Today I’ll be baking dark chocolate cupcakes with delicious Mexican Chocolate Sugar from Beautiful Briny Sea, makers of this and other great kitchen enhancers like Beautiful Dreamer Rose Sugar, Pocketful Starlight Vanilla Sugar, Orange Chili Sugar, Mr. Gigglepants Hibiscus Sugar, salts, and so much more.

Before getting started, I used the adorable wooden scoop included in each package and scooped some straight into my mouth (because science). Right after thinking, “this is delicious, mmmm chocolate…” I felt the punch of the chili! This blend also includes allspice and cinnamon for a depth of flavor that is truly scrumptious.

To make the cupcakes, I (mostly) followed this recipe from Smitten Kitchen, a cooking blog I adore.

I got out all the ingredients ahead of time like they do on cooking shows to make everything look so quick and simple. Here’s the spread. I was able to find everything I needed at Kroger- I opted for the Hershey’s Special Dark Cocoa (which is only partially “Dutch” as the recipe recommends) as well as Ghiradelli 60% cacao for the chocolate chips (used on the candied orange rind) and chocolate bar (for the frosting). Come to find out you really only need to buy one or the other as there is enough chocolate in one bag/ bar for both, but I found I wasn’t that frustrated by having the extra chocolate. I recommend the chocolate chips for their easy meltability.

Yes, of course I used the little wooden scoop to measure out my sugar! Its so cute.

I changed the recipe a bit here and used only ½ cup dark brown sugar and replaced the rest with ¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons of the Mexican Chocolate sugar. I’m hoping this is enough to taste the chili flavor. I’ll add some to the butter cream frosting, too.

So now I attempt to “cream” the butter and sugars. If you were also raised with the internet, this feels like it takes forever. Not being blessed with a Kitchen Aid mixer myself, once my rotator cuffs started burning, I decided it was “creamed” enough.

Here’s the batter after adding the eggs and buttermilk. She warns that it may look uneven, and it does.

I don’t have a sifter as the recipe recommends, so I just added the dry ingredients to a bowl, stirred with a spoon, and said a prayer. Also, things got really messy really fast.

After I had the batter mixed, I added another scoop of the sugar because that little wooden scoop is just too much fun.

I ended up with 11 cupcakes instead of the 12 the recipe said I would get. This may or may not have to do with quality control measures I’d taken along the way to be sure the batter was up to par. I also found that a ¼ measuring cup was the perfect tool for measuring the batter into each cup. I started with the minimum baking time of 25 minutes, and a toothpick came out clean after this.

While the cupcakes were baking I started the buttercream frosting. I melted the chocolate in a microwave safe bowl, 30 seconds at a time. I also added a magical scoop of the Mexican Chocolate sugar. This is the best frosting I have ever made.

Here they are after coming out of the oven. Unfortunately they aren’t nice and tall like I hoped, but that’s what the frosting is for, right?

Now I ain’t no plain jane boring cupcake maker so I knew these cupcakes needed a little pizzaz and literal eye candy so I’m topping them with some chocolate dipped candied orange peel. I used this recipe from Giada De Laurentiis. I made these while the cupcakes cooled, something I would never allow in a non-professional environment. Basically, you peel the orange, then put them through a quick series of hot and cold baths. Then I boiled them in a simple syrup bath I made using the Mexican Chocolate sugar.

Here they are after taking them out of the final sugar bath. The Mexican Chocolate sugar is brown, of course, which doesn’t make them look super appetizing, but they smell absolutely amazing. I’m not even sure they need the chocolate dipping part. But lets not get hasty.

While the orange peels cooled, I frosted the cupcakes. I divided the frosting evenly over each cupcake before smoothing out. Since I don’t own a piping bag, I used the more free form technique of offset spatula. Also, turns out “generous” is a relative term and although the recipe promises this is enough frosting for a generous amount, I could have dealt with a tad more, myself.

These orange peels turned out so good. Like sooooooooo good. These would be such a great addition to any treat, and are amazing even on their own. Unique, chewy, full of fresh and rich flavor. Make them.

