolate and hot cross buns (my favourite), but we get an extended long weekend off work! I also like using it as an excuse to stuff Easter eggs in a variety of baked goods which you can - [Mini Coconut Cakes with Kaya Jam](https://loveswah.com/mini-coconut-cakes-with-kaya-jam/) - Kaya Jam is a spread made of coconut milk, sugar, eggs and pandan and is hugely popular in Southeast Asia. The kaya has a thick, almost custard like texture and is perfect spread on toast, sandwiched between layers of cake or eaten straight out of the jar with a spoon! Food is a big part of why - [Green Tea Martini for Chinese New Year](https://loveswah.com/green-tea-martini-for-chinese-new-year/) - Gong xi fa cai! (Or Kung hei fat choy! in Cantonese). What does that mean? Happy Chinese New Year! CNY falls on Monday February 8 this year (it changes every year depending on the new moon) and this year it's the Year of the Fire Monkey. In Chinese astrology, each year is associated with a Chinese - [Gluten Free Peanut Butter & White Choc Chip Cookies](https://loveswah.com/gluten-free-peanut-butter-white-choc-chip-cookies/) - These magical peanut butter cookies not only have just 4 ingredients, but they're completely gluten free! Yep that's right, no flour at all. I added white choc chips to mine for some added texture and flavour, but you could add dark chocolate, nuts or whatever your heart desires. These cookies only take 5 minutes to - [Valentine's Day Rap Conversation Cookies](https://loveswah.com/valentines-day-rap-conversation-cookies/) - Valentine's Day is coming up, and what best way to show your love than with some homemade conversation heart cookies filled with rap lyrics? You can make these as dirty or as PG as you want - just have some fun! I did some Googling of romantic rap lyrics (ha!) and selected my favourite 5 - [No Bake Nutella and Oreo Pie](https://loveswah.com/no-bake-nutella-and-oreo-pie/) - I love pretty much anything Nutella related, and these Nutella and Oreo Pies I recently made for some friends were such a hit! It's such an easy recipe to make and is dangerously addictive. I've had a lot of emails from readers saying they love easy recipes that either only have a few ingredients or are - [Easter Cadbury Creme Egg Brownies](https://loveswah.com/easter-cadbury-creme-egg-brownies/) - It isn't really Easter until you've devoured your bodyweight in Cadbury Creme Eggs, am I right?! And since it's the time of year to indulge, why not stuff them inside some decadently dark chocolate brownies? I made these last year for Lucy's blog Bake Play Smile and I loved them so much I'm making them again! These brownies - [Dark Chocolate Guinness Stout Donuts with Baileys Glaze](https://loveswah.com/dark-chocolate-guinness-stout-donuts-with-baileys-glaze/) - It's no secret I am a big fan of St Patrick's Day, not only because of my Irish heritage, but because it's an excuse to experiment in the kitchen with delicious Irish alcohols! I must admit I am not a huge fan of drinking Guinness stout beer, but something magical happens when you add it - [Easy Dark Chocolate Ganache Tarts with Strawberries](https://loveswah.com/easy-dark-chocolate-ganache-tarts-with-strawberries/) - If I need to whip up dessert quickly and I am lacking in time or energy, I often make these tarts. They only have 4 ingredients and you can alter the recipe to suit your tastes or what you have in the kitchen! How about white chocolate ganache tarts with blueberries? Or milk chocolate ganache tarts - [Alfajores AKA Dulce de Leche Cookie Sandwiches](https://loveswah.com/alfajores-aka-dulce-de-leche-cookie-sandwiches/) - Alfajores are soft, delicate cookies hailing from South America that are sandwiched together with dulce de leche. They are the ultimate cookie sandwich! They can be often found served with a dusting of icing sugar, or the edges rolled in shredded coconut. The reason these biscuits are so incredibly light and crumbly is due to the addition of cornstarch/cornflour to the cookie dough. This means the dough - [Flourless Double Chocolate Chip Cookies with Sea Salt](https://loveswah.com/flourless-double-chocolate-chip-cookies-with-sea-salt/) - I recently made these cookies for workmates and I had to go home and bake them again, they were that popular! Why? Well the lack of flour in these cookies not only makes them gluten-free but also creates an incredibly rich and fudgey cookie. They are almost like brownies in biscuit form. And the generous - [Oreo Tiramisu Truffle Chocolates](https://loveswah.com/oreo-tiramisu-truffle-chocolates/) - Chocolate and coffee has to be one of my favourite flavour combinations, which is probably why I love tiramisu so much. I wanted to create an easy, no bake recipe featuring these flavours, partially out of laziness (who wants to turn on the oven when it's hot?) and partially out of curiosity. Oreo recently released their new - [Mini Strawberry Bundt Cakes](https://loveswah.com/mini-strawberry-bundt-cakes/) - It's Mother's Day this weekend and I wanted to whip up something pretty as a picture, and of course delicious, to celebrate all the wonderful Mums in our lives! I know it's a bit of a cliche, but when I think Mother's Day I am inspired by anything feminine, pink and floral - and this - [Banoffee Pavlovas](https://loveswah.com/banoffee-pavlovas/) - What's my most requested dessert, the one that makes grown men moan and women ask to marry me? It's my Banoffee Pie with Salted Pretzel Crust. This dessert results in seriously weird behaviour, but I know why - it's freaking delicious. So I thought it make sense to take the best parts of Banoffee - bananas, cream - [Coconut Thumbprint Cookies with Dulce de Leche](https://loveswah.com/coconut-thumbprint-cookies-with-dulce-de-leche/) - I'm a huge cookie fan, but these coconut thumbprint cookies might just be a contender for my new favourite cookie. I'm talking a buttery shortbread biscuit, covered in crispy toasted coconut and then filled with creamy dulce de leche. Add a final sprinkle of salt and you've got one tasty biscuit! I was recently gifted a - [Coconut Shortbread Cookies with Kaya Jam](https://loveswah.com/coconut-shortbread-cookies-with-kaya-jam/) - If I need to whip up cookies in a flash, I always go back to my simple, 3 ingredient shortbread biscuit recipe. It only requires butter, sugar and flour, you can mix it by hand and it can be out of the oven and in your hot little hands in under 20 minutes! You can roll - [Spiced Persimmon Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting](https://loveswah.com/spiced-persimmon-cupcakes-with-cream-cheese-frosting/) - Autumn has finally arrived in Sydney after weeks of unseasonably warm days, and with the change of season comes a whole host of new fruits and vegetables flooding our markets. Why eat seasonally? It means the produce is at its prime, it's cheaper and it's better for the environment as it was sourced locally (gotta reduce that - [Kimchi Fried Rice](https://loveswah.com/kimchi-fried-rice/) - Brought to you by Nuffnang and SunRice As much as I love spending hours in the kitchen whipping up desserts, when it comes to dinner I am extremely time poor (and lazy) and like to create things that are quick, healthy and tasty. I've been wanting to share more savoury meals on Love Swah, and since this is a - [Oven Baked Red Wine and Chorizo Risotto](https://loveswah.com/oven-baked-red-wine-and-chorizo-risotto/) - Brought to you by Nuffnang and SunRice If you're a Masterchef fan, you'll be well aware of the "death dish" on the show - it's the cursed risotto that seems to send every contestant who cooks it straight home. Risotto is often thought of as a trickier dish that requires an exact balance of flavours and textures, - [Peanut Butter Cup Tarts](https://loveswah.com/peanut-butter-cup-tarts/) - Whilst I don't care much for chocolate bars, I have always had a soft spot for Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. With creamy peanut butter covered in a generous layer of milk chocolate, I knew these simple flavours could be transformed into a tart. Since I love the small serving size of the original cups, I thought making itty - [No Bake Peanut Butter Pretzel Slice](https://loveswah.com/no-bake-peanut-butter-pretzel-slice/) - I am completely peanut butter obsessed, so it should come as no surprise that this Peanut Butter Pretzel Slice has to be one of favourite slice recipes, ever. The combination of creamy, smooth peanut butter studded with salty, crunchy pretzels and covered in a generous layer of dark chocolate makes it a decadent treat. Plus this - [Spinach and Cheese Pie inspired by Ottolenghi](https://loveswah.com/spinach-cheese-pie-inspired-ottolenghi/) - Jerusalem by Yotam Ottolenghi & Sami Tamimi is one of my favourite cookbooks and I am slowly trying to work my way through each and every recipe. I particularly love the huge selection of inventive vegetable dishes, which are full of big Middle Eastern flavours and are always a big hit amongst meat eating and - [Vegan Salted Caramel Tarts](https://loveswah.com/vegan-salted-caramel-tarts/) - Whilst I am known for my liberal use of butter, cream and eggs in my baking, I am always up for a challenge when it comes to catering for dietary restrictions. I've made a few vegan desserts and gluten-free desserts before to cater for various friend's food preferences and enjoyed getting creative in the kitchen. - [Chocolate Spiced Granola](https://loveswah.com/chocolate-spiced-granola/) - Nothing beats homemade granola. The fact you can tailor it to suit your own fussy tastes, make it as sweet as you like and eat it straight out of the jar by the handful without judgement is just some of the reasons I love making my own granola at home. Despite having a well-known sweet - [No Bake S'mores Cups](https://loveswah.com/no-bake-smores-cups/) - Growing up in Australia, we never had S'mores. I would read all about them in American books - a decadent mix of chocolate and marshmallow roasted over a campfire until oozing and sandwiched between two graham crackers. Heaven, right?! I wanted to take the flavours and layers of this American treat and turn them into individual - [Triple Chocolate Cake with Milk Chocolate Buttercream, Dark Chocolate Frosting and White Chocolate Ganache](https://loveswah.com/triple-chocolate-cake-with-milk-chocolate-buttercream-dark-chocolate-frosting-and-white-chocolate-ganache/) - It's no secret that I LOVE chocolate and use any excuse to incorporate it into my baking and/or daily life (I seriously have a block of dark chocolate on my bedside table as we speak). I was in the mood for cake, a chocolate cake to be precise. One with layers of rich and moist - [Chocolate and Macadamia Star Pastry](https://loveswah.com/chocolate-macadamia-star-pastry/) - You've probably seen the Nutella Star Bread making rounds on the internet. I loved the idea, but as always, feel the desire to put my own spin on things. Instead of homemade dough, I used store-bought puff pastry. Not only is this quicker (and lazier) but the layers of crunchy, buttery pastry it creates is - [Buttermilk Brownies with Buttermilk Chocolate Frosting](https://loveswah.com/buttermilk-brownies-buttermilk-chocolate-frosting/) - These are quite possibly my new favourite brownies. Fudgey and rich, dotted with white chocolate and slathered with a generous coating of chocolate frosting, these triple chocolate brownies are decadent with just the right amount of tang from the inclusion of buttermilk. I don't ever really need an excuse to make more brownies, but when - [Blueberry and Lemon Pavlovas](https://loveswah.com/blueberry-lemon-pavlovas/) - Blueberries and lemons were made for each other, and I am always thinking of new ways to combine them when baking. I had some leftover blueberry icing from this divine Blueberry Layer Cake and decided to transform it into a new dish. In my opinion, this light and fruity dessert is the perfect recipe for summer, - [Peppermint Mocha Cupcakes with Choc Mint Ganache and Candy Cane Buttercream](https://loveswah.com/peppermint-mocha-cupcakes-choc-mint-ganache-candy-cane-buttercream/) - Brought to you by Nuffnang and Gloria Jeans I love coffee more than most things in life, but I am quite the purist when it comes to my coffee order - it's always a long black with a dash of cold milk, no ifs and no buts. If the weather is particularly hot, I'll mix - [Chocolate Gingerbread Cake with Cream Cheese Icing and Marshmallow Frosting](https://loveswah.com/chocolate-gingerbread-cake-cream-cheese-icing-marshmallow-frosting/) - Christmas has to be my favourite time of year to bake, and despite the hot weather I still love slaving away in the kitchen to dream up new and delicious holiday-themed treats. Gingerbread is one of the most festive flavours and this layer cake combines layers of cream cheese frosting and is topped with fluffy marshmallow - [Blueberry and Lemon Layer Cake with Blueberry Cream Cheese Frosting](https://loveswah.com/blueberry-and-lemon-layer-cake-with-blueberry-cream-cheese-frosting/) - Berries are cheap and plentiful at the moment which means I often get overly excited in the grocery store and come home with kilos of fruit! I snack on a lot of them and incorporate them into breakfast, but it generally means I have lots of leftover berries to experiment with desserts (what a terrible - [Raspberry and Rosewater Donuts](https://loveswah.com/raspberry-rosewater-donuts/) - It's coming into Summer here in Australia which means berries are plentiful and cheap. I wanted to create a donut that was light and fruity and smelt like summer - so the raspberry and rosewater donut was born! I made these donuts in my mini donut machine which I love using - it's so easy to - [My Version of Momofuku Milk Bar's Compost Cookies](https://loveswah.com/my-version-momofuku-milk-bar-compost-cookies/) - No trip to New York is complete without an indulgent visit to Momofuku Milkbar, the incredible bakery famous for their Crack Pie, Cereal Milk Soft Serve and Compost Cookies. Headed up by pastry queen Christina Tosi, this store is known for pushing the boundaries when it comes to creating imaginative desserts and I returned to Australia with many delicious - [Single Serve Peanut Butter and Oat Choc Chip Cookie](https://loveswah.com/single-serve-peanut-butter-oat-choc-chip-cookie/) - I love cookies almost as much as Cookie Monster, which means if there are any in the house, I will devour them without a second thought. Which is why the single serve cookie is a thing of beauty - you can easily whip up an incredibly delicious cookie and have it baked and ready to - [Chocolate Crackle Cookie Sandwiches with Milo Ice Cream](https://loveswah.com/chocolate-crackle-cookie-sandwiches-with-milo-ice-cream/) - Chocolate Crackles are one of those nostalgic childhood treats that made a regular appearance at Australian birthday parties when I was young. For my overseas readers, a Chocolate Crackle is made of rice bubbles, vegetable shortening, icing sugar, cocoa powder and desiccated coconut and is often served in cupcake papers. I've reimagined them before in the form of a Chocolate - [Fresh Raspberry Cupcakes with Raspberry Buttercream](https://loveswah.com/fresh-raspberry-cupcakes-with-raspberry-buttercream/) - I love using fresh fruit in my baking, not only for the intense fruity flavour, but for the gorgeous colour it naturally tints anything it touches. I had a bunch of leftover raspberries hanging around my kitchen and I knew they had to be transformed into something delicious. I've used them in 3 ways in - [Cadbury Creme Egg Chocolate Mug Cake](https://loveswah.com/cadbury-creme-egg-chocolate-mug-cake/) - What's better than a richly dark chocolate cake that you can whip up in the microwave in a matter of minutes? How about one filled with a melted, gooey Cadbury Creme Egg? This mug cake is the perfect decadent treat to celebrate Easter! The Cadbury Creme Egg has to be one of the most popular - [Fairy Bread Meringues](https://loveswah.com/fairy-bread-meringues/) - I grew up eating Fairy Bread at birthday parties, and to me it's as normal and as Aussie as Vegemite (that weird, salty and yeasty spread we adore). However, not so long ago, the rest of the world found out about Fairy Bread and they lost their minds. You can read about it here. For - [Browned Butter Banana Bread](https://loveswah.com/browned-butter-banana-bread/) - Banana bread has to be one of my favourite breakfast indulgences, but I often balk at the thought of paying $6 at a cafe for a small slice. And considering how easy it is to make, you'd be silly not to try and make your own! My need for baking banana bread generally revolves around - [DIY Filled Easter Eggs](https://loveswah.com/diy-filled-easter-eggs/) - Pretty much as soon as Christmas is over, a wild assortment of Easter Eggs fill the supermarket shelves. From Reese's Peanut Butter Eggs and Oreo Cookies and Cream Eggs to the classic Cadbury Creme Egg, these Easter treats only seem to get more and more popular every year. I love baking with these store-bought Easter - [Salted Caramel Brownie Truffles](https://loveswah.com/salted-caramel-brownie-truffles/) - If you love salted caramel and chocolate as much as me, then I have a big treat for you today! Ben from The Online Grill has come onboard to share with you his recipe for Salted Caramel Brownie Truffles. These balls are absolutely decadent and are quite possibly my new favourite no-bake dessert. Take it away, Ben! - [Hazelnut Caramel Slice](https://loveswah.com/hazelnut-caramel-slice/) - I've been asked a lot lately about what pregnancy cravings I've been getting, and apart from an increased interest in Vegemite on toast and mandarins, I haven't had much to report. Until the other day when I suddenly got debilitating caramel slice cravings (how random!) After trying to satisfy my sweet tooth with an overpriced - [Peanut Butter Chocolate