Lemon & Blueberry Loaf and Eton Mess

Yesterday was my aunt's birthday (and Valentine's day), so I decided to bake her a birthday present. She likes lemons and blueberries, so when I came across this recipe for a "Lushious Lemon and Blueberry Loaf Cake", I thought it would be the perfect gift. It was easy to make, and turned out really well. I used frozen blueberries because my local grocery store didn't have any fresh ones in stock, and although they all sunk to the bottom of the loaf, it still tasted great.

I also made a batch of Eton Mess. After having it at my cousin's house in Ireland over Christmas, I had been meaning to re-create it at home. It's really easy to make and versatile, too. I used fresh strawberries, but you can use any fruit, or combination of fruits that you like.

All you need to make Eton Mess is whipping cream, meringues (store-bought or homemade), and the fruit of your choice. I used 1 pint of heavy whipping cream and 1 1/2 little green baskets of strawberries to make 5 servings, but there was still some leftover. After whipping the cream until it forms stiff peaks, fold in the crushed meringue (I recommend cutting the meringue into bite-sized chunks so that it doesn't just disintegrate into the cream). I used roughly 3 ounces of meringues. Then, layer the meringue-cream and sliced strawberries in the serving dish of your choice. I used mason jars, my cousin used champagne flutes, it's really up to you. I think serving it in individual portions is nicer than making one communal bowl, and serving it in something translucent lets everyone see the layers of fruit and cream. Serve as soon after you assemble it as possible, otherwise the meringue will absorb the moisture from the cream and lose its crunch.

My crushed/sliced day-glo meringues. I couldn't find any white ones, but these tasted exactly like the plain variety and added some extra color.

Fresh strawberries, the perfect addition to whipped cream and meringue. 

Another view of the finished product. Bon Apetit!