Culinary Cory

Recipes + Essays

Bourbon Butter Bundt Cake

If you’re worried about drunk dialing an ex after eating a slice of this cake, you have nothing to worry about. The alcohol in the batter burns off while it bakes, and cooking the bourbon until the sugar dissolves does the trick for the glaze. What is left behind is a rich, caramel flavor that elevates the sumptuousness of the buttery pound cake-like Bundt. The one thing you might be surprised to find is that this cake can really absorb the...

Everyday Granola

I was standing in the cereal aisle of my local grocery store in awe at the variety of breakfast options displayed in front of me. “No one really wants this many choices for breakfast,” I thought to myself as I pushed my cart past the sugary flakes and shamrock-shaped marshmallows to the granola options. I realized while picking up box after box – reading the ingredients, and then putting them back. I already had everything I needed to...

Dried Asian Pear Salad

I believe the best salads happen when I clean out the cupboards. That’s exactly what happened here. I always have spring greens and carrots on hand. The dried Asian pears were extra samples from an event I hosted. Leftover from a recent batch of cookies I whipped together for work, the dried cranberries and candied pecans added the perfect balance of tart and crunch. Of course, you can't go wrong with the Maple Dijon Vinaigrette. It's my...

Chocolate Depression Wacky Cake

When the world came to a crashing halt in 2020, “depression” arrived in several shapes and sizes. This simple recipe dates back to the Depression era when rationing was a mainstay of the time. Much like in 2020 when food was rationed out of fear of leaving the house. Devoid of eggs or dairy, this cake is perfect way to satisfy your vegan coworker at the next company potluck. Are office potlucks still a thing anymore? What this cake lacks in...

Almond and Fruit Granola

I attended an intro to fly fishing clinic through Wilderness Voyagers in Ohiopyle, PA a few years ago. The two-day weekend clinic was held on the banks of the Youghiogheny River where I learned, along with six other brave souls, the basics of getting out on the water and landing a fish. Each morning began sitting outdoors at wooden picnic tables where we discussed insects and learned how to tie knots. For the second half of each day, we would...

Grilled Yogurt Flatbread

What I love most about this flatbread recipe is its versatility. I’ve used it as an alternative to English muffins for eggs benedict, a base for a simple air fryer pizza and simply served it on the side with soup. If you don’t have a grill, a cast iron pan or sturdy skillet will work just fine. Grilled Yogurt Flatbread Makes 6 flatbreads All-purpose flour - 2 cups, plus more kneadingBaking powder - 1 teaspoonTable salt - ½ teaspoonPlain...

Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese

This recipe’s success is rooted in using ingredients that can hold up to a long cooking period. I’m a huge fan of Cavatippi pasta because it has the texture of a Penne or Elbow macaroni, only more twisty. And before you roll your eyes at my use of Velvetta cheese, I recommend you hear me out. The Velvetta adds body to the cheese sauce without the need for flour. Plus, it reminds me of my childhood a bit. The heavy cream adds richness, while...

Old Bay Deviled Eggs

Old Bay Seasoning became a new addition to my spice collection when I moved to Maryland. Originally created by Gustav Brunn in the mid-1930s, Old Bay is a blend of celery salt, red and black pepper, paprika, and pinches of a few other spices. The seasoning’s primary intention is to compliment seafood, specifically crabs and shrimp. However, the salty, yet smoky flavor seems to transition effortlessly to other foods including chowders, fried...

Fresh Apple Cake

This was such an interesting cake to make. Expecting a dry, coffee cake style texture, I was pleasantly surprised by its lightness. The cake itself has a gingerbread quality that is elevated by the brown sugar, while the fresh apples add moisture. Don’t be alarmed when the top resembles a cracked dry top, similar to brownies. I think that adds to the intrigue of what lies below the surface. This cake pairs well with a dollop of whipped cream...

Foolproof Pizza Dough

Admittedly, I avoided making pizza dough for years. It seemed too daunting, messy and time consuming. My default was always to pick up my phone and order delivery. In the odd occasion when I wanted to make my own pizza, a prepared dough from the store would satisfy my needs. A few months ago, something strange happened. Delivery drivers started getting lost. I live in the suburbs of Washington, D.C. My house is easily found on any map app....