The HoopStem Homestead

10/05/2026

10/05/2026

What's your favorite week on the Great British Bake Off?

Mama HoopStem decided to try and go week for week, matching the them of and Princess HoopStem was up for the challenge.

First up was THE Nigella Chocolate Stout Cake. Of course we had to switch it up a little bit by combinging the Peanut and the 2-year Double Barrel Aged Imperial Stout from the 2024 Depth Collection of Pagoda City Brewing | Reading, PA in place of the traditional Guiness

This cake is absolutely decadent!

Follow along for our takes on the next challenges. Im sure there will be some interesting things to come!

10/01/2026

Ever made fresh pasta?

If you are looking to start making your own pasta and, like me, don't have Italian Nonna to teach you. This is the book for you!

Manuela breaks down everything from flour types to pasta shapes and the reasons behind them. Including easy to remember dough ratios and delicious recipes to best utilize your amazing new pasta making skills. I pick this book up 2 or 3 times a week.

The other night I stepped out of my comfort zone with the ricotta gnocchi with butter and aage sauce and it is definitely a new favorite!

Also, we share a first name, maybe she's my Nonna in another life

10/01/2026

Having tha ability to purchase things in bulk when on sale is truly a life saver. Our family's favorite American cheese from Clearfield® Cheese • The Pride of Pennsylvania was on sale and I couldn't resist grabbing a 5 pound block to slice at home!

And now that I've conquered the slicer, mostly, I'll be heading back for more!

09/27/2026

Mama HoopStem JUST remembered, we were gifted a bread maker a year ago.
Ahh the joys of brain fog

09/27/2026

Coffee and contemplation on this rainy Sunday.