Why the Caribbean influence

Over the past 25 years I've spent a lot of time in the Caribbean islands. Travel is my favorite pastime and the best way to unwind and recharge my batteries.

When away, I love to explore local markets and supermarkets, visit the favorite local restaurants and experience unfamiliar cuisines. Of course sampling all the local desserts and pastries is the highlight of my excursions.

I am lucky to have been able to collect recipes during my travels, and being able to share these desserts with friends and family back home.

One of the all time favorites is my famous Caribbean rum cake (recipe from Barbados). This is a rich, unique, flavorful, rum soaked bundt cake, delicious served warm with ice cream or at room temperature by itself.

My other extremely popular cake is the Gateau Creole (recipe from Haiti). This is a buttery, tropical cake flavored with nutmeg, coconut, lime and island spices, drizzled with a lemon-lime icing and sprinkled with toasted coconut. Tasting this cake is just like a journey to the islands, refreshing and flavorful.