Cupcakes](https://loveswah.com/peanut-butter-chocolate-cupcakes/) - Want to know what I'm obsessing over at the moment? These tasty treats! Take a dark chocolate cupcake, stuff it with a peanut butter filling and top it with swirls of peanut butter frosting for the ultimate sugar hit! These cupcakes were demolished almost instantly at work which I take as a great sign. I - [Mocha Brookies with Salted Caramel Filling](https://loveswah.com/mocha-brookies-salted-caramel-filling/) - Combine a crisp cookie and a fudgey chocolate brownie and what do you get? A brookie! This delicious hybrid dessert is quite possibly my new favourite thing to bake (and eat) right now, and I am hoping they become the new trend. Move over, donuts! One of my favourite flavour combinations has to be coffee and salted caramel, - [Vietnamese Egg Coffee](https://loveswah.com/vietnamese-egg-coffee/) - During a recent trip to Hanoi in the north of Vietnam, I lost count of the amount of people telling me to "try the egg coffee!" Egg... coffee? I know, I had the same hesitation as you probably do right now! But stay with me here. Vietnamese egg coffee is a curious-sounding drink made by whipping egg yolks, - [Roast Pumpkin, Sweet Potato and Carrot Soup](https://loveswah.com/roast-pumpkin-sweet-potato-carrot-soup/) - I've been making a conscious effort lately to be a little more ethical in my day-to-day life. I think if everyone incorporated small changes into their lives it would help negate the devastating effects of climate change (or at least slow it down a bit!) I've been trying to cut down on my meat consumption, refuse - [Dark Chocolate Brookies with Easter Egg Frosting](https://loveswah.com/dark-chocolate-brookies-easter-egg-frosting/) - If you're looking to satisfy both your brownie & cookie cravings, then boy do I have the perfect recipe for you! A brookie is basically the love child of a brownie and a cookie - think rich and fudgey chocolate cookies that literally melt in your mouth. The secret to a good brookie (apart from - [Malted Chocolate Mug Cake with M&M Easter Eggs](https://loveswah.com/malted-chocolate-mug-cake-mm-easter-eggs/) - Satisfy your cake craving in minutes, with a fun Easter spin on a delicious Malted Chocolate Mug cake whipped up in the microwave! Simply serve with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream for a perfect holiday dessert. And if you're after another Easter mug cake, look no further than my Cadbury Creme Egg Mug - [Golden Milk Chia Pudding](https://loveswah.com/golden-milk-chia-pudding/) - For the ultimate breakfast, look no further than my Golden Milk Chia Puddings! Inspired by the popular Turmeric Latte, these babies are incredibly easy to whip up and make a quick and tasty start to the day. The hero ingredient has to be turmeric, currently a popular superfood popping up in cafes, restaurants and supermarkets around - [Make Fresh Juice and Nut Milks at Home with the Optimum 700 Cold Press Juicer](https://loveswah.com/make-fresh-juice-and-nut-milks-at-home-with-the-optimum-700-cold-press-juicer/) - I've been on the hunt for a cold press juicer for a while, and was happy to invest in a good quality cold press juice machine. After a lot of research I settled on the Optimum 700 Advanced Cold Press Juicer and the kind folks at Froothie sent me one to review. In addition to being able to - [Salted Caramel Doughnuts with Toffee Crunch](https://loveswah.com/salted-caramel-doughnuts-with-toffee-crunch/) - Whether you call them doughnuts or donuts, my love for these oven baked treats is well known! Today on the blog I have an exceptionally decadent recipe for you featuring salted caramel doughnuts with a delightful toffee crunch topping. These babies are sweet and salty, creamy and crunchy, and basically the best way to use up any - [Spiced Brown Sugar Pavlova with Whipped Cream Cheese, Gingerbread and Salted Caramel](https://loveswah.com/spiced-brown-sugar-pavlova-whipped-cream-cheese-gingerbread-salted-caramel/) - It's no secret that I am a huge fan of Christmas baking. Each year it's usually a debate between whether I bake something gingerbread related or go with the classic Aussie pavlova. This year I decided to combine the best parts of both these festive desserts and make a gingerbread pavlova! I hope you love this - [5 Ingredient Peanut Butter Granola](https://loveswah.com/5-ingredient-peanut-butter-granola/) - I am so obsessed with this easy Peanut Butter Granola that I make it every week. It's so quick to prepare and bake and the best part is it requires only 5 ingredients! I eat it for breakfast with goat yoghurt and fruit, or pop it into a Tupperware container for a snack on the - [Our Babymoon on Hamilton Island](https://loveswah.com/our-babymoon-on-hamilton-island/) - We recently returned from a relaxing and wonderful babymoon at Hamilton Island which was a great way to celebrate/commiserate (haha) our last holiday as just the two of us. Whilst I originally had my heart set on a bigger trip overseas, a small week away was just what the doctor ordered. We spent 5 nights/6 - [10 Spooky Halloween Dessert Recipes](https://loveswah.com/10-spooky-halloween-dessert-recipes/) - Halloween has to be one of my favourite holidays to bake for - it's an excuse to get a bit silly with fake blood and dream up gruesome and delicious desserts. Despite that fact we don't celebrate Halloween that much here in Australia, I do enjoy creating a new spooky creation every year. So I've - [10 Babymoon Destination Ideas That Are Zika Free!](https://loveswah.com/10-babymoon-destination-ideas-that-are-zika-free/) - A babymoon is a great way for you and your partner to have a last hurrah together before your bundle of joy arrives. A lot of expectant parents see this holiday as a chance to spend some quality one-on-one time with each other and most importantly - to relax! There are a few factors to - [So You're Pregnant - Now What?!](https://loveswah.com/so-youre-pregnant-now-what/) - Today I hit the 20 week mark and I'm officially halfway through my pregnancy! I honestly don't know where the time has gone. The good news is I am well and truly into my second trimester and feeling much better than my last baby blog update. I've also learnt a lot over the past few - [Hey baby!](https://loveswah.com/hey-baby/) - I've got some wonderful news to share today, dear readers. We're having a baby! After keeping this a big secret (even from our nearest and dearest) for months, it's so nice to be able to shout it from the rooftops. To be honest, it still doesn't seem to be real that there is a baby - [48 Hours in Prague](https://loveswah.com/48-hours-prague/) - When you simply have to get away from the stress and the everyday rush, a weekend trip is one of the best ways to recharge your batteries. But where to go, and what to do when you’ve only got 48 hours to experience something new and thrilling? Well, if you’re looking to have a fun, - [Travel Tips for Uluru - AKA the Things I Wish I Knew Before I Went!](https://loveswah.com/travel-tips-uluru-aka-things-wish-knew-went/) - I recently came back from an amazing trip to Uluru and pretty much haven't stopped talking about it. In between raving about watching the sun rise over Uluru as a "spiritual experience" and proclaiming every Australian school student should be made to make the pilgrimage to the Red Centre, I've also been firing off advice - [The Ultimate Guide to Uluru, Australia](https://loveswah.com/ultimate-guide-uluru-australia/) - Despite having visited over 40 countries (and counting!) there are many places around Australia I still haven't visited yet. You could say I'm a bad domestic tourist. But thanks to Jetstar I recently got to tick The Great Barrier Reef off my bucket list, and now I was finally going to head to the red - [Where to Find the Best Desserts in Barcelona](https://loveswah.com/find-best-desserts-barcelona/) - If you have a sweet tooth and you love traveling, then you should definitely visit Barcelona at least once in your lifetime. There are many things to do and see in this amazing city, but most importantly, there are many delicious sweets to taste. So, if dessert is your favourite part of the meal, here’s - [The Ultimate Guide to Ubud, Bali](https://loveswah.com/ultimate-guide-ubud-bali/) - Ubud is set amongst rice paddies in the middle of Bali and is known for being the cultural hub of the island. Surrounded by jungle and lush rainforest, the area is filled with temples, shrines and art galleries and is becoming the hot spot for yogis, artists and writers wanted to escape the hustle and - [The Ultimate Foodie's Guide to Canggu, Bali](https://loveswah.com/the-ultimate-foodies-guide-to-canggu-bali/) - Canggu is an emerging area that is filled with an amazing array of trendy cafes, bars and restaurants. Once a sleepy coastal town dotted with rice paddies, it is now becoming the hipster destination of choice, for very good reasons! I chose to say in Canggu because I didn’t want to stay in the notorious party - [My Review of Priority Pass - Travelling in Style Around the World!](https://loveswah.com/review-priority-pass-travelling-style-around-world/) - I am fortunate enough to travel a lot for work and pleasure, but the downside to this seemingly glamorous gig is waiting around in airports. It’s boring, there’s often little to no WIFI, the food options are limited and you’re stuck with hundreds of fellow humans who also don’t want to be there. So what - [My Stay at Villa Kami in Canggu with Villa-Bali.com](https://loveswah.com/stay-villa-kami-canggu-villa-bali-com/) - I am perhaps one of only a handful of Australians who have never been to Bali. I somehow skipped this rite of passage when I was graduating high school and favoured trips to other parts of Asia, America and Europe. But my partner and I were craving a true break - we wanted to relax, - [Hanoi Travel Guide Part 2: What to Eat and Where](https://loveswah.com/hanoi-travel-guide-part-2-eating/) - If you travel to eat, Hanoi has to be high up on your bucket list. This bustling city located in the North of Vietnam is home to some of the tastiest street food I've ever had the pleasure of eating. Slurping noodles whilst perched on a plastic stool by the side of the road is - [Discovering the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest in Far North Queensland](https://loveswah.com/discovering-great-barrier-reef-daintree-rainforest-far-north-queensland/) - I have been trying to make more of an effort to discover my own country, and have been booking in domestic trips around Australia whenever I have the chance. Snorkelling The Great Barrier Reef has always been high on my bucket list, and I recently got the opportunity to fly with Jetstar to Cairns and - [8 Reasons Why You Must Visit Peru in 2018](https://loveswah.com/8-reasons-must-visit-peru-2018/) - I’ve been fortunate enough to visit 40 countries on my travels, however I sometimes feel I’ve barely scratched the surface of this amazing world! With numerous adventures across Europe, Asia, the South Pacific and Asia, I am yet to step foot in South America, and the continent is calling my name. Peru has to be - [The Ultimate Travel Guide to Port Douglas](https://loveswah.com/the-ultimate-travel-guide-to-port-douglas/) - Port Douglas is a beach town located in Far North Queensland and is an excellent place to base yourself to explore the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, which are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Whether you want to swim along gorgeous beaches and hike through the hinterlands or simply relax by your resort pool - [Hanoi Travel Guide Part 1: Where to Stay and What to Do](https://loveswah.com/hanoi-vietnam-travel-guide-part-1-sightseeing/) - Hanoi, located in the North of Vietnam, is a bustling city filled with a unique blend of French and Asian culture. Hanoi is a bit of an assault on the senses at first, it's loud and smelly and never seems to sleep. But the incredible architecture, numerous shopping options and some of the best street food - [Bespoke Letterpress and The Press Shop, Bowral](https://loveswah.com/bespoke-letterpress-press-shop-bowral/) - Bespoke Letterpress and The Press Shop is a dual-purpose space located in Bowral, just 90 minutes’ drive from Sydney. The Southern Highlands is an area famous for its rolling hills, spacious farmland and numerous wineries. It's always been an excellent destination for a relaxing weekend away, and I've never really thought of this small town as "cool". - [Travel Guide: Taipei, Taiwan](https://loveswah.com/travel-guide-taipei-taiwan/) - Taiwan is often described as a blend of Chinese and Japanese culture, which fascinated me as I have visited (and loved) both those countries. Known for its foodie culture (Taiwan is filled with bustling night markets lined with street food vendors), modern cities and stunning landscapes, I was thrilled to be able to discover this - [Travel Guide: Palm Springs](https://loveswah.com/travel-guide-palm-springs/) - I recently came back from an amazing trip around California, and the highlight for me had to be Palm Springs. I fell head over heels for this unique destination filled with amazingly cool hotels, mid-century modern architecture and great food and shopping. It's also well positioned for fun day trips to Joshua Tree National Park and Salvation - [Movie Review - The Big Sick](https://loveswah.com/movie-review-big-sick/) - I’m a huge movie buff - in fact my first degree majored in Film & Television - and I try and get to the cinema as much as possible. Whether it be a drama, action or sci-fi flick, I am usually game. I must admit I am not a huge rom-com fan, but I do - [Want to work from anywhere? Here are the best co-working spaces around the globe!](https://loveswah.com/want-to-work-from-anywhere-the-best-co-working-spaces-around-the-globe/) - Fancy sending out invoices from a beachside location or writing your latest article whilst surrounded by indoor plants and new friends? As workplaces become more flexible and the solopreneur is on the rise, co-working spaces are rapidly popping up around the globe. These days co-working offices are more than just renting desk space - they also provide opportunities to - [10 Colourful Unicorn Desserts that are Magical AF](https://loveswah.com/10-colourful-unicorn-desserts/) - I love a good trend, and the unicorn craze that's currently sweeping the internet is pleasing me to no end! Think bright pastel colours, sprinkles, edible glitter and a gold horn thrown in and you've got a magical dessert that's almost too good to eat. Almost. Thanks to some creative minds, there is pretty much - [How to Budget for a Trip - 5 Simple Ways to Reach Your Saving Goals!](https://loveswah.com/budget-trip-5-simple-ways-reach-saving-goals/) - As you may have noticed, I love to travel and fortunately get to go away quite a bit. In fact I am currently writing this article on the plane to Los Angeles! While some of my trips are for work and therefore sponsored by a company, a huge chunk of my travel is self-funded. How - [How to Protect Your Tummy While Travelling](https://loveswah.com/protect-tummy-travelling/) - It’s probably happened to you many times – you’ve planned a long-anticipated holiday, set out on your journey with a wide smile on your face, and then a couple of days into your trip, stomach problems killed the party. People commonly get sick during travel, due to the fact that they are exposed to a - [Travel Guide: The Southern Highlands, NSW](https://loveswah.com/travel-guide-southern-highlands-nsw/) - The Southern Highlands is a region in NSW comprising of many villages filled with award-winning wineries, amazing food, stunning landscapes and colonial charm. It's the perfect destination to escape the big smoke for a weekend - there are national parks filled with spectacular waterfalls and gardens, rolling green hills dotted with vineyards and fresh country air. Whilst Bowral is - [Travel Guide: Bowral, NSW](https://loveswah.com/travel-guide-bowral-nsw/) - For the perfect country escape, look no further than Bowral. Located just 90 minutes’ drive from Sydney and nestled in the Southern Highlands, this charming town offers great food, wine and shopping options, making it the ultimate weekend away! First up here's a video I made from our trip to submit to the #ILoveNSW campaign. Keep reading - [Biota Dining, Bowral](https://loveswah.com/biota-dining-bowral/) - To experience fine dining with a country twist, look no further than Biota Dining, Bowral. Located just over 90 minutes drive from Sydney, this gorgeous restaurant has been serving up creative Modern Australian food for years with an emphasis on locally sourced food (it gets so local, a lot of their produce is picked fresh - [6 Fancy Things to Do in Sydney](https://loveswah.com/6-fancy-things-sydney/) - If your perfect holiday involves fast cars, top shelf wines, five-star accommodation and luxury yachts, then this list was made for you. Here are six fancy things you can do if your adventures take you down to Sydney and you happen to have some extra cash to splurge. Take a look! Rent a yacht at - [Travel Guide: Where to Eat and Drink in Tamworth](https://loveswah.com/where-to-eat-drink-tamworth/) - Tamworth is a city situated in northeast New South Wales, famous for its annual Country Music Festival. But Tamworth is much more than just the heart of Australian country music, and is quickly becoming an emerging food and wine destination. To experience what Tamworth has to offer for yourself, they hold the Taste Tamworth festival every year, and it's - [Forming Healthy Habits and Sticking with Them](https://loveswah.com/forming-healthy-habits-sticking/) - It’s that time of the year when everyone’s making New Year’s resolutions lists and promising themselves they’ll going to do better in the year to come. Unfortunately, most of the