The cupcakes are… rich. Dark. Creamy. Slightly warm from the chili. Add a citrus punch from the candied orange and you have a winner. My husband described them as having “vibrant flavors.” Marla, one of our staff members who reaped the benefits of this project said “the orange peel was my favorite part, I loved the sweet and spicy combination!” My toddler described them as… just kidding I definitely didn’t give one to my kid. His day will come.

Thanks for cooking with me! I just might do a whole series on cupcakes made from Beautiful Briny Sea sugars because, you know, I get to eat cupcakes! And these sugars are so unique and fun to work with, you feel like your baking something really special. Please let me know if you happen to try out the recipe, I’d love to see your pics and hear your opinions!

Until next time, friends!

Homespun’s calendar is filling up! Our summer is a celebration of makers in every way: art galleries, craft shows, maker empowerment (aka How to Run an Etsy Shop) and classes that turn YOU into a maker for an hour or maybe even a lifetime. Click here to see a full calendar of events, or scroll on through these beautiful new products and find what inspires your inner creator/ maker.

New

Richwood Creations brought us this CUTE new Lazy Susan and we are all totally smitten.

Home Ec. has restocked us with some jams. If you can’t see, they read “Pear Hazelnut Conserve” and “Cherry Amaretto.” Yeah. You’re gonna wanna try that. We also have a restock of these beautiful soaps from Teehaus. Next, we have an egg carton full of little crocheted cacti. Like, where else in Indy will you finding something as cute at this? Made by Part Time Hooker. I also picked out these little button earrings from Nicole’s Threads as a bright little bit of happiness on the shelf. We have a lot of button earrings, and I believe if you look closely, you will find some that are just for you!

What We’re Wearing

I just can’t get over how perfect these bolos are by Salame Jewelry Designs. Who would have thought you could dress up a tank top with a bolo? And yet… perfection. Dress by Nicole’s Threads, tank by Terz Ink. and purse by LM Products.

What We’re Loving

Amy isn’t the only one here obsessed with The Page, a new bag from People for Urban Progress. Amy loves it because its “compact, structured, recycled, well crafted and super stylish!” Yep, all that in just one bag. Sweet.

Candle Maker Pop-Up Bar with The Onyx Exchange: Sunday, May 1st, 11am-6pm: Just in time for Mothers’ Day…! Our next Candle Maker Pop-up Bar with The Onyx Exchange is happening Sunday, May 1st. Stop in and create a perfect, spring-scented 7oz. Lux Candle or 10oz. Wine Bottle Candle for your dear mama (or bring her in to make her own!). Choose from 36 scents or mix multiple.

First Friday Celebration: Friday, May 6th, 6-9pm: For the months of May and June, Homespun will be showing the work of artist Soulaf Abas. Soulaf was born and raised in Syria, where she first began studying art before completing her BFA (and later, her MFA) at Indiana State University. Having traveled to many countries and participated in a number of symposiums, workshops, and exhibitions overseas, she’s now a professor in her alma mater’s art department. Her work involves oil painting, printmaking, watercolor, and more.

Calligraphy Pop-Up Bar with No. 18 Paper Co.: Saturday, May 7th, 10am-2pm: Tell Mom exactly how you feel with an artfully hand-written message from the pros at No. 18 Paper Co.! From 10am – 2pm, they’ll be set up in our store to offer the following services:

– Calligraphy name on evelope ($1)
– Create-a-card station: they supply the cards and greetings to choose from; you pick the color (or customize!) ($6)
– Calligraphy quote art prints, custom and pre-made (starting at $25). You come up with the words, they’ll handle the writing for the perfect Mother’s Day gift collaboration.

Workshop: Pinot & Paws: Paint Your Pet: Thursday, May 12th, 6-8pm: Pets. They’re the family we choose. If you’re a dog or cat (or any animal, really) person, you understand the important role pets play in our lives. For many of us, our beloved pets are like our children, loving us unconditionally and loyally. Here’s your chance to immortalize your beloved Fido or Whiskers: instructor Deanna Leonard of Arcadian Design will be hosting a “Paint Your Pet” workshop at our store. Students will create a portrait from a favorite photograph with acrylic paint to cherish for years to come. Plus, we’ll have snacks and wine on hand for a full artist experience.

