Practically Speaking: Essential Chocolate Cake

Even though I generally have a cake mix in my cabinet (you never know....), I am utterly and completely relieved to find the perfect chocolate cake recipe (Martha Stewart, of course). It works every time, has perfect texture, and is mind-bogglingly delicious. Standard pantry ingredients only. The recipe makes a great layer cake, or is great to layer chunks in parfait glasses with ice cream and strawberries. Heavens.  Pair it with this chocolate frosting (makes a huge batch) and you may never low-carb again.

Practically Speaking: Pie Pallooza

I'm a firm believer in a regular excuse to eat pie. On a good day, I'm a very happy low-carbing, no sugar, steady gal. On a holiday, I believe in going all out. With a medieval nod to Fat Tuesday, this weekend we'll be skipping the pancakes and dipping our forks into the best of the best: fresh whipping cream, buttery crust, and straight up black coffee. Turn up the jazz, break out the games, and dig in! Celebrating with friends is always excuse. Post links to your favorite pie recipes--I'm always game for practicing.