resolutions are forgotten once the holiday euphoria stops, but forming healthy habits is important. That’s why you’ll need a system on how to develop and, - [15 Delicious Easter Dessert Recipes](https://loveswah.com/15-delicious-easter-dessert-recipes/) - Chocolate is one of my favourite foods, so it makes sense that Easter is one of my favourite holidays, right? I'm honestly not sure how it's already mid-March (2017 is rushing by at an alarming rate) but I realised I needed to start working on some new Easter recipes for you guys, pronto! In the - [Make Your Own Fizzy Iced Green Tea and Sparkling Espresso Cocktail with the SodaStream](https://loveswah.com/make-fizzy-iced-green-tea-sparkling-espresso-cocktail-sodastream/) - Brought to you by Nuffnang and SodaStream How do you turn a humble glass of water into a refreshing and healthy drink or a fun and energising cocktail? With a SodaStream of course! I recently got to try out the new SodaStream Power, and within seconds I transformed a bottle of chilled tap water into - [Goonoo Goonoo Station, Tamworth](https://loveswah.com/goonoo-goonoo-station-tamworth/) - Goonoo Goonoo (pronounced gun-a-gun-oo) is the ultimate destination to stay, eat and relax. Located 25km south of Tamworth and set across 4000ha of land, this former sheep station had fallen into disrepair since its glory days of the 1830s. Simon and Sarah Haggarty fell in love with Goonoo Goonoo Station after it was purchased by Simon’s - [First-timer to Australia? Here is Your Basic Info](https://loveswah.com/first-timer-australia-basic-info/) - Traveling to the land Down Under for the first time is like going away to an entirely different planet. Starting from the country’s unique geographic position, going across the “invert” seasons and arriving all the way to the most amazing nature, Australia is a whole new world to explore. All the things that make it - [How to Survive Plane Food](https://loveswah.com/survive-plane-food/) - As a self-professed foodie, the one thing I hate about travelling is plane food. Sure, I know it's not popular with most people, but I honestly hate it so much I sometimes would rather starve! Since I travel a lot for work and live in Australia (ie far away from everything), this means I spend quite - [Travel Guide: Where to Eat in Orange, NSW](https://loveswah.com/travel-guide-where-to-eat-in-orange-nsw/) - Orange's burgeoning food and wine scene makes this town the perfect weekend away for food buffs. From trendy cafes serving up innovative dishes using local produce to divine bakeries and fine dining restaurants, Orange has something to suit everyone's tastebuds and budget. If you're a vino fan, make sure you check out my guide to the best vineyards - [10 Things in my Blogging Tool Kit I Can't Live Without](https://loveswah.com/10-things-blogging-tool-kit-cant-live-without/) - I get a lot of enquiries about what tools I have in my blogging kit - from cameras and lens, to props and software, and thought I'd round up my most used and loved items I can't live/blog without! I've listed the 2 different cameras I use for food and travel photography as well as my favourites lens, and - [Glamping on Cockatoo Island](https://loveswah.com/glamping-cockatoo-island/) - I must admit I've never been much of a camper. The thought of sleeping on the floor of a sweaty tent, going without a shower for days on end and using "basic" toilet facilities just didn't appeal to me. Why put myself through so much on holidays when I could just book into a nice - [20 Festive Christmas Desserts](https://loveswah.com/20-festive-christmas-desserts/) - It's no secret that I LOVE any type of themed baking for the holidays - Easter and Halloween are favourites, but nothing beats creating festive Christmas-themed desserts for friends and family. It's hard to go past classic Christmas flavours such as gingerbread and candy cane, which feature several times in my round up of the best Christmas desserts. So if - [How to Host an Easy Holiday Party](https://loveswah.com/host-easy-holiday-party/) - Today on the blog I have the hostess with the mostess Pearl from Pretty Mayhem sharing with us her easy holiday party tips, just in time for Christmas! And better yet, she is giving away one of her special limited edition White and Gold holiday boxes to a lucky reader worth $65 - read on to find out - [5 of the Best Indoor Plants For Serial Plant Killers](https://loveswah.com/5-best-indoor-plants-serial-plant-killers/) - I love plants so much, but unfortunately I am a bad plant mother and they wilt on me without fail. From herbs to fruits and flowers, pretty much everything I try to grow on my balcony seems to die an unfortunate early death. But recently I've had luck with indoor plants - they're more resilient and require only a - [Best European Islands to Visit](https://loveswah.com/best-european-islands-visit/) - When people daydream about holidays, the instinctive image that comes to mind is an island – a tiny speck in the middle of nowhere, surrounded by turquoise waters, waves lapping gently at the sand, and palm fronds swaying in the breeze. The islands in Europe are especially dreamy – not only are they perfect for - [24 Hours in Phuket - Checking out Dream Hotel Phuket, Dream Beach Club and Promthep Cape!](https://loveswah.com/24-hours-phuket-checking-dream-hotel-phuket-dream-beach-club-promthep-cape/) - I recently did a whirlwind trip of Phuket - 24 hours to be precise - but you will be surprised how much you can fit in! From lunching at the beach club to lazing by the hotel pool, along with spa treatments and a sunset dinner, I'll show you how to fit in as much fun - [Hotel Review: JW Marriott, Bangkok](https://loveswah.com/hotel-review-jw-marriott-bangkok/) - I recently got to visit Thailand along with several other Nuffnang bloggers from around the world including Singapore, the UK, China, Taiwan and of course Australia. We were in town as a guest of TCEB - the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau, to discover what Bangkok and its surrounding areas had on offer for business - [18 Delicious Strawberry Dessert Recipes](https://loveswah.com/18-delicious-strawberry-dessert-recipes/) - Strawberries are in season in Australia at the moment, and an oversupply has meant that they are being sold for insanely cheap prices at supermarkets around the country. I got a bit excited and bought 5 punnets at once, but fortunately I have rounded up a big list of delicious and simply strawberry dessert recipes - [The Best Vineyards in Orange, NSW and the 2016 Orange Wine Festival](https://loveswah.com/the-best-vineyards-in-orange-and-the-2016-orange-wine-festival/) - Is there anything better than fresh country air, warm hospitality and award-winning wine? Throw in some delicious locally-sourced food and a few friends and you've got the perfect recipe for a great weekend away. I was lucky enough to visit Orange with several food and travel writers to preview the Orange Wine Festival which involved drinking - [The Stylish Traveller - Travel accessories to make your trip a little more fabulous](https://loveswah.com/stylish-traveller-travel-accessories-make-trip-little-fabulous/) - Travelling overseas doesn't necessarily mean zip-off cargo pants and money belts. Long gone are the days of daggy travel attire and brands are releasing new and affordable chic travel accessories at a rapid pace. From stylish headphones and luggage tags to useful wash bags and charging cords, I've scoured the internet for my favourite travel accessories - [Weekends Away: Canberra](https://loveswah.com/weekends-away-canberra/) - I was recently invited by Rachel (aka CreamyMiddles) to accompany her on an all expenses paid weekend away in Canberra - yes please! This is all part of a great marketing concept known as The Human Brochure - they invited 500 humans to come and experience Canberra first hand and then spread the word online (using the hashtag - [Joe's Bar at East Hotel, Canberra](https://loveswah.com/joes-bar-at-east-hotel-canberra/) - Joe's Bar is a small Italian bar and restaurant located in the lobby of East Hotel. It has only been open under a year but has already built quite the reputation amongst the burgeoning Canberra food scene. Joe’s Bar is the brainchild of siblings Dan and Dion Bisa and named after their dad Joe, a first-generation Italian-Australian. The Bisa family - [13 Easy and Tasty No Bake Desserts](https://loveswah.com/13-easy-and-tasty-no-bake-desserts/) - It's no secret I'm a huge fan of no bake recipes - not only are they easy to whip up, you don't even have to turn the oven on (which is perfect on those swelteringly hot summer days). From slices to cheesecakes and mousses to cookies, there are so many desserts you can create with - [Hotel Review: East Hotel, Canberra](https://loveswah.com/hotel-review-east-hotel-canberra/) - East Hotel is a contemporary 4.5 star apartment hotel located in Kingston, Canberra which combines elegant design and quirky art inside a modern concrete and glass building. With spacious studios and apartments decked out in 1960s retro furniture, a fully equipped kitchen, free Wi-Fi and Nespresso machines ensuring your room is like a home away - [French Eating Guide 101](https://loveswah.com/french-eating-guide-101/) - If you are interested in French culture, enjoying and exploring their cuisine should be your top priority. What is so special about it is the fact that they eat well and they perform this activity for a prolonged period of time. They enjoy relaxed lunches lasting for nearly three hours and sitting for days on - [Dreaming of Starting Your Own Business? Check out the new Collective Entrepreneurship program by Lisa Messenger from Collective Hub](https://loveswah.com/dreaming-of-starting-your-own-business-check-out-the-new-collective-entrepreneurship-program-by-lisa-messenger-from-collective-hub/) - I am sure we all, at some point in our lives, fantasised about starting our own business. The lure of being your own boss, setting your own hours and working on something you feel passionate about is tempting. Perhaps this is more than a fantasy and you have a idea (or 5, like me) rattling around in - [Travel Guide: Where to Eat and Drink in Newcastle](https://loveswah.com/travel-guide-where-to-eat-and-drink-in-newcastle/) - Something pretty incredible is happening to Newcastle right now. Vacant shops are being filled with boutique coffee houses and organic cafes, small bars are opening up and laneways are being decorated with colourful street art. I must admit Newcastle hadn't really been on my radar as a weekend away destination, but since I've come back I - [How to Make Money from Your Blog](https://loveswah.com/how-to-make-money-from-your-blog/) - I often get asked how I make an income from my blog, and there is no one answer. I generally explain that "my fingers are in a lot of pies" which is a vaguely funny pun that ties in nicely with my love of dessert. There are many different revenue streams available to bloggers these days, - [Mudgee Travel Guide Part 3: Shopping and Sightseeing](https://loveswah.com/mudgee-travel-guide-part-3-shopping-sightseeing/) - Welcome to part 3 of my guide to Mudgee! So far I've covered all the delightful eating and drinking opportunities this town has to offer, and now we finish with my guide to shopping and sightseeing in Mudgee, rounding up the perfect weekend away. After a hearty breakfast, we meet Olivia Morgan from @morganandscout for a shopping tour of Mudgee. Mudgee's - [The Best Tea Flavoured Desserts](https://loveswah.com/the-best-tea-flavoured-desserts/) - I love drinking tea and go through at least 5 cups a day minimum. The variety of flavours available is exceptional, and I love the gentle lift tea gives you as opposed to the rather intense jolt from coffee (although don't get me wrong, I live for my daily 11am coffee). From Earl Grey to - [We Will Rock You: A Review of the Musical at Sydney Lyric Theatre](https://loveswah.com/we-will-rock-you-a-review-of-the-musical-at-sydney-lyric-theatre/) - Brought to you by Nuffnang and We Will Rock You Sometimes a night of drama, wine and a bit of singing is just what you need! We Will Rock You combines the wit of Ben Elton with Queen’s legendary music to produce a cheeky, fun and hilarious performance. The show has been a huge hit show since it debuted - [Where to Eat in Siem Reap, Cambodia](https://loveswah.com/where-to-eat-siem-reap-cambodia/) - Siem Reap is located in northwestern Cambodia and is the gateway to the ruins of Angkor - a vast complex of intricate stone temples. Whilst the main reason tourists visit Siem Reap is for the temples, it's worth setting aside some time to explore Siem Reap itself. This small town is now booming with a huge array of hotels, - [How to Start a Self-Hosted Blog on Wordpress](https://loveswah.com/how-to-start-a-self-hosted-blog-on-wordpress/) - I get tonnes of emails asking me for my blogging tips and how to start a blog. I have been blogging at Love Swah for nearly 6 years and was blogging on Blogspot and Live Journal before that. In addition to having blogged for years, I am also a web designer which made setting up my - [Weekends Away: A Luxurious Stay at Sir Stamford Circular Quay with Samsonite](https://loveswah.com/weekends-away-luxurious-stay-at-sir-stamford-circular-quay-with-samsonite/) - Sometimes you want to get away from it all without leaving your city. As much as I love to travel, sometimes the airport hassle, inevitable delays and long drives end up making you more tired than when you started! So what's my never-fail way to get away and relax? A staycation in your own city. - [The Figure 8 Pools - How to Find this Natural Landmark Safely](https://loveswah.com/the-figure-8-pools-how-to-find-this-natural-landmark-safely/) - The Figure Eight Pools are a group of naturally formed rockpools located in Sydney’s Royal National Park and are a natural phenomenon you really need to experience for yourself. Unfortunately, these pools have been in the news a lot lately for all the wrong reasons. In addition to this being a difficult walk that a lot of people - [My Review of the Epson SureColor SC-P405 Printer](https://loveswah.com/my-review-of-the-epson-surecolor-sc-p405-printer/) - Brought to you by Nuffnang and Epson I'm a blogger, small business owner and graphic designer who works from home. This sounds like the dream (who doesn't love working in pyjamas?!) but it means my technical capabilities are limited. If I ever want to print anything larger than A4 or of photo quality, I need to outsource - [Deconstructed Food Styling](https://loveswah.com/deconstructed-food-styling/) - I LOVE deconstructed food styling. Food can become minimalist art, patterns or even typography. I first talked about it here nearly 3 years ago when sharing the gorgeous photography from the IKEA baking book. This technique has been echoed repeatedly lately and these are some of my favourite interpretations. Florent Tanet Maren Caruso Dennis Adelmann and - [My Favourite Free Fonts](https://loveswah.com/my-favourite-free-fonts/) - As a graphic designer I spend a LOT of time scouring the internet for the "perfect font" for a particular project. I have been stumbling upon quite a few amazing free fonts lately, and thought I'd share my favourites with you! 1. Sanchez 2. Ostrich Sans 3. Josefin Slab 4. Raleway 5. Wisdom Script 6. - [The Best Free Font Sites for Bloggers](https://loveswah.com/the-best-free-font-sites-for-bloggers/) - As a graphic designer, I spend a lot of time looking for new fonts to use on projects for both clients and my own blog. Whilst I purchase a lot of fonts for my professional work, I am always on the look out for free fonts for small personal projects. A lot of fellow bloggers contact - [Photoshop Tutorial: How to save dark restaurant photos](https://loveswah.com/photoshop-tutorial-how-to-save-dark-restaurant-photos/) - Dark "mood" lighting in restaurants is the enemy of every food blogger out there. I've seen bloggers request to be moved tables just so they can take better photos of their food! Whilst I don't do many restaurant reviews anymore, I still take a lot of food photos whilst on travel famils and end up - [Working from home - how to stay productive and sane](https://loveswah.com/working-from-home-how-to-stay-productive-and-sane/) - I've been working from home part-time for 6 months now and am slowly but surely picking up techniques to keep me focused, motivated and not go crazy. Despite the initial allurement of working from home it's not all sunshine and roses. Sometimes you never switch off from work mode. Sometimes you get lonely. Or sometimes - [10 benefits of networking for solo-entrepreneurs](https://loveswah.com/10-benefits-of-networking-for-solo-entrepreneurs/) - Hello from Eat Pray Workout! Sarah’s told me that many of you own your own business or blog. Whilst an entrepreneur is usually a very motivated person driven by passion or the satisfaction that comes with reaching goals, it doesn’t mean that we’re without our struggles. It can be lonely and stressful to rely on - [What to pack for a conference](https://loveswah.com/what-to-pack-for-a-conference/) - I'm off to the Problogger conference on the Gold Coast tomorrow morning, and despite my best intentions, have left packing to the very last minute (as usual). I've been to a fair few conferences now and am slowly getting the hang of this whole organisation and packing thing. My very first conference resulted in sore - [5 Reasons Why You Must Go To Dark Mofo 2016!](https://loveswah.com/5-reasons-why-you-must-go-to-dark-mofo-2016/) - I had the privilege of attending my first Dark Mofo event in Tasmania in 2015 and it was truly one of the most unique and fun experiences of my life. The lineup for Dark Mofo 2016 has just been released and it's possibly even more amazing (can you believe?!) Before I present my case on - [The Best Single Serve Dessert Recipes](https://loveswah.com/the-best-single-serve-dessert-recipes/) - It's no secret I'm a huge fan of single serve recipes - firstly because they're quick and easy to make, and secondly because I have an extreme lack of self control and always end up demolishing an entire tray of cookies if I'm not careful! It looks like my readers are also a big fan of - [Where To Find Styled Stock Photography](https://loveswah.com/where-to-find-styled-stock-photography/) - Stock photography used to be a dirty word when I was starting out as a graphic designer, but lately the creation of feminine, beautifully shot and curated stock collections has been filling the internet and it's all kinds of wonderful. Styled stock photography has taken off in a big way, and it's an easy and - [Cats the Musical - My first premiere and red carpet walk!](https://loveswah.com/cats-the-musical-my-first-premiere-and-red-carpet-walk/) - Brought to you by Nuffnang and Cats the Musical I love musicals, I just never seem to end up going to them. I've been to New York and London half a dozen times, arguably the respective homes of musicals, and yet never made it to a single show. But the good news is, I live in - [Hotel Review: Marco Polo Hong Kong Hotel](https://loveswah.com/hotel-review-marco-polo-hong-kong-hotel/) - Hong Kong is one of my favourite cities in Asia to visit and I've been lucky enough to go there 4 times (and counting)! I love the blend of Eastern and Western culture, architecture, shopping and food. Did I mention the food? Hong Kong is truly a food lover's paradise. The Hotel I stayed at the Marco - [Creative Fridays: An Interview with Erin Made This](https://loveswah.com/creative-fridays-an-interview-with-erin-made-this/) - I've been lusting over Erin's gorgeous cakes and photography styling over at erinmadethis.com for a while now, and I was so thrilled when she agreed to let me interview her. Welcome, Erin! Hello! Who are you and what do you do? Hi! My name is Erin. I do lots of things, but mostly I teach high school - [Mudgee Travel Guide Part 2: Drinking](https://loveswah.com/mudgee-travel-guide-part-2-drinking/) - The Mudgee Region is home to some of Australia's finest vineyards, but there is more to this area than just wine. With a huge range of local beers and distilled spirits available for tasting and purchasing as well, Mudgee has something for every taste! Vineyards Robert Stein Winery & Vineyard - Pipeclay Lane, Mudgee Located just - [A Weaving Class with Maryanne Moodie at Etsy](https://loveswah.com/a-weaving-class-with-maryanne-moodie-at-etsy/) - I am lucky enough to work in a field where I get to be creative everyday. But after a while, designing graphics solely on the computer gets a bit boring and I crave using my hands and applying my creativity to a different medium. So when Etsy HQ invited me to attend a an exclusive - [Travel Guide: Kaohsiung and Taitung, Taiwan](https://loveswah.com/travel-guide-kaohsiung-and-taitung-taiwan/) - My first post on Taiwan focused on Taipei, and was filled with sightseeing, big buildings and quirky experiences (think the toilet-themed cafe and indoor shrimp fishing). While Kaohsiung and Taitung, 2 cities located down South may lack the big tourist drawcards of bustling Taipei, they are known for some unique sightseeing and a weird and - [Mudgee Travel Guide Part 1: Eating](https://loveswah.com/mudgee-travel-guide-part-1-eating/) - Mudgee is a charming historic town located in the central west of New South Wales, and is around a 3.5 hours drive from Sydney. Well known for its gorgeous architecture, abundance of vineyards and emerging foodie scene, it's the perfect destination for a weekend away. I timed my visit perfectly with the arrival of the - [Cristina Re's New High Tea Collection “To Paris with Love”](https://loveswah.com/cristina-re-new-high-tea-collection-to-paris-with-love/) - I've been a huge fan of Cristina Re's stationery since high school. I used to love going into Spotlight to browse and purchase her range of paper, stickers and accessories in her signature feminine, French influenced design. When I was recently invited to meet her at Sofitel for the launch of her new high tea collection, I couldn't wait! - [Discovering Emirati Culture and Cuisine in Dubai](https://loveswah.com/discovering-emirati-culture-and-cusine-in-dubai/) - Dubai is a melting pot of different nationalities and religions and is a great place to learn more about Arabic and Emirati cultures. We started the day with a traditional Emirati breakfast at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. Their motto is "Open Doors. Open Minds" and it was a brilliant opportunity to ask our Emirati host - [A Bird's Eye View of Dubai](https://loveswah.com/a-birds-eye-view-of-dubai/) - An inspiring blend of sophisticated luxury, authentic Indian heritage and contemporary style - Taj Dubai is a world-class destination. Experience great Indian hospitality at the shores of modern Arabia. What's the best way to see Dubai? From the sky of course! To fully appreciate the grandeur, landscape, contrasting colours and the sheer scale of construction continually - [7 Healthy Drink Twist Ideas with Cranberry Juice](https://loveswah.com/7-healthy-drink-twist-ideas-with-cranberry-juice/) - Brought to you by Nuffnang and Ocean Spray As someone who runs a blog that focuses on desserts, it may come as a surprise to you that I try and avoid excess sugar in every other part of my life. I'm sure I meet more than my yearly sugar quota when recipe-testing, so I try and show - [The Ultimate Foodie Stopover in Dubai](https://loveswah.com/the-ultimate-foodie-stopover-in-dubai/) - Do you have limited time in Dubai but want to enjoy all the gastronomical delights this city has to offer? Well look no further, I have put together the ultimate eating day in Dubai which will satisfy a range of tastes and budgets. So to make the most of your stopover, put on your stretchy - [An Arabian Adventure in the Desert](https://loveswah.com/an-arabian-adventure-in-the-desert/) - I've always thought of the desert as an arid and uninhabitable place that, to be frank, seemed not particularly pleasant to visit. However my perceptions of it were blown away when I encountered the most incredible desert experience with Arabian Adventures. I was surprised with how breathtakingly beautiful and peaceful the desert was, the numerous colours and patterns it offered, and the incredible serenity. And - [Afternoon Tea at Fortnum & Mason Dubai - the first store outside the UK](https://loveswah.com/afternoon-tea-at-fortnum-mason-dubai-the-first-store-outside-the-uk/) - I've always been a huge fan of Fortnum & Mason, I love their tea and the packaging is a visual feast for the eyes. But as the only stores were located in the UK, visits to one of their stores were few and far between. So I was beyond excited to learn that a Fortnum & - [Hot Air Ballooning in Dubai](https://loveswah.com/hot-air-ballooning-in-dubai/) - An inspiring blend of sophisticated luxury, authentic Indian heritage and contemporary style - Taj Dubai is a world-class destination. Experience great Indian hospitality at the shores of modern Arabia. An experience that will forever stay with me has to be watching the sunrise over the Arabian Desert from a hot air balloon with Balloon Adventures Emirates. I - [Friday Brunch in Dubai at The St Regis](https://loveswah.com/friday-brunch-in-dubai-at-the-st-regis/) - Brunch is my favourite meal, hands down, and when I found out Friday brunch was a huge deal in Dubai, I knew I had to try it for myself. Why do they brunch on Fridays, I hear you wondering? Because in Dubai, the weekend falls on Friday and Saturday (Fridays are holy days in the Islamic - [The Best Foodie Experiences in Singapore](https://loveswah.com/the-best-foodie-experiences-in-singapore/) - I recently had a few days to kill in SE Asia (what a terrible problem to have!) and decided to fly to Singapore, specifically to eat. Eating is practically a national sport in Singapore, with a huge range of cuisines, cultures and price points that will satisfy every taste. With so many food options available, it - [Hotel Review: The Taj Dubai](https://loveswah.com/hotel-review-the-taj-dubai/) - An inspiring blend of sophisticated luxury, authentic Indian heritage and contemporary style - Taj Dubai is a world-class destination. Experience great Indian hospitality at the shores of modern Arabia. I had the pleasure of staying at the newly opened Taj Dubai. The Taj exudes decadence from the second you walk in the door, with marble floors, - [Creative Fridays: An Interview with Madeleine Bourke](https://loveswah.com/creative-fridays-an-interview-with-madeleine-bourke/) - I finally got the chance to meet the super talented Madeleine from The Daily Mark and Blogger Boss at Problogger earlier this year and she was as bubbly in person as she is online! And I think one of these first things I said to her was "Can I please interview you?!" And of course she - [5 Places to Find the Best WordPress Blog Themes](https://loveswah.com/5-places-to-find-the-best-wordpress-blog-themes/) - As a graphic/web designer and blogger, I am constantly on the hunt for new Wordpress blog themes for both Love Swah (I love updating my site's look and feel) and my client's redesigns. I have a few sites I visit regularly as I know the themes are affordable, well designed, secure and easy to modify. Please note - [A Weekend Away in Melbourne](https://loveswah.com/a-weekend-away-in-melbourne/) - Melbourne has to be one of my favourite cities, and I try and pop down for a visit at least once a year. Now that I have my sister and agency located in Melbourne too, this calls for more trips! I've got the lovely Freya here today to share with us the ultimate weekend away in Melbourne! The second largest - [Creative Fridays: An Interview with Iron Chef Shellie](https://loveswah.com/creative-fridays-an-interview-with-iron-chef-shellie/) - Shellie is one of my favourite photographers and food stylists, and I was thrilled to finally meet her at an event earlier this year. A big thanks to Shellie for answering my questions and sharing some of her gorgeous images with us! Hello! Who are you and what do you do? Ahoy hoy! I'm Shellie and - [Travel Guide: Cradle Mountain, Tasmania](https://loveswah.com/travel-guide-cradle-mountain-tasmania/) - This is a bold statement, I know, but I honestly think Cradle Mountain is perhaps the most beautiful place in all of Australia. The stunning scenery, the gorgeous accommodation, the serenity, the animals, the history, the volatile weather. It all works together to present you with the quintessential Tasmanian getaway. I travelled south for Dark - [An Interview with Valli Little from Delicious and WIN 1 of 5 copies of her new book!](https://loveswah.com/an-interview-with-valli-little-from-delicious-and-win-1-of-5-copies-of-her-new-book/) - Brought to you by Nuffnang and HarperCollins. I’ve been a huge fan of Valli and the team at Delicious Magazine for years and was thrilled when the opportunity arose to interview Valli herself about her gorgeous new cookbook, Feel Good Food. I fell instantly in love with this book - it’s filled with 180 gorgeous - [Creative Fridays: An Interview with Elise and Scott from Grumpy Donuts](https://loveswah.com/creative-fridays-an-interview-with-elise-and-scott-from-grumpy-donuts/) - You may have noticed I really like baking donuts. Well, I really like eating other people's donuts too, so when I heard about a newly launched donut bakery called Grumpy Donuts I was instantly smitten! With amazing flavours like Maple Bacon, Choc Oreo Peanut Butter and Caramel Potato Chips, I knew I had to interview these - [Travel Guide: Launceston, Tasmania](https://loveswah.com/travel-guide-launceston-tasmania/) - I'm a huge fan of Tasmania (see my other Tassie guides here) and love everything about its friendly people, breathtaking landscapes and amazing food. So when an opportunity came to explore its smaller, lesser known city Launceston, I jumped at the chance! Oh and I went to Cradle Mountain too which blew my mind, but - [Cat cafes in Japan](https://loveswah.com/cat-cafes-in-japan/) - When I was planning for my Japan adventure last year I stumbled across the concept of a "Cat Cafe". These are hugely popular in Japan and they are essentially themed cafes where patrons pay a cover fee to hang out and play with cats. Many apartments in Japan forbid pets so this is a way - [A Trip to Neuschwanstein Castle](https://loveswah.com/a-trip-to-neuschwanstein-castle/) - I've always wanted to visit Neuschwanstein Castle, ever since I was young and discovered it was the inspiration for Disneyland's Sleeping Beauty Castle! I've been to Germany twice before but never had the time to make it down that far south. Finally the time came. I was in Munich, it was winter, and just before - [Weekends Away: Orange and Millthorpe, NSW](https://loveswah.com/weekends-away-orange-and-millthorpe-nsw/) - A group of friends and I recently went to Orange for a weekend of nice wine, food and chats. It's around a 4 hour drive from Sydney and yes, you do have to stop on the way and eat McDonalds (the only time I permit such a thing!) We arrived late on a Friday night - [Christmas Markets in Munich and Prague](https://loveswah.com/christmas-markets-in-munich-and-prague/) - Wow, it's hard to imagine that this time last year I was in Europe freezing my butt off and finally getting to experience a White Christmas! As an Australian, Christmas has always meant a stinking hot day with a BBQ and lots of salads followed by a swim and a nap. But I had always - [High Tea at Bistro Fax, Radisson Blu](https://loveswah.com/high-tea-at-bistro-fax-at-the-radisson-blu/) - Disclosure: This high tea was provided by Groupon for my review I love high tea and always jump at the chance to try out a new place around Sydney. The guys at Groupon offered me the chance to try out one of their current restaurants that were being offered and when I received an email advising me of - [Eating in Vietnam Part 1](https://loveswah.com/eating-in-vietnam-part-1/) - I have slowly started trawling through the 1000+ photos I took in Vietnam and will be sharing more with you soon. Turns out I took so many photos of food in Vietnam I will have to do this post in 2 parts - Vietnam is a foodie paradise after all! Fresh tropical fruit is in abundance and - [Eating in Vietnam Part 2](https://loveswah.com/eating-in-vietnam-part-2/) - Here is Part 2 of my eating in Vietnam photo-log. This covers from Hoi An up to Hanoi, via Halong Bay. I was awoken at 4am in Hoi An to go on a sunrise bike ride. I was initially a bit shakey and nearly rode a woman off a bridge into the river. Oops! I managed to make - [Billabong Retreat - A yoga and meditation holiday in Sydney](https://loveswah.com/billabong-retreat-a-yoga-and-meditation-holiday-in-sydney/) - As an avid fan of yoga, I've always wanted to try a yoga retreat. And after discussing it with an old friend (who was equally overworked and stressed), she offered to come with me and help me cross it off my 30 Before 30 list. We researched many different yoga retreats and most were either too - [Handy America tips](https://loveswah.com/handy-america-tips/) - Hey guys! I'm back from my American adventures and a bit jet lagged. So while I get myself together and start writing city-based guides, I wanted to share some handy general America tips with you if you're planning a trip. ♥ Fill in your ESTA before you leave ESTA is required for international travellers who wish to - [The Search for the Best Cupcake in America!](https://loveswah.com/the-search-for-the-best-cupcake-in-america/) - What a task I had... to try every cupcake shop I stumbled upon in America (and there are LOTS of them) on my quest to find the best cupcake in America for Love Swah. How I must suffer for my "art". The quality of American cupcakes overall, particularly chain cupcakes, was high and much better - [Travel Guide: Hobart](https://loveswah.com/travel-guide-hobart/) - I visited Tasmania once as a child. I have vague memories of staggering up Cradle Mountain at my parent’s request, blinking back tears at Port Arthur and trying, in vain, to spot Tassie Devils. Roll the clock forward many years, and with Tasmania’s booming foodie scene, my new appreciation for “getting back to nature” and - [Travel Guide: Bruny Island, Tasmania](https://loveswah.com/travel-guide-bruny-island-tasmania/) - It was our second day in Tasmania (read about Day 1 in Hobart here) and we were off to Bruny Island! Known as a food lovers paradise, it is home to numerous local producers and includes a cheese factory, oyster farm, vineyard, smokehouse and much much more. Bruny Island is made up of a North and South - [Travel Guide: Port Arthur, Tasmania](https://loveswah.com/travel-guide-port-arthur-tasmania/) - Port Arthur Historic Site Port Arthur is a small town located on the Tasman peninsula steeped in history. Historically as a former convict settlement and more recently as the scene of a devastating massacre. It provides a unique insight into colonial history in Australia and is, in my opinion, an unmissable stop when visiting Tasmania. - [Travel Guide: Swansea and Richmond, Tasmania](https://loveswah.com/travel-guide-swansea-and-richmond-tasmania/) - We arise early for our scenic drive to Swansea, about 2 hours and 15mins drive from Port Arthur. Swansea is a small town located halfway between Hobart and Launceston on Tasmania's east coast and overlooks Freycinet National Park Kate's Berry Farm Before we arrive in the heart of Swansea, we take a pitt stop at Kate's Berry - [LA Eats - Swah's Best Places to Eat in Los Angeles](https://loveswah.com/la-eats-best-places-to-eat-los-angeles/) - I've been to LA numerous times, and while it's not my favourite city (hello New York!), it