Food is called a love language for good reason. We celebrate holidays and milestones alike with signature dishes, especially desserts. The perfectly even tiers of a favorite layer cake and glossy swirls of buttercream are all part of significant moments in our lives. For some, half the joy of the cake is in the baking; for others, holidays are an opportunity to relax and enjoy the culinary artistry of others. Whether you’re the family baker or the chief taste-tester, Valentine’s Day is sure to be one of those special occasions that revolves around your sweet tooth.
For those craving something new and different, our friends at Cowbell Kitchen have just the ticket: a gorgeous sampler box of Valentine cookies. The Cowbell bakers have set aside a limited quantity, just for us. Each box has two dozen fresh, locally made cookies in a variety of flavors including dulce de leche shortbread, double chocolate hazelnut, traditional thumbprint cookies, and more! Cowbell Kitchen is a local Leesburg baker that believes, like we do, that the best ingredients are local. In addition to their beautiful cookies, Cowbell is also sending us fresh strawberry glazed brioche donuts and cinnamon rolls.
If you prefer to take on you own labor of love in the kitchen, we have the local harvests you'll need and a few ideas to make it extra special! There is a deep joy to be found in preparing food, especially in the precise steps of baking. Incorporating seasonal ingredients in unexpected ways elevates your favorite sweets into memorable creations. Making your own cinnamon rolls for a Valentine brunch? Adding sweet potatoes to your dough makes for an extra sweet, incredibly moist wintery treat that pairs perfectly with the warm spice of cinnamon and the tang of cream cheese frosting. Even if you avoid gluten or dairy, sweet potatoes can make cinnamon roll dreams come true with a "paleo" twist on the beloved favorite. Red velvet is another classic flavor that can be leveled up with local food! Who needs artificial colors when you can add beets for a creative reimagining of this beloved cake? Or, try a healthier cupcake adaptation that just so happens to be vegan and gluten free! The rich chocolate filling will keep your sweetheart from guessing you’ve baked a nutritious power house as well as a treat.
So many of the best chefs say it’s the quality of the ingredients that truly makes the meal. As farmers, we’re inclined to agree. Whether you support local eateries like Cowbell kitchen or prepare your own signature dishes with farm fresh ingredients, local food means an extra layer of love. There is no substitute for freshness and flavor. As CSA members, you can vouch for this top chef “secret”. You already know that fresh organic produce brings health, variety, and flavor to your table. This Valentine’s Day, after you’ve shared a meal with your beau, give your friends and neighbors the gift of Farm-ily: invite them to join our CSA! Use the referral code in your online profile to spread the love, and let us gift you a $25 credit to show our thanks.
As a we harvest and pack veggie boxes this Friday, we’ll be filled with gratitude for all the love on our lives, especially the shared love of local food that unites our amazing community. Happy Valentine’s Day to you, and everyone you love!
Eat Well and Be Well,
Ashley, Collin, Alexandra, Gabe, and Finn the Farm Dog - Your Winter Willowsford Farm Crew