Workshop: How to Run an Etsy Shop: Saturday, May 28th, 1-4pm: re you a new maker, wondering how to get started in the world of online sales? Or, do you already have an Etsy store that you’re ready to take to the next level? Tamara Hoffbauer of Decorative Design Works will be hosting this Etsy Success workshop on Saturday, February 27th for both beginner and intermediate Etsy sellers, as well as those who do not yet have an Etsy shop. Her goal is to provide Etsy sellers with tools and tips to set them on the path to business success. Topics covered include best practices, pricing, presentation, crafting the ideal listing, SEO explained, research tools, time-saving techniques, and more. A complete workbook is provided with the class along with worksheets and templates. No special materials are required – just bring pen and paper and the desire to take your Etsy business to the next level!

INDIEana Handicraft Exchange: Saturday, June 11th, 12-8pm: Bringing contemporary craft to Indy since 2007! Located at the Harrison Center for the Arts.

Etsy Craft Party 2016: Friday, June 17th, 6-8pm: Stay tuned for more information about this event!

Workshop: Mixed Media Junk Journal: Friday, July 8th, 6-8pm: Do you ever feel like you have artists’ block? Maybe you’re an out-of-practice creative wanting to get back in the habit? Perhaps you have the creative spark, but you’re not sure where to start? We’re here to help! Join our Mixed Media Junk Journal Workshop to get your creative juices flowing. Play and explore design ideas through a variety of materials and mediums. Participants will first create a handmade book from recycled materials, found papers, or ephemera. Next, instructor Tori Weyers will guide participants through creating a mixed media spread using various paints, inks, pencils, crayons, washi tape, stencils, marks, graphite, and more.

Workshop: Wire Wrapping Basics: Saturday, July 23rd, 1-4pm: Have you ever wanted to go on a gem hunt? Well, here is your chance! Rana Salame Striedinger of Salame Jewelry Designs is opening her treasure chest of gemstones for you to peruse and select from to create your own one-of-a-kind jewelry. Students will learn several wire wrapping and jewelry assembly techniques to create two unique items – students can choose to make a pair of earrings and a necklace, two pairs of earrings, or two necklaces.

Workshop: Succulent Terrarium: Saturday, August 13th, 1-2:30pm: Low-maintenance, lovely, and easy to assemble: succulent terrariums are the perfect spring project to bring some green back into your world. Join Rana Salame in our shop as she shares her expertise in basic succulent cutting, rooting, and plant care. This class is great for beginners and open to children, too – one child and one caregiver together may purchase a ticket. Please note: one ticket is worth one terrarium – if you would like to made additional terrariums, please be sure to purchase additional tickets.

See ya next week, friends!

I can personally vouch for the amazingly high level of declicious-ness to be found in these seemingly unassuming jars of almond butter. My personal favorite, the Super Spread, consists of dry roasted almonds, ground golden flaxseeds, organic hemp protein, chia seeds, coconut oil, raw vanilla bean powder, and pink Himalayan sea salt. And that’s it. These ” pure, straight-from-the-source ingredients” are not just delicious. They’re part of a movement. The Revival Food Co. movement to “start thinking differently about your health and the way you eat.” Owner and maker Rachel Klein of Indianapolis has a passion that shines through in her product. Homespun is proud to carry Revival Food Co. on our shelves, come on over and ask us for a sample, we’ll bet you leave with a jar for yourself.

1| How do you describe your work to people who don’t know anything about crafting/art?

Every once in a while, I still meet some lovely folks who have no idea what almond butter is. Kid you not, there have been more than a few passerbys who have taken the samples and rubbed them on their skin because they thought it was a lotion of some sort. Totally fair! I’m sure it could do wonders for your skin! So I proceed to tell them that what we make is actually a highly nutritional and super delicious spread, similar to peanut butter, but much healthier and packed with way more flavor! And then I challenge them to taste it, and prepare for their worlds to never again be the same. 😉

2| Why do you make/design things?