certainly is a city I always stop off at the start or end of my trip. It used to be purely to break up the long journey, but now I enjoy spending a few days in Los Angeles - [SF Eats – Swah’s Best Places to Eat in San Francisco](https://loveswah.com/sf-eats-swahs-best-places-to-eat-in-san-francisco/) - I LOVE San Francisco and would move there in a heartbeat (anyone want to give me a visa?). The beautiful architecture, fascinating history, rolling hills and sprawling parks make San Francisco a traveller's paradise, and the sheer quality and selection of food is second to none. ♥ Tartine Bakery - 600 Guerrero St Prepare to queue, but it's - [Travel Guide: Hervey Bay, Queensland](https://loveswah.com/travel-guide-hervey-bay-queensland/) - After a wonderful and inspirational few days at the ProBlogger Conference on the Gold Coast, I was mentally and physically drained and very much looking forward to some R&R. And Hervey Bay was the perfect answer. Located just 3½ hours drive (or a 45 minute flight) north of Brisbane, I was thrilled to be selected - [Travel Guide: Maryborough, Queensland](https://loveswah.com/travel-guide-maryborough-queensland/) - This is Part 2 of my recent trip to Queensland. You can read Part 1 here. We depart Hervey Bay for a day trip to Maryborough, one of Queensland's oldest cities and the birthplace of Mary Poppins author P.L. Travers. We meet our guide at Maryborough Town Hall for a walking tour of Maryborough's heritage - [10 Tips for Travelling in China](https://loveswah.com/10-tips-for-travelling-in-china/) - I've just returned from an amazing holiday in China! It was both breathtaking and challenging at times, so I wanted to share with you my 10 tips for travelling in China to make your future trip a little easier. Stay tuned for more China posts on what to see and do, and most importantly - - [The Best Breakfast and Brunch Spots in Sydney](https://loveswah.com/the-best-breakfast-and-brunch-spots-in-sydney/) - If I had a dollar for every time a friend/colleague/family member asked me for my dining suggestions, I would be very rich. You may have noticed from my Instagram that I eat out a lot, so I always have an ever-expanding list of recommendations to share. I thought it would be easiest for everyone if - [The Best Lunch and Dinner Spots in Sydney](https://loveswah.com/the-best-lunch-and-dinner-spots-in-sydney/) - I'm back with part 2 of my Sydney Eats guide! Here is part 1 The Best Breakfast and Brunch Spots in Sydney. I'll have the final instalment, desserts, up next week! I tried to narrow this list down but we are so spoilt for choice this list has grown to 38 places and counting. As - [The Best Sweet Stuff in Sydney](https://loveswah.com/the-best-sweet-stuff-in-sydney/) - My final section of my Sydney Eats guide is here and it's all about sugar! For your reference, here is part 1 The Best Breakfast and Brunch Spots in Sydney and part 2 The Best Lunch and Dinner Spots in Sydney. As previously noted: – I have lived in Surry Hills, Redfern and Balmain and work in - [Vegas Eats - Swah's Best Places to Eat in Las Vegas](https://loveswah.com/vegas-eats-swahs-best-places-to-eat-in-las-vegas/) - Las Vegas is a magnificent, glitzy, tacky and terrible place, all at the same time. I'm not going to lie to you, this isn't the heart of culinary delights in America (although I am sure they would like to think they are). Vegas is chockfull of celebrity chef-endorsed restaurants that are overpriced and generally of average quality. - [Travel Guide: Xi'an and The Terracotta Warriors, China](https://loveswah.com/travel-guide-xian-and-the-terracotta-warriors-china/) - From the awe-inspiring Terracotta Warriors to the smells and sights of the Muslim Quarter, Xi'an, you were my favourite city in China! Located in the central-northwest of China in Shaanxi Province, I highly suggest jumping on an overnight train from Shanghai and experiencing this amazing city for 2 to 3 days. When I arrived in - [8 Reasons to Love Cambodia](https://loveswah.com/8-reasons-to-love-cambodia/) - Hello! I'm Tara Mathews from food and travel blog vegeTARAian and I'm honoured to post for Love Swah readers a little something from my recent travels. As someone with a deep love of Southeast Asia, l wanted to share some reasons why you should add Cambodia to your travel wish list. I hope some or - [5 misconceptions about travelling to Africa](https://loveswah.com/5-misconceptions-about-travelling-to-africa/) - Africa has been on my bucket list for ages, but I always seem to find an excuse not to go. It's too hard to get to! It's dangerous! Etc etc. Fortunately for me (and you), I have the Africa-savvy Erin from The Hiatus Collective to share with you her tips and dispel all those misconceptions! - [Travel Guide: Noumea, New Caledonia](https://loveswah.com/travel-guide-noumea-new-caledonia/) - I recently returned from an amazing holiday in New Caledonia. It's only a 2.5 hour flight from Sydney and I was quite surprised by how few Aussies were there. Perhaps one of the reasons is that it can be quite expensive, however I have shared cheaper accommodation and eating options to suit all budgets. We left - [NOLA Eats – Swah’s Best Places to Eat in New Orleans](https://loveswah.com/nola-eats-swahs-best-places-to-eat-in-new-orleans/) - Oh New Orleans, how I love you. They say every heart holds onto a little piece of New Orleans, and I have to agree. From the friendly locals and stunning architecture to the turbulent history and amazing creole cuisine, NOLA is a fascinating place to visit. You could spend days stumbling around the French Quarter, but don't - [5 Reasons You Must Visit Tasmania This Winter](https://loveswah.com/5-reasons-you-must-visit-tasmania-this-winter/) - I LOVE Tasmania, it's one of my favourite destinations to visit and offers an amazing array of experiences throughout the year. My last trip to Tassie was in the summer (read more about it here) and it was all about bushwalking on hot summer days, visits to the local outdoor market and boat rides. But arguably, - [Travel Guide: The Great Wall of China](https://loveswah.com/travel-guide-the-great-wall-of-china/) - I've been fortunate enough to see many amazing things around the world on my travels, but the Great Wall of China is quite possibly the most awe-inspiring sight I have ever seen. I simultaneously wanted to cry and scream with joy! So many feels. I had been nervously checking the weather for our Great Wall - [Vivid Sydney Festival 2015 - Ready to light up your life](https://loveswah.com/vivid-sydney-festival-2015-ready-to-light-up-your-life/) - Vivid Sydney 2015, the annual celebration of light, music, art and innovation takes place over 18 days starting May 22 and ending June 8. While a small number of special events require ticket purchase, most of this glorious festival is free! With so much going on, check out the following tips for getting the most - [Travel Guide: The Islands, New Caledonia](https://loveswah.com/travel-guide-the-islands-new-caledonia/) - Welcome to Part 2 of my guide to New Caledonia! You can read Part 1, on Noumea, here. If you're planning a holiday to New Caledonia, make sure you set aside at least several days to explore some of New Caledonia's famous tropical islands. Even if you're short on time and staying at Noumea, you - [A Weekend Away in Adelaide](https://loveswah.com/a-weekend-away-in-adelaide/) - In recent years, South Australia's Adelaide has risen high on the list of favoured getaway destinations, especially among young professionals. With one of a kind historical sites to discover and explore, incredible food, wine and chocolates plus abundant shopping, Adelaide is now a hot spot everyone seems to be talking about. What to do Explore Port Adelaide's wealth of - [A Fun Staycation in Sydney with Nuffnang](https://loveswah.com/a-fun-staycation-in-sydney-with-nuffnang/) - Thanks to Nuffnang, Destination NSW, Qantas and Rydges I've been living in Sydney for over 20 years now and must admit sometimes it's a little too easy to take this gorgeous city for granted. So what's the answer? A staycation of course! My fellow Bloggerati bloggers and the Nuffnang team were coming to Sydney to - [Creative Fridays: An Interview with Lucy from Bake Play Smile](https://loveswah.com/creative-fridays-an-interview-with-lucy-from-bake-play-smile/) - I've been following Lucy's delicious creations on her blog for a while now, and when she was asked to join me at the Bloggerati talent agency I was thrilled to have a fellow baking partner in crime! We finally met in person at the recent Nuffnang Sydney Trip and she was just as amazing as I expected her - [My Favourite Salted Caramel Recipes](https://loveswah.com/my-favourite-salted-caramel-recipes/) - My love for salted caramel is well known, and fortunately for me, my readers are just as obsessed with it as I am! So I thought it would only be polite to round up my list of favourite salted caramel recipes. I love the versatility of salted caramel, it can be used as a thick - [8 Things I Wish I Knew When I Started Blogging](https://loveswah.com/8-things-i-wish-i-knew-when-i-started-blogging/) - Can you believe I've been blogging on Love Swah for nearly 5 years now? That sure is a long time! 5 years ago the blogosphere was an entirely different space. There wasn't a million blogger courses readily available to learn from, monetising wasn't in the forefront of many blogger's minds and things were a lot.. simpler. - [The Red Cross Winter Blood Drive - A Behind the Scenes Tour](https://loveswah.com/the-red-cross-winter-blood-drive-a-behind-the-scenes-tour/) - Brought to you by Red Cross and Nuffnang Giving blood was always one of those things that I knew I should do but "was just too busy". After a failed attempt to donate blood years ago (I was an unhealthy vegetarian at the time and my iron and hemoglobin levels were too low) plus a - [How to Survive a Long Haul Flight](https://loveswah.com/how-to-survive-a-long-haul-flight/) - Image by alanlikesmovies Flights can be long and draining and leave you looking less then perfect at the other end! To avoid starting your holiday dehydrated, cranky and headachey follow these tips. Before you get on the plane: ♥ Wear minimal makeup to the airport. I understand you probably feel less than glamorous and perhaps a - [When You Don't Want to Stay in a Hotel](https://loveswah.com/when-you-dont-want-to-stay-in-a-hotel/) - Cute little cabins I stayed in during a trip to Iceland. It felt literally like the middle of nowhere! When you are planning a trip away you generally automatically think of booking your accommodation in a hotel. But about if you want something a little different? Cheaper? Perhaps a more authentic "experience"? There are many - [When cooking and design combine](https://loveswah.com/when-cooking-and-design-combine/) - I am always very happy when 2 of my great loves combine, and design and cooking are a match made in heaven when Pantone is involved! I am sure you are all aware of the Pantone mugs that seems to be a permanent fixture on any many designer's desks (we need coffee and lots of - [Group Travel vs Solo Adventure](https://loveswah.com/group-travel-vs-solo-adventure/) - I often get asked by friends whether they should consider an organised tour or go solo. As always I respond with the pros and cons of each and it ultimately comes down to YOU. Your preferences, your comfort zone and ofcourse where exactly you are going. Image by hiandhello Group Travel pros ♥ If you are - [Food Styling by Evelina Bratell](https://loveswah.com/food-styling-by-evelina-bratell/) - I love this unique approach to food styling by Evelina Bratell and photographed by Carl Kleiner for IKEA's new baking book called Hembakat är Bäst (Homemade is Best). Speaking of IKEA, how amazing is their new ad featuring 100 cats? I am in love. - [Marian Bantjes](https://loveswah.com/marian-bantjes/) - I recently read an interview on graphic designer Marian Bantjes in an old Eye Magazine and fell in love with her work, particularly her typography. Her seduction poster for the Yale Architecture Lecture series was the sexiest piece of typography I had seen in a long time and I spent a good deal of time - [Stupid Tourists](https://loveswah.com/stupid-tourists/) - Here is a stupid tourist pointing to where she SHOULD be on the map and where she actually is. It is of course the maps fault. Not the 6 champagnes I consumed the night before combined with the sweltering heat! I believe some people should just not travel. Too mean perhaps? Maybe, but read this - [Check list - before you leave](https://loveswah.com/check-list-before-you-leave/) - Copenhagen, Denmark There are many things to take care of before you leave for a trip, some are obvious and some maybe not so much. Month(s) before you leave: ♥ Immunisations. If you are visiting a country in the developing world it is best to get your shots/pills well before you leave. Do NOT leave - [The Importance of Down Time in a Long Trip](https://loveswah.com/the-importance-of-down-time-in-a-long-trip/) - Take some time out to relax like I did here in Norway, it can make a world of difference on your trip As wonderful as it is to cram in as many cities as possible (2 nights Paris, then 2 nights Rome, then dash to Vienna for a night etc etc...) you will burn out - [Travel Disasters - When Everything Goes Wrong](https://loveswah.com/travel-disasters-when-everything-goes-wrong/) - Sometimes no matter how much careful preparation and organisation you do, disasters happen on a trip. The key thing to remember is something probably WILL go wrong on your trip and its outcome will depend on how well you handle it. Here are some examples of travel disasters that have happened to me and close - [Dreamy design hotels](https://loveswah.com/dreamy-design-hotels/) - I love design hotels, where so much effort and thought has been placed on each room your stay is anything but ordinary! Hotel du Petit Moulin - Paris, France A divine hotel designed by Christian Lacroix in the heart of the le Marais district. For more information go to their website. Each room features unique - [Font Face: Typography in Makeup](https://loveswah.com/font-face-typography-in-makeup/) - From Spanish design studio Atipo comes Font Face, a project which pays tribute to 4 typographic legends and their creators. It fuses my love for typography, fashion and makeup in a visually striking way and will make any typo fan weak at the knees. The typefaces represented are Helvetica Bold, Clarendon Bold, Carousel Medium and - [Sweet Treats Around the World](https://loveswah.com/sweet-treats-around-the-world/) - I thought today I would give you an insight into some of the sweet delights I sampled on my recent trip to Japan and Europe! First stop, Japan. I never realised how crazy the Japanese were for desserts. But cake stores and crepe bars are everywhere! A decadent cake display in Tokyo Mmmm Sweetbox! All - [How to eat cheaply on holidays](https://loveswah.com/how-to-eat-cheaply-on-holidays/) - Eating can really make or break your strict travel budget you have imposed on yourself whilst travelling. On one end of the scale there is the dirt poor backpacker who refuses to eat out and exists on baked beans cooked in the hostel's kitchen. On the other end of the scale is the traveller with - [Girls in Design- Spotlight On: Jessica Hische](https://loveswah.com/girls-in-design-spotlight-on-jessica-hische/) - Jessica Hische is one of my favourite typographers and I look up to her elegant designs and typography work immensely. She graduated from the Tyler School of Art with a degree in Graphic Design in 2006. Currently based in Brooklyn, New York, Hische started off working at Headcase Design before moving to New York to work for - [Respecting other country's culture and customs](https://loveswah.com/respecting-other-countrys-culture-and-customs/) - Image source When doing your research on a country's accommodation, sightseeing and transport don't forget to research an important thing - etiquette. I can't emphasise enough the importance of researching a country's culture and customs before you leave to ensure you don't accidently insult a local or worse, get in serious trouble. ♥ In Japan it - [Beating the Post-Holiday Blues](https://loveswah.com/beating-the-post-holiday-blues/) - You've just been on an amazing trip of a lifetime which of course is never long enough and then suddenly you are back home. All the excitement and thrills and new experiences of the past few weeks seem long forgotten as you face the prospect of returning to normal life. I know I have been - [Purikura - Japanese Photobooths](https://loveswah.com/purikura-japanese-photobooths/) - One of the (many) things I loved about Japan was the "Purikura" or photo sticker booths that were everywhere! They cost 400 YEN (around AUD$5) and are so so much fun. They enlarge your eyes, smooth your skin, let you add makeup as well as random accessories like bows and hearts. I successfully dragged my - [Letterpress obsession](https://loveswah.com/letterpress-obsession/) - Like a lot of graphic designers, I too have fallen under the spell of letterpress. Not only are letterpressed products so beautiful, elegant and timeless, but I just love the idea of designing and working with my hands (as opposed to spending 10 hours a day on the computer in Illustrator and InDesign). Whilst it's - [Norwegian Wood](https://loveswah.com/norwegian-wood/) - My heart is still aching a little after this weekend's viewing of the film adaptation of Haruki Murakami's bestselling novel Norwegian Wood. It is an amazing book by an amazing author, and I must admit I was a little apprehensive that they would stuff it up, as screen adaptations of books often do. I think - [The Distillery launch and a letterpress course](https://loveswah.com/the-distillery-launch-and-a-letterpress-course/) - Last week I had