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Oldies But Goodies: Homespun Wedding Favors

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Oldies But Goodies: Homespun Wedding Favors

Favorite childhood sweets

Your guests will appreciate edible wedding favors that reflect your favorite childhood sweets. These "oldies but goodies" can be beautifully packaged as parting gifts for your guests. Surely, there is at least one homespun wedding treat that will rekindle a fond childhood memory for you and your betrothed.

The classic cinnamon-sugar cookies called  snickerdoodles first appeared in early twentieth century American cookbooks and newspapers, but no one knows for certain where their quirky name originated. Some credit English, Scottish and Dutch immigrants for the peculiar title, since the cookie first gained popularity in the New England states. We called on Maui resident, Lisa Gustafson, to create these scrumptious snickerdoodles. An accomplished baker and cherished kindergarten teacher, Lisa says the key ingredient is cream of tartar. We say it is good old-fashioned love.

Alisa Evans says, "I always laugh when people come into the bakery and ask 'What's a Whoopie?'" As owner of West Coast Whoopies, Alisa tells us that the origin of the whoopie pie is much-debated among bakers, foodies and the children who adore them. She claims that the tale of the whoopie pie is said to have originated as early as the 1920s from some leftover cake batter and icing that a baker couldn't bear to waste. The cream-filled cakes became a well known homemade treat during the late forties and early fifties, and are still quite popular on the East Coast. Californians didn't know what they were missing until Alisa arrived. Modern versions include a delicious array of flavors. And the name? Alisa sticks to the story that a mother left the homemade treats in her child's lunch bag and upon discovering them, the delighted child shouted, "Whoopieee!". To test her theory, visit westcoastwhoopies.com to order smaller versions for your wedding favors.

Hawaii is a true melting pot of cultures and traditions, and one of the most coveted local treats is the malasada, a doughnut-like confection brought to the Islands from Portugal. Various bakeries throughout Hawaii still make hundreds of malasadas on a daily basis. Most notable is Leonard's Bakery on the island of Oahu, where they have been baking their Portuguese grandmother's recipe since 1946. Wrapped in tissue and a monogrammed band, the malasada is a thoughtful parting gift.

Who hasn't enjoyed the sweet-and-sour goodness of a delicious caramel apple? These delectable treats conjure up memories of hot summer days at the county fair. Your wedding guests will adore the idea of parting with a homespun dose of sunshine. With over forty varieties from which to choose, the DeBrito family in the heart of California has earned their title as the purveyor of gourmet caramel apples. Visit debritochocolate.com to try their delicious assortment.

Your guests have made the journey to share your happy beginning, so treat them to the delights of the area. If you travel to Maui, manju from Home Maid Bakery in Wailuku is a local favorite. The Japanese pastry has remained popular in the islands for over forty years, and while there is a flavor to suit everyone’s taste—guava, apple, peach, azuki bean and sweet potato—coconut is at the top of the list. Crispy manju has a delicious flaky crust and a sweet filling—think of it as a bite-sized fresh baked pie. Placed in a monogrammed wrapper by Paper Orchid Stationery, they are simply scrumptious.

Mochi is a sticky rice cake that is an important part of Japanese culture, but the origin of its name is uncertain. One plausible theory holds that “mochi” came from the verb “motsu,” which means “to have or to hold,” signifying that mochi is food given by God. The traditional New Year's food is believed to give strength, prosperity and long life. Considering mochi's meaning and sweet flavor, this silky smooth dessert is a thoughtful parting favor. Coconut mochi (pictured) is an Island favorite.

 

Comments

we got our wedding favors at

we got our wedding favors at my wedding favors (http://www.myweddingfavors.com but going the customized route and making something definitely adds another touch of class if you can afford it.

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