The truth is, I just love the pure and good things of life, and I think that food is one of those things. It’s a joy for me to create food that I know is full of amazing ingredients and will truly benefit the individual who eats it. I also create food with a mission to positively impact the world— whether that be by simply making folks smile as they try their first spoonful of stone-ground almond butter, or as we lovingly donate a portion of our profits to local needs in the community and around the globe. Revival Food Co. is a platform to do and create amazing things!

3| What do you love about your job?

I love so many things about my job, but if I had to choose one thing, it would be the community interaction that Revival Food Co. gives me the opportunity for. I love being at the Farmers Market throughout the week, and I love meeting business owners as well. It’s always so much fun for me to be out in the community and to hear genuine positive reactions to our product and company.

4| Was being a maker always your plan or was there an “aha” moment?

I had a lot of big dreams about what I would do when I “grew up” and I can definitely tell you that owning a food business was not one of them. I always thought it would be amazing to work for myself, but didn’t know how that would realistically work out. I used to always make food from scratch at home, and when it came time to think of a clever wedding favor for my wedding in May of 2014, I decided it would be fun to give my guests some of my homemade almond butter! Everyone loved it and more than a few people encouraged me to start selling it. My husband and I moved to Indianapolis from Louisville, and I decided “why not?” I figured I would just try this venture out as long as God kept the doors open for me, and so far He definitely has in a big way!

5| How do you work, and where?

Currently, our commercial kitchen is located downtown Indianapolis, right off the of the Canal. It’s pretty quaint! With all of our recent growth, we may be needing a bigger location. If anyone knows of anything, feel free to send it my way! 😉

6| If you could swap lives with another artist, who would that person be?

Truthfully, I love my life and I wouldn’t trade it for the world.

7| What makes a handmade object valuable?

When you hold a jar of our stone-ground almond butter, you can trust the label where it says “Quality Over Quantity” and “Handcrafted in Small Batches.” Every single ingredient that is in our jars, including the jars and labels themselves, have been chosen not because they’re cheap, but because they’re amazing. Sure, you could buy a less expensive jar of almond butter at Kroger, but what really went into making that spread? A high-powered machine, strange oils, chemicals in the air, etc. But not with us. We keep it all fresh, clean, highly nutritious, and local. Not to mention, each small batch is made with so much love!

8| Using that definition, what’s the most valuable object you own?

I would have to say the most valuable objects I own are those that are more quality than quantity, and made with more love than perfection. I can’t think of a single item that I own that carries all of those definitions well, but I definitely value my husband and my dog more than anything else in my home! They’re the best ever. 

9| Tell us one true thing about yourself that people don’t believe when you tell them.

I’m a certified aerial yoga instructor (obviously not using that skill right now!) and I skipped out on my college graduation ceremony to go to the Kentucky Derby (the obvious choice).

10| Give us three more non-crafting-related details about you or your life.

My dog, Champ, is the coolest and smartest Jack Russell ever (he even has his own instagram account @champthejack). I’m slightly obsessed with Graeter’s chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream. I love doing yoga at Practice Indie (downtown yoga studio) because all of the ladies that teach there crack me up and fill me with joy, and because I’ve never gotten a better workout practicing yoga than I have in that space!

11| You have some very creative butter blends like Spicy Bourbon and Chai Time. Any chance you have some new choices up your sleeve?

Absolutely! We’ve decided to continually create new seasonal flavors every 3-4 months, in addition to“core four” flavors of Classic, Super Spread, Chai Time, and Coco Love. It keeps things interesting for us, and for our customers, who are always so excited to see what new things we’ve concocted!

12| Your website features some great recipes for using your butters. How do you usually eat them? What is your favorite way to eat them?

It’s amazing that I still crave my almond butter all the time, but I do! I love spreading it on banana for a pre-workout snack, and I love working it into savory dishes. Recently, I’ve been stirring in the winter seasonal flavor, Balance Blend (rosemary-maca almond butter), with some simple olive oil noodles, zucchini, and shredded Toscano cheese! But I must say, my absolute favorite way to eat our almond butter is on a warm piece of Amelia’s cranberry walnut toast. It’s like taking a bite of Heaven!

13| Describe your typical day.