the pleasure of attending the launch of The Distillery letterpress studio as well as attend a letterpress course at the Penrith Museum of Printing. It was a drizzly Thursday night but that didn't stop the hoards of letterpress enthusiasts packing the studio of The Distillery at North Sydney. Here is a - [How to stay healthy on a trip (and not come back 10kg heavier!)](https://loveswah.com/how-to-stay-healthy-on-a-trip-and-not-come-back-10kg-heavier/) - Keeping healthy whilst on holiday not only keeps the waistline down but also can help keep your immune system up and prevent you from coming down with a sickness. Before I start, don't diet on your holiday! Food is such an integral part of experiencing a country's culture. Do you really want to be angrily - [Black cat auditions, Hollywood 1961](https://loveswah.com/black-cat-auditions-hollywood-1961/) - I'm known to be a bit of a crazy cat lady and when I saw these images of a black cat audition from the 60s my heart kinda exploded. Images from The Freelancer's Fashionblog via Retronaut. Eeeeeee! For more cat related shenanigans check out Cats in Advertising and Cat Cafes in Japan. - [Kike Besada](https://loveswah.com/visual-pleasures-kike-besada/) - I stumbled across these collages by New York based Spanish designer Kike Besada and they really grabbed my attention. I would love to hang one on my wall! Hope you all have a lovely weekend! - [Illustrated Desserts](https://loveswah.com/visual-pleasures-illustrated-desserts/) - Isn't this painting of biscuits by Caitlin Shearer divine? I might have to stalk her etsy store and purchase myself one so I can stare at it when I have no time to bake! I have also recently stumbled across They Draw & Cook, a site featuring recipes illustrated by artists from around - [Knowing when to travel - take note of the seasons!](https://loveswah.com/when-to-travel-take-note-of-the-seasons/) - I am constantly surprised by the amount of people who head off overseas after scoring a cheap flight or accommodation package and then complain when there are monsoonal rains/40+ degree humid weather/cyclones. Seasons regularly dictate when and where I travel and I am careful to research my destination properly so that I don't end up - [Sweet Branding](https://loveswah.com/sweet-branding/) - Designing the visual identity for a sweets company would be my idea of a dream job, combining 2 of my greatest loves - design and food! Here are 2 great projects I stumbled upon recently. CIOCCOLATO by Savvy Studio This rebranding of Cioccolato, a pastry boutique, is colourful and fun whilst still retaining a high end feel - [Why Should You Care About Typography?](https://loveswah.com/why-should-you-care-about-typography/) - I just stumbled across this beautiful infographic on typography recently and had to share. I wish I could properly credit the designer but all I can find out is that it was created by someone who only calls themselves "Noodlor". I would have loved to refer to this when I started out studying design - - [Audrey Kawasaki](https://loveswah.com/audrey-kawasaki/) - After lusting over Audrey Kawasaki's work for years and seeing her exhibition back in 2010, I finally purchased my first print last night! Where I Rest is still availale to purchase on Audrey's site here Audrey's work is both innocent and erotic, combining the styles of Japanese manga and Art Noveau. She paints with oil - [Happy International Women's Day!](https://loveswah.com/happy-international-womens-day/) - Happy International Women's Day everyone! Earlier in the week I had the pleasure of attending an AGDA (Australian Graphic Design Association) event entitled "Pink is the New Blue - Where the hell are all the women?" I listed to Zoe Pollitt (Co-founder, Eskimo), Linda Jukic (Creative Director, Moon), Jacqueline Morony (Creative Director, Generation Alliance) and - [Pantone Tarts](https://loveswah.com/pantone-tarts/) - You know how much I love it when baking and design come together (see this post on Pantone cooking accessories) - well these Pantone Tarts by French food designer Emilie de Griottes blew me away! Wow! I highly recommend you go and subscribe to her blog, her work is amazing. Thank me later. - [A colourful home](https://loveswah.com/a-colourful-home/) - A lovely friend recently introduced me to the credit-card draining website Beautiful Spaces. A lot of ooohing and aaaahing soon commenced and I honestly don't know where to start! So many colourful objects to brighten up your home. Should I buy the Pantone pots for my blossoming herb garden? The delicate bird shaped sugar cubes - [Weird and wonderful food around the world - A guide for the adventurous foodie](https://loveswah.com/weird-and-wonderful-food-around-the-world-a-guide-for-the-adventurous-foodie/) - I was writing an Icelandic travel guide yesterday and after detailing the Icelandic delicacy of putrified shark meat (apparently it tastes and smells as bad as it sounds) I thought I would go into more details of unique (and often stomach-churning) local delicacies around the world. Image source Putrified Shark (Hákarl) - Iceland Hákarl is shark meat - [Collaboration with Litographs.com](https://loveswah.com/collaboration-with-litographs-com/) - When I am not babbling on about travel or baking delicious treats, I am designing. I was recently approached by Danny from Litographs.com to collaborate together on some designs for his Litograph posters - prints that are created from the text of classic books. He had spotted my Penguin book designs online and loved the contrast of the silhouette - [50 Shades of Grey... cupcakes?!](https://loveswah.com/50-shades-of-grey-cupcakes/) - I generally try and avoid literary band wagons. I avoided the Twilight thing like the plague and am still yet to generate enough interest to read the True Blood or Game of Thrones books. I recently starting hearing about a book called 50 Shades of Grey and I am sure any lady reading this will - [Obsessed with Ombre](https://loveswah.com/obsessed-with-ombre/) - ombré noun - From the French word ombrer (to shade). Having colours or tones that shade into each other —used especially of fabrics in which the colour is graduated from light to dark. I have recently become obsessed ombre and first discovered this trend through cake. I loved the effect of tinting layers of cake a different shade. - [Dulce de Leche / Doce de Leite](https://loveswah.com/dulce-de-leche-doce-de-leite/) - Edit: Thanks to my lovely readers I have now sourced some locations to buy authentic Dulce de Leche in Australia. Firstly online from Mi Casa Fine Foods, or at a store called La Torre, 9 Nelson St Fairfield. I was recently gifted 2 jars of delicious Dulce de Leche (or in Portuguese Doce de Leite) from my cousin who had just - [Wanderlust: Pamukkale](https://loveswah.com/wanderlust-pamukkale/) - I recently discovered Pamukkale, Turkey through a friend's photos on Instagram. It came as no surprise to me that Pamukkale translated as "cotton castle" - it looks like these hot springs formed against cliffs have been draped in white cotton candy! Pamukkale's terraces are made of travertine, a sedimentary rock deposited by water from the hot springs. - [Visual Pleasures: David Seetoh Lang](https://loveswah.com/visual-pleasures-david-seetoh-lang/) - I just came across this amazing photograph on Pinterest by David Seetoh Lang and was blown away. It is quite possibly the most fun, unique and sweet portrait of a woman and a cat I have ever seen. Also the logistics of this shot baffle me, was there someone off screen hurling the cat into - [Wanderlust: The Northern Lights / Aurora Borealis](https://loveswah.com/wanderlust-the-northern-lights-aurora-borealis/) - I have spent a lot of time travelling throughout Iceland and Scandinavia but it's always during summertime - so I have never seen the Northern Lights! Known as the Aurora Borealis in northern latitudes, it is a natural light display in the sky caused by the collision of energetic charged particles with atoms in the high altitude - [Choupette Lagerfeld, the fanciest cat in fashion](https://loveswah.com/choupette-lagerfeld-the-fanciest-cat-in-fashion/) - I have recently fallen head over heels for Choupette Lagerfeld, Karl Lagerfeld's insanely pampered pussy cat. Harpers Bazaar recently did an interview with Karl which gave us an insight into the bizarre world this kitty inhabits. Not only does Choupette have two maids and 24 hour medical care, she also has a driver too! Apparently Choupette - [Next stop, Vietnam!](https://loveswah.com/next-stop-vietnam/) - Image Source I am usually a fairly sensible person. Well, sometimes at least. When I book a trip it's usually months (often a year) in advance and I research and plan everything to the nth degree because I am a control freak. On Wednesday morning I was chatting with the girls at work about their - [Dietlicious - A review](https://loveswah.com/dietlicious-a-review/) - I have always been turned off diet food delivery services - the food was over processed, the flavours were bland and there was so much sodium in them I felt they were doing me more harm than good. After a decadent winter that included far too many delicious dinners out and home made puddings, I wanted - [Vietnam Guide Part #1 - Before You Leave](https://loveswah.com/vietnam-guide-part-1-before-you-leave/) - ♥ Travel Insurance Image source This should be purchased the minute you book that flight! Most policies do not automatically include cover for claims involving motorcycling. If you plan on riding a motorcycle (even as a passenger), make sure you include this option on your policy. ♥ Immunisations Pay a visit to your doctor at least a month - [High Tea at The Victoria Room](https://loveswah.com/high-tea-at-the-victoria-room/) - It was my turn to organise a food blogger outing and I wanted to do a high tea - spending the afternoon drinking tea and eating cake is my kind of Sunday! After much deliberation I settled on The Victoria Room - they had a range of affordable high teas featuring tasty sounding treats. I had - [Addicted to Succulents](https://loveswah.com/addicted-to-succulents/) - A while ago I blogged about my 2 little succulents planted in Wedgwood tea tins and some succulent-related inspiration. Well this love for succulents has seemed to have turned into a full blown addiction and they keep multiplying! We have a table out on our balcony that they sit on (the herb garden has been - [Happy Halloween!](https://loveswah.com/happy-halloween/) - Hope everyone is having a Happy Halloween and eating lots of treats. I didn't have time to bake for Halloween this year (sad face) but fortunately my awesome and talented friend Alison created some spectacular cupcakes using my recipes that she has allowed me to share with you! She used my Devilishly Decadent Devil's Food - [How to find a cheap flight](https://loveswah.com/how-to-find-a-cheap-flight/) - I often get asked by friends and family for my tips on nabbing a cheap fare. Sometimes you get rewarded for planning ahead and careful organisation, other times you just get lucky and manage to grab an awesome fare! Regardless, these ideas will help make securing a cheap deal much easier. Image source ♥ Book early - [Things that make me happy](https://loveswah.com/things-that-make-me-happy/) - ♥ Collecting pastel nail polishes (addicted) ♥ Matching my nail colour to my fruit ♥ Matching my nail colour to my new blog design ♥ Catsitting! ♥ Especially when the cat likes to sit on your toilet ♥ Doing a chocolate making class! (read more about the day here) ♥ Learning how to temper chocolate ♥ Eating naughty food. Hot dogs - [Strange Fruits by Sarah Illenberger](https://loveswah.com/strange-fruits-by-sarah-illenberger/) - I recently stumbled across this series of gorgeous and quirky food art by German art director Sarah Illenberger. I would love to hang any of these on my wall. Hello disco pineapple! For more of her work check out sarahillenberger.tictail.com - [Pantone Pairings by David Schwen](https://loveswah.com/pantone-pairings-by-david-schwen/) - I always love it when food and design collide and it frequently involves Pantone. These Pantone Pairings of food on Instagram by Minneapolis based designer David Schwen are eye-catching, clever and I look forward to following this ongoing project. What flavour combination are you hoping he does next? For more Pantone Pairings in this series go here - [RivaReno Gelato, Darlinghurst](https://loveswah.com/rivareno-gelato-darlinghurst/) - I LOVE gelato and was very excited to attend a taste testing with Mel and Tara at the newly opened RivaReno gelato at 280 Crown St, Darlinghurst. This Australian branch of the established Italian gelato chain is the first to be opened outside its homeland. All of the ingredients (except the eggs, fruit and nuts) are sourced - [Happy International Women's Day](https://loveswah.com/happy-international-womens-day-2/) - Today is International Women's Day, a day to celebrate the respect, appreciation and love towards women (although shouldn't that be every day?!) and honour the struggles of those who have fought and are still fighting for justice to get us where we are today. In some places like China, Russia, Vietnam and Bulgaria, International Women's Day is actually - [Fashion Cupcakes](https://loveswah.com/fashion-cupcakes/) - You know when you stumble across something on the internet and think "damn I wish I thought of that". Well, it happens to me quite often. And when I saw these awesome fashion-inspired cupcakes made by Edsalv Lisa and photographed by Therese Aldgard I knew I had to share. They accurately portray the style of each fashion label through - [30 before 30](https://loveswah.com/30-before-30/) - I love lists! My room is overflowing with notebooks filled with handwritten lists. There is nothing more satisfying then crossing something off your list which has led me to writing a "30 before 30" list. 30 things I want to try and achieve before I hit the big THREE-OH. This means my due date to - [Food Typography by Danielle Evans](https://loveswah.com/food-typography-by-danielle-evans/) - Food and typography are 2 of my greatest loves in life (after cats) and when a friend showed me the work of designer and illustrator Danielle Evans I was smitten. Using ingredients such as curry powder, chili, coffee and flour to create her designs, she sculpts the products by hand into unique typographic designs. My favourite - [New Shanghai, Chatswood](https://loveswah.com/new-shanghai-chatswood/) - I've been living in a Surry Hills bubble for a few years now and there are now only 2 things that will make me go over the bridge - family and good food! Fortunately, New Shanghai in Chatswood has come highly recommended and I look forward to sampling their menu. Located on the ground floor - [Off on a (relaxing) adventure!](https://loveswah.com/off-on-a-relaxing-adventure/) - I'm not very good at relaxing. I always have to be doing fifty million things at once in the fear I might get bored and.... self combust? I'm not sure what I think will happen. But after working far too many 70+ hour work weeks in a row, my body had a little breakdown and - [Off to America - your tips please!](https://loveswah.com/off-to-america-your-tips-please/) - Next week I'll be jetting off to LA and I can't wait! This trip has been in the works for 6 months and it's crept up awfully fast - in fact I am suddenly begging time to slow down as I try and get work finished before I leave. Never mind, I'm super excited and - [Favourite Travel Accessories - A guest post](https://loveswah.com/favourite-travel-accessories-a-guest-post/) - My last (but certainly not least) guest post comes from the lovely Amy of Oh, My Design Blog. Amy's blog was one of the first Aussie design blogs I read (and commented on!) and I am a huge fan of her work. Her taste is second to none and she has rounded up some gorgeous - [The Paramount Coffee Project](https://loveswah.com/the-paramount-coffee-project/) - I've been eagerly awaiting the re-opening of the Paramount Complex which now features the Golden Age Cinema (I've been to see a movie, it's amazing) and now The Paramount Coffee Project, a cafe with great coffee and mouth-watering food. I've since been twice to The Paramount Coffee Project, and I look forward to returning again - [Alpha Restaurant](https://loveswah.com/alpha-restaurant/) - I love Greek food but must admit it's a cuisine I rarely eat. So when Alpha opened up in the CBD I rallied a posse of foodie ladies to try it out, and then bought my family back for a birthday several weeks later. When Wasamedia contacted me to try out Alpha's newly launched Saturday lunch - [How to Survive a Music Festival](https://loveswah.com/how-to-survive-a-music-festival/) - Image source I just returned from an amazing time at Splendour in the Grass, complete with handy tips courtesy of a lovely thing known as hindsight. Keep these tips in mind when embarking on your own multi-day music festival to ensure you have the best time possible! 