Sometimes the most comfortable thing in the world is just staying home, in comfy pants wrapped up in a blanket with a good movie and a treat. When we’re craving comfort + cozy here is what we each turn to:
Though Candice might argue for an Austen man, I don’t think you can go wrong with a classic Bogart movie – and my favorite is Casablanca. The romance, the kitschy greatest of Rick’s and the selfless foggy night airport send off. My most favorite on-the-couch treat is a simple vanilla ice cream hot fudge sundae. Ever since Sarah made me her hot fudge sauce last year, I almost always have some in the fridge. It’s out of this world – and the recipe is below.
Pride and Prejudice is totally cliche, I know, but how can any girl not fall in love with Mr. Darcy and his brooding ways the first time they read it? So many versions have been filmed and I love them all but the BBC version with Colin Firth can never be beaten in my mind. If you are not a huge Austen fan and you are making fun of me in your mind then you may want to switch out Pride and Prejudice for Austenland, a new light-hearted romantic comedy that makes fun of the diehard Austen fan. What? I can make fun of myself… sort of. I did give one of my sons the middle name of Darcy. Future daughter-in-law, you are welcome.
The Notebook and Chocolate Chip ice cream might seem cliché, but sometimes you just have to go with what works! I thought of mentioning some high brow art film (maybe The Bicycle Thief), but the truth of the matter is, when my husband is out of town you can find me with ice cream and The Notebook! I’m smiling just thinking about it! It’s not very often I have a night all to myself, when I do, I go girly all the way!
Ps – All of the PJ pants are from Old Navy!
- ¼ c. water
- 1 c. light corn syrup
- 1⅓ c. sugar
- ¼ tsp. salt
- 4 oz. unsweetened chocolate, chopped
- ½ c. cocoa powder
- 4 Tbsp. unsalted butter
- ¼ c. whipping cream
- 1 Tbsp. vanilla
- Combine water, corn syrup and sugar in a saucepan and bring to a boil, stirring often, until all the sugar crystals have melted. Boil 1 minute without stirring.
- Remove from heat and add the salt and chocolate. Let stand two minutes until chocolate has melted, then whisk smooth.
- Sift cocoa into a mixing bowl, add enough liquid to make a paste, then stir the paste back into the syrup.
- Whisk in remaining ingredients.
- Store sauce in a tightly covered jar in the refrigerator. Reheat opened jar over simmering water before serving.
Colin’s version is a classic, but I find myself enjoying the newer (shorter) version of P&P just a little bit more. And if we’re being guilt-free, I’d pick Ruffles and ranch dip. Followed by Cadbury mini eggs. :)
Confession time: I’ve never seen Casablanca. I know, I can’t believe it either. I’m with Sarah; chocolate ice cream is the way to go.
Lisa, today is the perfect day to grab a bowl of ice cream and Casablanca … no one wants to go outside in this weather!
Melissa, I didn’t think of the seasonal snacks that I enjoy! Mini eggs would definitely be on the list!