I don’t even know what that is. I’m pretty sure that there is literally no such thing as a “typical” day when you’re a business owner of a new company. I have my work-week split up into certain days that I spend the majority of my time in the kitchen and days that I spend the majority of my time working through email and accounting. In the midst of all of that, there are so many other things that enter into my day unexpectedly!

14| What do you wish people knew about what you do?

I feel that we are very transparent about our process and why we do what we do, but in case the customer hasn’t actually met us or checked out our website, I would want them to know that we are in this business to make an impact, not to make a dollar. We are committed to giving back a portion of our profits to the community, to those in need, and to non-profits that are bringing about amazing things in our world. Along with that, we are also committed to creating a product that is full of the absolute best ingredients that we can get our hands on, so you can feel awesome about each bite. Most of our ingredients are organic, save for the almonds, which is due to both the drought in California, and the fact that many of the organic almond growers are only in the organic industry for the money, and their product isn’t nearly as quality as the almonds that we currently use in our almond butters, from a small, family-owned farm in northern California. We wouldn’t be doing what we’re doing if we didn’t love the people that we interact with on a daily basis and if we didn’t truly love our foods as much as you do. We feel so blessed to be able to be in this business.

Thanks, Rachel, for taking the time to talk with us. If you’re interested in staying in touch with their food movement, you can follow along on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, @revivalfoodco.

This week I have for you a lovely browse through our new items, Stephanie’s What We’re Loving selection, and Homespun’s upcoming calendar. You’ll want to stay tuned to the blog this week as we have Meet Your Maker coming up on Thursday with Revival Food Co., and then an all new How-To blog that will make your mouth water!

New

These koozies have come to us just in time, and these really important notebooks are always useful, all from new vendor Jolly Good Designs.

Lots and lots of new t-shirts! These are just a few. From USI and Hayes and Taylor.

Lovely bright ceramic rings from Natasha J Collection.

Um. You guys. This is a real game made by the USI guys and it is kinda like dominos but hilarious and fantastic and I’m assuming extremely fun. If you are going to be part of a recreational gathering of people any time soon, you will not be remiss in bringing this with you!

I’m totally obsessed with this felt food from Lilla Barn. Look at that delicious sandwich! Also available, delectable sugar cookies and BACON. And eggs.

Dog soaps not just for the yellow ones by 407 Botanicals, ceramic cuff links and leather flower headbands by Joyful Creations, and buttons of course by USI.

I might just take this on home and start using it and see if anyone says anything. The perfect gift for your favorite human by USI.

Love the length on this leather necklace from Joyful Creations, and this wooden phone case is made by new vendor Carved.

What We’re Loving

Stephanie is new to the Homespun crew, so she’s just learning about how hard it is to actually make money working here while being constantly temped by amazing products. She picked these Woodland Fox booties by Tilly Whistle because “they would make the perfect baby shower gift for my friend with the same aesthetic in mind!” So much to buy for yourself, not to mention all the gifts… Thanks Stephanie!

Candle Maker Pop-Up Bar with The Onyx Exchange: Sunday, May 1st, 11am-6pm: Just in time for Mothers’ Day…! Our next Candle Maker Pop-up Bar with The Onyx Exchange is happening Sunday, May 1st. Stop in and create a perfect, spring-scented 7oz. Lux Candle or 10oz. Wine Bottle Candle for your dear mama (or bring her in to make her own!). Choose from 36 scents or mix multiple.

Workshop: Pinot & Paws: Paint Your Pet: Thursday, May 12th, 6-8pm: Pets. They’re the family we choose. If you’re a dog or cat (or any animal, really) person, you understand the important role pets play in our lives. For many of us, our beloved pets are like our children, loving us unconditionally and loyally. Here’s your chance to immortalize your beloved Fido or Whiskers: instructor Deanna Leonard of Arcadian Design will be hosting a “Paint Your Pet” workshop at our store. Students will create a portrait from a favorite photograph with acrylic paint to cherish for years to come. Plus, we’ll have snacks and wine on hand for a full artist experience.