1. Don't camp. Seriously, if you're a girl and - [BPAY View - Win a Personal Assistant for the Day!](https://loveswah.com/bpay-view-win-a-personal-assistant-for-the-day/) - We all wish someone could do the boring things for us. BPAY View is like a personal assistant for your bills, the service is the easiest way to receive, view, pay and store your bills within your online banking. And with convenient reminders sent via email or text, they make it easy to pay on - [Jarrah Hot Chocolate](https://loveswah.com/jarrah-hot-chocolate/) - I think it's fairly obvious I have a huge sweet tooth, and always feel the desire to finish a meal off with something sweet. This is all well and good until the kilos started piling on after a rather indulgent winter, and suddenly reaching for a chocolate bar or pudding isn't the most sensible option. - [Creative Fridays: An Interview with Eloise Rapp](https://loveswah.com/creative-fridays-an-interview-with-eloise-rapp/) - Today's interview is the wonderful Sydney-based creative Eloise Rapp, who turned her impressive textile designing skills into an accessories label and a soon-to-be-launched bathing goods collection. Hello! Who are you and what do you do? Hello! I'm Eloise and I'm a textile designer, illustrator and professional curious mind. I design and produce vibrantly illustrated silk - [Creative Fridays: An Interview with Erika Rax](https://loveswah.com/creative-fridays-an-interview-with-erika-rax/) - I fell in love with Erika's style of photography as soon as I stumbled across her online and love reading her delightful blog full of treats. Welcome, Erika! Hello! Who are you and what do you do? Hi! I’m Erika, a freelance photographer/stylist/designer/blogger/cookie baker and eater. What work are you most proud of to date? - [My Top 10 Recipes from 2014](https://loveswah.com/my-top-10-recipes-from-2014/) - Oh 2014, what a delicious year you were! I thought I'd take the time to round up my top 10 recipes from 2014, providing you (and me!) with some baking inspiration for the year to come. This foodie trip down memory lane has me salivating and wanting to go straight home to make some more - [How to minimise your bank fees when travelling overseas](https://loveswah.com/minimise-bank-fees-when-travelling-overseas/) - Long gone are the days of going overseas with a bunch of traveller's cheques stuffed in your money belt. With the rise of internet banking and ATMs, it's easy to access your money from anywhere in the world, but it can get expensive. Really expensive. I've returned from holidays with hundreds of dollars in international - [Feeling the Love - 5 Dessert Recipes for Valentine's Day](https://loveswah.com/feeling-the-love-5-dessert-recipes-for-valentines-day/) - I think one of the most thoughtful gifts you can give your loved one (apart from a puppy) is a homemade present. Specifically, dessert. I've rounded up my 5 favourite love-themed desserts to prepare you for the rapidly approaching Valentines Day. Even if you think it's just a marketer's shallow attempt to sell more greeting - [Baking Bad: The Most Common Baking Mistakes and How to Fix Them](https://loveswah.com/baking-bad-the-most-common-baking-mistakes-and-how-to-fix-them/) - I often hear a lot of people saying they're bad at baking. They may be a whiz in the kitchen with savoury foods, but the second desserts come onto the scene it's a disaster. Baking is often referred to as a science, meaning you can't just throw in ingredients to taste and hope for the - [Beauty tips before you travel](https://loveswah.com/beauty-tips-before-you-travel/) - You're about to go on a fantastic holiday, and you want to look fabulous, right? I might sound vain, but if I'm trying to enjoy myself on a trip the last thing I want to deal with is regrowth, calloused feet or hairy legs. Sure you can get these issues tended to whilst you're away, but - [What to Pack for a Tropical Holiday](https://loveswah.com/what-to-pack-for-a-tropical-holiday/) - I'm off to New Caledonia in a few weeks! As it's my first tropical holiday, I've been giving quite a bit of thought as to what to pack. Since New Caledonia is a remote island, buying things there is an expensive endeavour. So organisation is key! ♥ A fabulous swimsuit - I recently purchased this vintage-style one - [Girls in Design- Spotlight On: Gemma O'Brien](https://loveswah.com/girls-in-design-spotlight-on-gemma-obrien/) - Welcome to the second part of Girls in Design! You can find part 1 on Jessica Hische here. Today's spotlight is on Australian typographer and illustrator Gemma O'Brien. I had the pleasure of seeing her talk last week at the Sydney design conference Semi Permanent. I was initially struggling to stay awake due to battling - [Some thoughts on the gender inequality in graphic design](https://loveswah.com/some-thoughts-on-the-gender-inequality-in-graphic-design/) - Firstly I'd like to state this is not some form of a feminist rant - it is something that I've been thinking about a lot lately and why I started the Girls in Design section on this blog. Time and time again, females are underrepresented in the graphic design industry. Did you know that only 3% - [Packaging Design for Tea](https://loveswah.com/packaging-design-for-tea/) - I love nothing more than a relaxing and uplifting cup of English Breakfast tea during the day and a cup of SleepyTime tea before bed. And packaging for tea has never been better! Image source My dad is currently working his way through this tin of Wedgwood Orange Pekoe tea and I get to keep - [Planning a holiday?](https://loveswah.com/planning-a-holiday/) - I'm getting itchy feet again and am starting to plan my next holiday - once I finally decide on my destination of course! I'm thinking a few weeks in Reykjavík and New York. Heaven. I thought I'd share with you some of my top travel tips to help you in planning your next escape. Research and - [Creative Fridays: An Interview with Katherine Sabbath](https://loveswah.com/creative-fridays-an-interview-with-katherine-sabbath/) - I first came across Katherine's amazing dessert creations on Instagram and was blown away by her unique cake designs, crazy colour schemes and creative ideas (bacon and eggs cupcakes? Yes please!). Oh and she has fantastic hair. So I was thrilled to be able to interview her for my Creative Fridays segment! Hello! Who are - [How to stay healthy on holidays](https://loveswah.com/how-to-stay-healthy-on-holidays/) - Today on the blog I have the lovely Amy from Eat Pray Workout sharing her tips on staying healthy while on holidays! I wish I had read this before my recent travels, as 5 holidays in as many weeks has resulted in a few extra kgs. Ugh! xx Swah Holidays are one of the best times of - [A simple DIY dessert/candy table](https://loveswah.com/a-simple-diy-dessertcandy-table/) - Dessert tables have been taking the party world by storm in the last few years and if my Pinterest feed is anything to go by, the trend is definitely here to stay! There’s a lot to love about dessert tables. They’re quick and easy to set up, everyone gets to pick and choose what they want, and - [Creative Fridays: An Interview with Bec from Dancing Through Sunday](https://loveswah.com/creative-fridays-an-interview-with-bec-from-dancing-through-sunday/) - Bec is a super talented food blogger from Melbourne who possibly loves brunch as much as me! From her beautifully shot recipes and great cafe reviews to her super inspiring travel posts, this is a lady on the up and up. Hello! Who are you and what do you do? Hi hi hi!! I am Bec - [My Favourite Typography Inspiration on Instagram](https://loveswah.com/my-favourite-typography-inspiration-on-instagram/) - I've had a lifelong obsession with typography and I'm thrilled to be taking my first calligraphy course with none other than Maybelle Imasa at The School this weekend. I get a lot of lettering inspiration from Instagram, so today I thought I'd share with you my favourites! Jasmine Dowling At only 22 years of age, this - [Ikea Cushion Hack](https://loveswah.com/ikea-cushion-hack/) - Today on the blog I have the super talented Sharon from I Restore Stuff sharing with us her Ikea Cushion tutorial. This is so cute I know I am going to have to make one myself! I’m excited to be sharing on Love Swah’s beautiful blog today, my little creative Ikea Cushion Hack. Such a simple idea, - [Discover Tasmania's South with Love Swah](https://loveswah.com/discover-tasmanias-south-with-love-swah/) - I used a Go Pro for the first time during my fantastic trip to Tasmania and here is the result! It's a great little video that sums up the gorgeous scenery, delicious food and near-perfect weather (except the storm... more on that later) that we experienced in Southern Tasmania. Part 1 of my Tasmania guide - [Super Easy 5 Ingredients or Less Dessert Recipes](https://loveswah.com/super-easy-5-ingredients-or-less-dessert-recipes/) - Delicious desserts don't necessarily need to have multiple complicated steps, lengthy hours in the kitchen or loads of ingredients. I'm a big fan of having a solid set of simple recipes that cleverly use 5 or less ingredients that produce tasty results. And there's not a box of cake mix in sight in this round up! - [Mother's Day Gift Ideas](https://loveswah.com/mothers-day-gift-ideas/) - It's Mother's Day next Sunday, and whether you serve her breakfast in bed or post her a bunch of flowers from abroad, it's important to let her know you're thinking of her. Mum's are the best! If you're a bit stuck for an idea, here's 9 of my favourite mum-friendly gift suggestions that are sure - [Never Stop Learning: Places around Australia to learn a new hobby or up skill at work](https://loveswah.com/never-stop-learning-places-around-australia-to-learn-a-new-hobby-or-up-skill-at-work/) - I love to learn. I have a bachelor's degree in Digital Media, a diploma in Graphic Design and Communication, plus I have completed courses in film production, jewellery making, food photography, pattern drafting and terrarium building (!) Whilst a lot of these courses went towards improving my skill set at work or for the blog, - [Dark Tourism: Challenging but important places to visit](https://loveswah.com/dark-tourism-challenging-but-important-places-to-visit/) - For me, travel isn't just about relaxation and comfort. It's about learning, challenging yourself and discovering more about the world we live in. It's easy to gloss over a country's tragic past by sipping $5 cocktails at the hotel pool, but I think it's important we visit these historical sites to learn from our past. - [Creative Fridays: An Interview with Tara Galuska](https://loveswah.com/creative-fridays-an-interview-with-tara-galuska/) - Tara is a Vancouver-based artist who creates everything from illustrations to jewellery and sculpture. She loves featuring cats and food in her work so obviously I'm a huge fan. Welcome Tara! (photo credit Michele Mateus) Hello! Who are you and what do you do? Hello to you too! I am Tara Galuska and I rescue blank - [Can't afford a big trip? Book micro-holidays to satisfy your wanderlust](https://loveswah.com/cant-afford-a-big-trip-book-micro-holidays-to-satisfy-your-wanderlust/) - I don't know about you, but if I don't have a holiday booked in the near future I go a little mad. My sense of wanderlust will never be cured (and I'm ok with that) and no matter how many times I explore the world, I'll want to go back again and again. But sometimes - [Travel Tips For Visiting Developing Countries](https://loveswah.com/travel-tips-for-visiting-developing-countries/) - I have had so many amazing, life changing experiences in developing countries that I wouldn't change for the world. Some of these experiences were quite confronting at the time (hello Chinese squat toilets!) but they are the very reason why I travel - to challenge myself, to learn and to experience new and amazing things. If your - [6 of the best Wordpress Plugins for your Blog](https://loveswah.com/6-of-the-best-wordpress-plugins-for-your-blog/) - This is my ultimate list of the best Wordpress plugins (in my opinion) that will benefit your blog. From preventing spam to backing up your blog or speeding up your site, these plugins make blogging a hell of a lot more easy! Whether you're a newbie blogger or have been blogging for years, it's never - [Creative Fridays: An Interview with Jennifer Jenner](https://loveswah.com/creative-fridays-an-interview-with-jennifer-jenner/) - Jennifer (known to most as JJ) was one of the first food bloggers I befriended years and years ago. Since then we've worked together on various projects, drunk lots of tea together and spent an inordinate amount of time gossiping. Welcome JJ! Hello! Who are you and what do you do? Hi there! I'm JJ, a food - [The Best Websites for Booking Travel to Save You Time and Money!](https://loveswah.com/the-best-websites-for-booking-the-cheapest-travel/) - It never ceases to amaze me how many people book the first flight/hotel price they find online without even considering alternative options or the additional fees a lot of sites add on. These are my top 5 sites I visit every time I am booking a holiday, and I always know I have found the best deal. - [Travel Guide: Shanghai, China](https://loveswah.com/travel-guide-shanghai-china/) - Where to stay If you've only got a few days in Shanghai, location is key. I stayed on Nanjing Rd, right on the pedestrian street section. The street is bustling with international shopping, ladies dancing and doing tai chi, and is easy walking distance to both People's Square and East Nanjing Rd subway stations. Luxe: - [Flower Power: Botanical Patterns by Cocorrina](https://loveswah.com/flower-power-botanical-patterns-by-cocorrina/) - I recently stumbled across the amazing blog Cocorinna, a graphic designer who shares her recent works, gorgeous photos and an insight into her freelance life. I fell completely in love with her stunning floral arrangements in her Botanical Patterns series. She has definitely inspired me to start my own self-initiated projects! I need to get the - [Creative Fridays: An Interview with Genna Alexopoulos from Super Duper](https://loveswah.com/creative-fridays-an-interview-with-genna-alexopoulos-from-super-duper/) - Genna is a super duper amazing PR gal (get it?!) who I got to know well after designing her new website. Since launching her own company, her career is going from strength to strength! Hello! Who are you and what do you do? Hi there! I'm Genna and I'm a music/lifestyle publicist and own a - [7 Tropical Holiday Destinations Under 7 Hours](https://loveswah.com/7-tropical-holiday-destinations-under-7-hours/) - I am desperately in need of a relaxing holiday. I must admit the concept of a restful holiday is new to me, usually I want to cram as much adventure, culture, history, shopping and food into one trip. But I'm tired and getting old and just want to chill. And since the purpose of this - [Creative Fridays: An Interview with Amy Arthurs](https://loveswah.com/creative-fridays-an-interview-with-amy-arthurs/) - Amy was one of the first bloggers I made friends with online when I started blogging, and I instantly fell in love with her Oh, My Design Blog. She is also a super talented graphic designer and all round nice gal. Welcome, Amy! Hello! Who are you and what do you do? Hi! I'm Amy and I'm - [Travel Guide: Xitang, China](https://loveswah.com/travel-guide-xitang-china/) - After experiencing the hustle and bustle of Shanghai I highly suggest you take a day to venture out to Xitang. Xitang is an Ancient Water Town located 90km from Shanghai. Filled with narrow cobbled streets, picturesque old bridges over canals and traditional buildings, this charming town is a way to experience traditional China. Oh and - [Creative Fridays: An Interview with Alana Dimou](https://loveswah.com/creative-fridays-an-interview-with-alana-dimou/) - Alana is a super amazing photographer, occasional fancy cake maker, friend and responsible for my lovely profile picture (thanks!) Hello! Who are you and what do you do? Hello! I'm Alana, part-time in social media and part-time food and lifestyle photographer. What work are you most proud of to date? I recently worked on a - [Creative Fridays: An Interview with Bianca Virtue](https://loveswah.com/creative-fridays-an-interview-with-bianca-virtue/) - I stumbled upon Bianca on Instagram one day and was immediately drawn to her simplistic, elegant food styling. Hello! Who are you and what do you do? Hi there, I am Bianca, I’d like to think I am a stylist of all trades. From interiors to events and through to my favourite food! What work - [Creative Fridays: An Interview with Nadia Felsch](https://loveswah.com/creative-fridays-an-interview-with-nadia-felsch/) - I'm so pleased to share with you today an interview from the lovely Nadia Felsch, a wellness warrior who loves sharing her inspiration and down-to-earth advice. Hello! Who are you and what do you do? Greetings Swah & her wonderful fans! I'm Nadia a 29 year-old Sydney-sider, devoted and quite literally obsessed with providing information - [Qantas Domestic Dinner Boxes](https://loveswah.com/qantas-domestic-dinner-boxes/) - I must admit I've never been a fan of airline food, to the point that I'd rather go hungry then risk the cold bread roll and mystery meat. So when Qantas invited me to sample their new Domestic Dinner Boxes, I was cautiously optimistic! Qantas promises their new menu will bring improved quality, more generous - [Creative Fridays: An Interview with Sarah Coates from The Sugar Hit](https://loveswah.com/creative-fridays-an-interview-with-sarah-coates-from-the-sugar-hit/) - Today's featured creative is a wonderful woman who regularly makes me salivate at her drool-worthy and impeccably shot recipes. Welcome, Sarah! Hello! Who are you and what do you do? I'm Sarah Coates, the food obsessed madwoman behind The Sugar Hit. I develop, style, shoot, edit, design and post every single thang that goes up - [Creative Fridays: An Interview with Jayne Gorman of Girl Tweets World](https://loveswah.com/creative-fridays-an-interview-with-jayne-gorman-of-girl-tweets-world/) - Hi everyone! I am so excited to introduce a new weekly column called Creative Fridays. Each week I will share a round up of my favourite projects or interviews with bloggers, creatives and small business owners from the design, travel and food industries. It's my opportunity to share with my readers what and who is inspiring - [The joys of overbooked flights](https://loveswah.com/the-joys-of-overbooked-flights/) - I know overbooking happens on flights a LOT. Up until now I have never had to deal with it. I booked and paid for my Sydney - Tokyo (direct) flight in April. I received a call from my airline this afternoon (6 days prior to take-off) advising they had overbooked my flight and I would - [Donate to Japan: The Postcard Series](https://loveswah.com/donate-to-japan-the-postcard-series/) - My heart is breaking for Japan, I was only just there in December, falling in love with an amazing country. I had the pleasure of meeting up with Eloise from Catkin and Teasel whilst in Tokyo - she is selling gorgeous sets of 6 postcards to raise money for the Australian Red Cross, who are - [Cities around the world - My favourites (and the overrated)](https://loveswah.com/cities-around-the-world-my-favourites-and-the-overrated/) - After sitting down and having a good think in response to the question "What are your 3 favourite cities in the whole world" I think I have settled on my top 3. I am sure as soon as I have posted this I will be madly apologising to Stockholm, Melbourne and Kyoto for neglecting them. - [Pinterest Baking Inspiration](https://loveswah.com/pinterest-baking-inspiration/) - Pinterest has always been a huge source for inspiration of design and interior ideas, and lately I been discovering awesome baking ideas including glow in the dark cupcakes (omg) and piñata cupcakes (genius). These Glow in the Dark Cupcakes by Recipe Snobs are brilliant. They are achieved by incorporating tonic water into the icing. The quinine in the tonic water causes - [Jessica Hische designs the Penguin Drop Cap series](https://loveswah.com/jessica-hische-designs-the-penguin-drop-cap-series/) - I've spoken of my love for Jessica Hische before and was super excited to hear she has collaborated with Paul Buckley (the Penguin Art Director) to produce a series of Penguin book covers featuring an illustrated drop cap designed by Jessica. Each book will also have “a foil-stamped paper-over-board case and a decorative color stain on all three edges.” - [Vietnam via Instagram](https://loveswah.com/vietnam-via-instagram/) - Hello everyone I am home! I had a wonderful time in Vietnam and took over 1000 photos (!!) Whilst I sort through those, I will share with you some Instagram snaps I took to give you a little taste of my trip. Highlights included: ♥ Floating down the Mekong delta in a rickety boat, wearing - [Wanderlust: Inspiring Travel Videos](https://loveswah.com/wanderlust-inspiring-travel-videos/) - I've been seeing some amazing travel videos springing up on Vimeo lately and have been bookmarking each to share them with you. They sure are giving me itchy feet to explore the world again! I'm excited my new camera has HD video - I am looking forward to creating travel and food videos in the - [Designing my first iPad magazine - Truly Malaysian](https://loveswah.com/designing-my-first-ipad-magazine-truly-malaysian/) - A few months ago I was approached by JJ from 84th & 3rd to see if I wanted to design a new iPad magazine that Jackie M was launching on Malaysian food and travel. I jumped at the chance - I've designed several print magazines before but I've never created an app and was dying to - [Welcome!](https://loveswah.com/hello-world/) - Hi everyone and welcome to the blog Love Swah. What is Love Swah, I hear you ask? It is a blog dedicated to life's pleasures- travelling to far away places, baking delicious sweet treats and all things design (graphic, fashion, interior, jewellery, you name it!) Travel I am completely obsessed with travel. I've visited 27 ## Pages - [Disclosure & Privacy Policy](https://loveswah.com/about/disclosure-privacy-policy/) - Disclosure: This blog is a personal blog written and edited by me. For any questions about this blog, please contact me. Any financial compensation or free products received will always disclosed clearly on this blog. The compensation received will never influence the content, topics or posts made in this blog. All advertising is in the form - [Recipe Index](https://loveswah.com/recipe-index/) - Biscuits/Cookies [riview id=157 num=2000 orderby=title order=asc showtitle=always lightbox=0] Breakfast/Snacks [riview id=165 num=2000 orderby=title order=asc showtitle=always lightbox=0] Cakes [riview id=156 num=2000 orderby=title order=asc showtitle=always lightbox=0] Chilled Desserts [riview id=162 num=2000 orderby=title order=asc showtitle=always lightbox=0] Cupcakes [riview id=28 num=2000 orderby=title order=asc showtitle=always lightbox=0] Donuts [riview id=166 num=2000 orderby=title order=asc showtitle=always lightbox=0] Drinks [riview id=164 num=2000 orderby=title order=asc - [Work with Me](https://loveswah.com/work-with-me/) - Ways We Can Work Together Recipe development and food photography Sponsored posts Brand partnerships Product reviews that relate to food or travel Press trips Freelance writing food and travel writing For more information and my latest site stats, please email me for my Media Kit. For paid opportunities, please email my wonderful agent Shideh at info@talent2post.com and - [Contact](https://loveswah.com/contact/) - Got a travel question, a recipe suggestion or just want to say hi? Fill in the form below! Please note I am not currently accepting any guest posts. For paid opportunities, please email my wonderful agent Shideh at info@talent2post.com and for contra opportunities please email me direct on hello@loveswah.com - [About](https://loveswah.com/about/) - Love Swah is a blog dedicated to life’s pleasures - baking, travel and design. Featuring delicious dessert recipes and baking tips, personalised travel guides for the savvy young traveller and design tutorials, Love Swah is an online hub created to inspire and inform you. About the Founder Hi there! My name is Sarah, but most - [Travel Guides](https://loveswah.com/travel-guides/) - Africa [riview id=224 num=2000 orderby=title order=asc size=140x140 showtitle=always lightbox=0] Asia [riview id=219 num=2000 orderby=title order=asc size=140x140 showtitle=always lightbox=0] Australia [riview id=221 num=2000 orderby=title order=asc size=140x140 showtitle=always lightbox=0] Europe [riview id=222 num=2000 orderby=title order=asc size=140x140 showtitle=always lightbox=0] South Pacific [riview id=223 num=2000 orderby=title order=asc size=140x140 showtitle=always lightbox=0] USA & Canada [riview id=220 num=2000 orderby=title order=asc size=140x140 - [Recipes](https://loveswah.com/recipes/) - Cakes ♥ Carrot Cake with Coconut Cream Cheese Icing ♥ Dark Chocolate Cake ♥ Dark Chocolate Guinness Cake with Baileys Cream Cheese Icing ♥ Ferrero Rocher Cake with Nutella Buttercream ♥ Flourless Chocolate Cake ♥ Nutella Cheesecake Cupcakes ♥ Brownie Cupcakes with Strawberry Santa Hats ♥ Chai Cupcakes ♥ Champagne Cupcakes with Strawberry Filling ♥ Chili Chocolate Cupcakes ♥ Chocolate Peanut Butter - [Travel Tips](https://loveswah.com/travel-tips/) - ♥ Beating the post-holiday blues ♥ Checklist - before you leave ♥ Footwear when travelling - what to pack ♥ Group Travel vs Solo Adventure ♥ How to eat cheaply on holidays ♥ How to stay healthy on a trip (and not come back 10kg heavier!) ♥ How to survive a long-haul flight ♥ Knowing when to travel – take note ## Categories - [Travel](https://loveswah.com/category/travel/) - [Design](https://loveswah.com/category/design/) - [Inspiration](https://loveswah.com/category/inspiration/) - [Food](https://loveswah.com/category/food/) - [Recipes](https://loveswah.com/category/recipes/) - [Restaurant Reviews](https://loveswah.com/category/food/restaurant-reviews/) - [Cupcakes](https://loveswah.com/category/recipes/cupcakes/) - [Lifestyle](https://loveswah.com/category/lifestyle/) - [Cakes](https://loveswah.com/category/recipes/cakes/) - [Biscuits/Cookies](https://loveswah.com/category/recipes/biscuits-cookies/) - [Slices/Pies/Tarts](https://loveswah.com/category/recipes/slices-pies-tarts/) - [Spreads/Dips/Sauces](https://loveswah.com/category/recipes/spreads-dips-sauces/) - [Sweets](https://loveswah.com/category/recipes/sweets/) - [Single Serve](https://loveswah.com/category/recipes/single-serve/) - [Chilled Desserts](https://loveswah.com/category/recipes/chilled-desserts/) - [Drinks](https://loveswah.com/category/recipes/drinks/) - [Breakfast/Snacks](https://loveswah.com/category/recipes/breakfast-snacks/) - [Donuts](https://loveswah.com/category/recipes/donuts-recipes/) - [Meringues](https://loveswah.com/category/recipes/meringues/) - [Asia](https://loveswah.com/category/travel/asia/) - [USA & Canada](https://loveswah.com/category/travel/usa-canada/) - [Australia](https://loveswah.com/category/travel/australia/) - [Europe](https://loveswah.com/category/travel/europe/) - [South Pacific](https://loveswah.com/category/travel/south-pacific/) - [Africa](https://loveswah.com/category/travel/africa/) - [Middle East](https://loveswah.com/category/travel/middle-east/) - [Savoury](https://loveswah.com/category/recipes/savoury/) - [In the Air](https://loveswah.com/category/travel/in-the-air/) - [South America](https://loveswah.com/category/travel/south-america/) ## Tags - [Interior Decorating](https://loveswah.com/tag/interior-decorating/) - [Christmas](https://loveswah.com/tag/christmas/) - [Easter](https://loveswah.com/tag/easter/) - [30 before 30](https://loveswah.com/tag/30-before-30/) - [Dairy Free](https://loveswah.com/tag/dairy-free/) - [Chocolate](https://loveswah.com/tag/chocolate/) - [cats](https://loveswah.com/tag/cats-2/) - [healthy](https://loveswah.com/tag/healthy-2/) - [instagram](https://loveswah.com/tag/instagram-2/) - [drinks](https://loveswah.com/tag/drinks-2/) - [girls in design](https://loveswah.com/tag/girls-in-design-2/) - [weekends away](https://loveswah.com/tag/weekends-away/) - [Sweet adventures blog hop](https://loveswah.com/tag/sweet-adventures-blog-hop-2/) - [cake pops](https://loveswah.com/tag/cake-pops/) - [America](https://loveswah.com/tag/america/) - [San Francisco](https://loveswah.com/tag/san-francisco/) - [Eating abroad](https://loveswah.com/tag/eating-abroad/) - [Los Angeles](https://loveswah.com/tag/los-angeles/) - [cake](https://loveswah.com/tag/cake/) - [ombre](https://loveswah.com/tag/ombre/) - [porridge](https://loveswah.com/tag/porridge/) - [breakfast](https://loveswah.com/tag/breakfast/) - [cheesecake](https://loveswah.com/tag/cheesecake/) - [salted caramel](https://loveswah.com/tag/salted-caramel/) - [tim tams](https://loveswah.com/tag/tim-tams/) - [banana](https://loveswah.com/tag/banana/) - [Nutella](https://loveswah.com/tag/nutella/) - [muffins](https://loveswah.com/tag/muffins/) - [raspberry](https://loveswah.com/tag/raspberry/) - [strawberry](https://loveswah.com/tag/strawberry/) - [bread](https://loveswah.com/tag/bread/) - [White chocolate](https://loveswah.com/tag/white-chocolate/) - [popping candy](https://loveswah.com/tag/popping-candy/) - [vegan](https://loveswah.com/tag/vegan/) - [mousse](https://loveswah.com/tag/mousse/) - [Pancakes](https://loveswah.com/tag/pancakes/) - [fudge](https://loveswah.com/tag/fudge/) - [hazelnut](https://loveswah.com/tag/hazelnut/) - [pomegranate](https://loveswah.com/tag/pomegranate/) - [tea](https://loveswah.com/tag/tea/) - [single serve recipe](https://loveswah.com/tag/single-serve-recipe/) - [donuts](https://loveswah.com/tag/donuts/) - [jam](https://loveswah.com/tag/jam/) - [slices](https://loveswah.com/tag/slices/) - [cookies](https://loveswah.com/tag/cookies/) - [coffee](https://loveswah.com/tag/coffee/) - [tarts](https://loveswah.com/tag/tarts/) - [Pavlova](https://loveswah.com/tag/pavlova/) - [passionfruit](https://loveswah.com/tag/passionfruit/) - [kiwi](https://loveswah.com/tag/kiwi/) - [Australian](https://loveswah.com/tag/australian/) - [dulce de leche](https://loveswah.com/tag/dulce-de-leche/) - [apple](https://loveswah.com/tag/apple/) - [walnut](https://loveswah.com/tag/walnut/) - [gluten free](https://loveswah.com/tag/gluten-free/) - [biscuits](https://loveswah.com/tag/biscuits/) - [coconut](https://loveswah.com/tag/coconut/) - [macaroons](https://loveswah.com/tag/macaroons/) - [boozy](https://loveswah.com/tag/boozy/) - [red velvet](https://loveswah.com/tag/red-velvet/) - [Pies](https://loveswah.com/tag/pies/) - [pretzel](https://loveswah.com/tag/pretzel/) - [chai](https://loveswah.com/tag/chai/) - [peanut butter](https://loveswah.com/tag/peanut-butter/) - [St Patricks Day](https://loveswah.com/tag/st-patricks-day/) - [ginger](https://loveswah.com/tag/ginger/) - [popcorn](https://loveswah.com/tag/popcorn/) - [high tea](https://loveswah.com/tag/high-tea/) - [ice cream](https://loveswah.com/tag/ice-cream/) - [lime](https://loveswah.com/tag/lime/) - [truffles](https://loveswah.com/tag/truffles/) - [candy cane](https://loveswah.com/tag/candy-cane/) - [guest post](https://loveswah.com/tag/guest-post/) - [orange](https://loveswah.com/tag/orange/) - [pumpkin](https://loveswah.com/tag/pumpkin/) - [halloween](https://loveswah.com/tag/halloween/) - [protein balls](https://loveswah.com/tag/protein-balls/) - [cashew](https://loveswah.com/tag/cashew/) - [microwave mug cakes](https://loveswah.com/tag/microwave-mug-cakes/) - [marshmallow](https://loveswah.com/tag/marshmallow/) - [rosewater](https://loveswah.com/tag/rosewater/) - [pistachio](https://loveswah.com/tag/pistachio/) - [pineapple](https://loveswah.com/tag/pineapple/) - [brownies](https://loveswah.com/tag/brownies/) - [carrot](https://loveswah.com/tag/carrot/) - [Adelaide](https://loveswah.com/tag/adelaide/) - [Melbourne](https://loveswah.com/tag/melbourne/) - [creme brulee](https://loveswah.com/tag/creme-brulee/) - [macarons](https://loveswah.com/tag/macarons/) - [lemon](https://loveswah.com/tag/lemon/) - [vanilla](https://loveswah.com/tag/vanilla/) - [caramel](https://loveswah.com/tag/caramel/) - [macadamias](https://loveswah.com/tag/macadamias/) - [typography](https://loveswah.com/tag/typography/) - [Vietnam](https://loveswah.com/tag/vietnam/) - [Travel tips](https://loveswah.com/tag/travel-tips/) - [Tasmania](https://loveswah.com/tag/tasmania/) - [Creative Fridays](https://loveswah.com/tag/creative-fridays/) - [Queensland](https://loveswah.com/tag/queensland/) - [qantas](https://loveswah.com/tag/qantas/) - [travel](https://loveswah.com/tag/travel-2/) - [hot chocolate](https://loveswah.com/tag/hot-chocolate/) - [China](https://loveswah.com/tag/china/) - [Asia](https://loveswah.com/tag/asia/) - [Waffles](https://loveswah.com/tag/waffles/) - [Sydney](https://loveswah.com/tag/sydney/) - [brunch](https://loveswah.com/tag/brunch/) - [graphic design](https://loveswah.com/tag/graphic-design/) - [fonts](https://loveswah.com/tag/fonts/) - [Las Vegas](https://loveswah.com/tag/las-vegas/) - [eton mess](https://loveswah.com/tag/eton-mess/) - [baking](https://loveswah.com/tag/baking/) - [tips](https://loveswah.com/tag/tips/) - [cranberry](https://loveswah.com/tag/cranberry/) - [Homewares](https://loveswah.com/tag/homewares/) - [tropical](https://loveswah.com/tag/tropical/) - [south pacific](https://loveswah.com/tag/south-pacific/) - [blog tips](https://loveswah.com/tag/blog-tips/) - [cambodia](https://loveswah.com/tag/cambodia/) - [tutorial](https://loveswah.com/tag/tutorial/) - [dark chocolate](https://loveswah.com/tag/dark-chocolate/) - [cocktail](https://loveswah.com/tag/cocktail/) - [africa](https://loveswah.com/tag/africa/) - [DIY](https://loveswah.com/tag/diy/) - [new caledonia](https://loveswah.com/tag/new-caledonia/) - [mothers day](https://loveswah.com/tag/mothers-day/) - [gift guide](https://loveswah.com/tag/gift-guide/) - [5 ingredients or less](https://loveswah.com/tag/5-ingredients-or-less/) - [Recipe round up](https://loveswah.com/tag/recipe-round-up/) - [new orleans](https://loveswah.com/tag/new-orleans/) - [taiwan](https://loveswah.com/tag/taiwan/) - [blueberry](https://loveswah.com/tag/blueberry/) - [american](https://loveswah.com/tag/american/) - [pretzels](https://loveswah.com/tag/pretzels/) - [frozen](https://loveswah.com/tag/frozen/) - [australia](https://loveswah.com/tag/australia/) - [business](https://loveswah.com/tag/business/) - [entrepreneur](https://loveswah.com/tag/entrepreneur/) - [conferences](https://loveswah.com/tag/conferences/) - [Cupcakes](https://loveswah.com/tag/cupcakes/) - [s'more](https://loveswah.com/tag/smore/) - [Newcastle](https://loveswah.com/tag/newcastle/) - [NSW](https://loveswah.com/tag/nsw/) - [microwave](https://loveswah.com/tag/microwave/) - [wordpress](https://loveswah.com/tag/wordpress/) - [Dubai](https://loveswah.com/tag/dubai/) - [Singapore](https://loveswah.com/tag/singapore/) - [Green tea](https://loveswah.com/tag/green-tea/) - [Chinese](https://loveswah.com/tag/chinese/) - [Valentines Day](https://loveswah.com/tag/valentines-day/) - [No bake](https://loveswah.com/tag/no-bake/) - [Craft](https://loveswah.com/tag/craft/) - [Kaya](https://loveswah.com/tag/kaya/) - [Hong Kong](https://loveswah.com/tag/hong-kong/) - [Hotel review](https://loveswah.com/tag/hotel-review/) - [adventure](https://loveswah.com/tag/adventure/) - [seasonal](https://loveswah.com/tag/seasonal/) - [Asian](https://loveswah.com/tag/asian/) - [Savoury](https://loveswah.com/tag/savoury/) - [Italian](https://loveswah.com/tag/italian/) - [Canberra](https://loveswah.com/tag/canberra/) - [France](https://loveswah.com/tag/france/) - [pastry](https://loveswah.com/tag/pastry/) - [Bangkok](https://loveswah.com/tag/bangkok/) - [Thailand](https://loveswah.com/tag/thailand/) - [vegetarian](https://loveswah.com/tag/vegetarian/) - [Tamworth](https://loveswah.com/tag/tamworth/) - [Soup](https://loveswah.com/tag/soup/) - [Bali](https://loveswah.com/tag/bali/) - [Indonesia](https://loveswah.com/tag/indonesia/) - [Spain](https://loveswah.com/tag/spain/) - [Barcelona](https://loveswah.com/tag/barcelona/) - [Dessert](https://loveswah.com/tag/dessert/) - [Europe](https://loveswah.com/tag/europe/) - [Prague](https://loveswah.com/tag/prague/) - [Czech Republic](https://loveswah.com/tag/czech-republic/) - [Pregnancy](https://loveswah.com/tag/pregnancy/) - [Babymoon](https://loveswah.com/tag/babymoon/) - [Japan](https://loveswah.com/tag/japan/) - [Travel with Kids](https://loveswah.com/tag/travel-with-kids/)