literary gluttony

Is there anything better than curling up with a good book and a perfect snack? For this week’s Tasty Tuesday, I couldn’t resist pairing a decadent dessert with a story that’s just as rich and indulgent.

📖 The Book: Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber
This glittering fairy-tale of magic, curses, and dangerous bargains begs to be savored slowly. It’s whimsical, heart-twisting, and full of sugar-dusted enchantment—exactly the kind of story that feels like stepping into a carnival of temptations.

🍰 The Snack: Strawberry Shortcake
Light, sweet, and just a little dramatic with its layers of cream and berries, strawberry shortcake feels like the edible version of Garber’s storytelling. Every bite balances sweetness with just enough tartness—just like Evangeline’s adventures with the Prince of Hearts.

🍓 Quick & Cozy Strawberry Shortcake Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons sugar (for the shortcake)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 2/3 cup buttermilk (plus extra if needed)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. In a bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup sugar. Let them macerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment.
3. In a large bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, 2 tbsp sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter with a pastry cutter (or your fingertips) until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Pour in buttermilk and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix—shaggy dough is perfect.
5. Drop spoonfuls of dough onto the baking sheet (about 8). Bake 12–15 minutes, until golden. Cool slightly.
6. In a chilled bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
7. Split warm shortcakes, layer with strawberries and cream, and crown with the top biscuit.

✨ Together with Once Upon a Broken Heart, this pairing makes the ultimate indulgence: a world where magic tastes like whipped cream and heartbreak lingers like strawberries on your tongue.

Tell me, Gluttons—what’s your go-to book and snack combo when you’re craving something a little decadent?