Workshop: How to Run an Etsy Shop: Saturday, May 28th, 1-4pm: re you a new maker, wondering how to get started in the world of online sales? Or, do you already have an Etsy store that you’re ready to take to the next level? Tamara Hoffbauer of Decorative Design Works will be hosting this Etsy Success workshop on Saturday, February 27th for both beginner and intermediate Etsy sellers, as well as those who do not yet have an Etsy shop. Her goal is to provide Etsy sellers with tools and tips to set them on the path to business success. Topics covered include best practices, pricing, presentation, crafting the ideal listing, SEO explained, research tools, time-saving techniques, and more. A complete workbook is provided with the class along with worksheets and templates. No special materials are required – just bring pen and paper and the desire to take your Etsy business to the next level!

See ya next week, friends!

Hey everyone! I am so ready for the sunshine up ahead. We’ve got two new beauty product lines from new vendors Honey Belle and 407 Botanicals to help you detox from the long, dry winter, and freshen up for spring and summer warmth. Lots of other fresh handmade goodies are out to shine for you, too!

New

Bath soaks, lotions, and everything luxurious from 407 Botanicals and Honey Belle.

Fun, high contrast carved mugs from Smollthings.

New design and stock on lots of others from Megan Lee Designs.

Impeccably sewn race flag dresses and new pillows from Donetta’s Designs, vintage matchbook box by Indyardart, and new Garbage Pail Kids magnets from Mark Shirar. Also, brand new party “crackers” by Make Merry add fun to any party; just pull the ends and inside is filled with goodies and fun questions for your next shower or family gathering!

What We’re Wearing

Cardinal Tee by Vardagen, and greyhound heart tee new from Megan Lee Designs.

What We’re Loving

Marla loves these seed bombs from Visual Lingual because, “I love the packaging and the idea of randomly slinging flower seeds all over the city!” Spread some joy by planting flowers then balance it out by causing some mischief with your new sling, these seed bomb sets are sure to please.

Workshop: Mixed Media Junk Journal: Thursday, April 14th, 6-8pm: Do you ever feel like you have artists’ block? Maybe you’re an out-of-practice creative wanting to get back in the habit? Perhaps you have the creative spark, but you’re not sure where to start? We’re here to help! Join our Mixed Media Junk Journal Workshop to get your creative juices flowing. Play and explore design ideas through a variety of materials and mediums.

Candle Maker Pop-Up Bar with The Onyx Exchange: Sunday, May 1st, 11am-6pm: Just in time for Mothers’ Day…! Our next Candle Maker Pop-up Bar with The Onyx Exchange is happening Sunday, May 1st. Stop in and create a perfect, spring-scented 7oz. Lux Candle or 10oz. Wine Bottle Candle for your dear mama (or bring her in to make her own!). Choose from 36 scents or mix multiple.

Workshop: Pinot & Paws: Paint Your Pet: Thursday, May 12th, 6-8pm: Pets. They’re the family we choose. If you’re a dog or cat (or any animal, really) person, you understand the important role pets play in our lives. For many of us, our beloved pets are like our children, loving us unconditionally and loyally. Here’s your chance to immortalize your beloved Fido or Whiskers: instructor Deanna Leonard of Arcadian Design will be hosting a “Paint Your Pet” workshop at our store. Students will create a portrait from a favorite photograph with acrylic paint to cherish for years to come. Plus, we’ll have snacks and wine on hand for a full artist experience.

Workshop: How to Run an Etsy Shop: Saturday, May 28th, 1-4pm: re you a new maker, wondering how to get started in the world of online sales? Or, do you already have an Etsy store that you’re ready to take to the next level? Tamara Hoffbauer of Decorative Design Works will be hosting this Etsy Success workshop on Saturday, February 27th for both beginner and intermediate Etsy sellers, as well as those who do not yet have an Etsy shop. Her goal is to provide Etsy sellers with tools and tips to set them on the path to business success. Topics covered include best practices, pricing, presentation, crafting the ideal listing, SEO explained, research tools, time-saving techniques, and more. A complete workbook is provided with the class along with worksheets and templates. No special materials are required – just bring pen and paper and the desire to take your Etsy business to the next level!

See ya next week, friends!