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Parsnip Cake & A Cookbook Giveaway

Parsnip Cake _ Slices

In the 156 updates about the new house, here is the latest. A new dining room and chairs were delivered last Saturday turning the new pad into a real home. At least, that’s how it feels to me. Seeing this new space where new and visiting friends would now gather and break bread with us truly made me feel peaceful.

Having been brought up among amazing cooks who took every opportunity to gather friends and feed and wine them, and where no Sunday was without a dozen people gathered at the dining room table, I knew the moment of feeling home would truly come when that corner of the house would no longer be empty.

 

Frosting Ingredient

Now, I am deep into looking at new recipes to cook and plan dinner menus for possible dinner parties. I am finally feeling a sense of being settled and started unraveling the cookbooks, the food stories, the imagery I had to set aside this whole summer and early Fall because of all the cacophony happening in my life.

It felt a bit strange to spend Sunday doing things just for me. Well, for the house really. I built some shelves, took care of the giant pile of leaves on the back deck, and did all the mundane things plenty of people do on a Sunday. Coffee and the newspaper in the morning. A walk in the park in the afternoon. Laundry, vacuum. Sundays were never completely mine as a freelancer. There was always a file to edit, a folder to send, a lot of backing up to do. And I admit, I am digging a good Sunday now…


Parsnip Cake _ Whole

Especially one that starts and ends with cake. A Parsnip cake to be exact. Think Carrot Cake but with parsnips instead. Not something this Frenchie would have ran to make had I not met the cookbook author behind the recipe, just very recently.

 Meeting famed New Zealand cookbook author Julie Le Clerc was one of the highlights of the workshop I taught in Charleston last week where she was an attendee. Getting to know her personally, her food philosophy and realizing how much of a hard worker she is (writing, styling and shooting each of her books – all 14 of them), kind of made me fall even more with her recipes. Beside the fact that she is lovely, generous and humble in person…I did own a couple of her books prior to meeting her but had not spent enough time cooking from them.

 

Sunday Baking

After a great weekend of photo workshop alongside Julie and a dozen other talented women, I could not wait to get back home and take out her books from that big box staring at me since I had arrived in Birmingham.

She definitely created a good cake when she included that recipe in her book, Julie’s Favorite Cakes. The thing is, it does not taste "parsnip-ish" at all. Instead the mild flavor lets you enjoy the pineapple and frosting a lot more than if it had been carrot. I am definitely sold on the concept!

 I realize that some of you may not know Julie and her recipes very well. To remedy that, I am giving away a copy of her latest book, Made By Hand. She brought a copy with her to the workshop and it is stunning. The design is lovely, the photography is superb and the recipes tempting. There are also icons with each one guiding you in your choice if you are vegetarian, celiac or grain free, without being necessarily geared toward one food choice over the other.

It makes cooking for friends that much easier…!


Parsnip Cake _ Slices

To enter the giveaway and throw your name in the hat to win a copy of Julie’s book, just leave a comment at the bottom of this post between today, Monday November 19th and Friday November 23rd at midnight, central US time. One entry per person, no anonymous comment will be eligible. The lucky winner will be announced in a follow up post next week.

Parsnip Cake, very slightly adapted from Julie Le Clerc’s recipe

I had enough batter to fill a 8-inch round and a 6-inch round baking dish.

Cake:
1 cup sugar
1 cup olive oil (original calls for 1 1/4 cups vegetable oil)
1 tsp vanilla
3 large eggs
1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
4 cups grated parsnip
1 1/3 cups flour (I use Jeanne’s gluten free flour mix – it works with every recipe!)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 cup dried cranberries (original calls for currants)
2 tablespoons ground cardamom (original calls for cinnamon)

Preheat oven to 350F.  Grease a 10-inch baking pan.
Whisk together sugar, oil and vanilla in a medium bowl.  Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the pineapple.Place grated parsnip, flour, salt, baking soda, cranberries and cardamom in a large bowl.  Pour in the wet mixture, stir well to incorporate. Spoon cake mixture into prepared pan.  Bake for 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.  Once cold, cover with lemon cream cheese frosting.

Lemon Cream Cheese Frosting:
1 cup cream cheese, softened
50 g unsalted butter, at room temperature
1/2 cup caster sugar
grated rind and juice of one lemon

Beat all ingredients together until creamy.  Spread over cake.

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Comments


Sara November 19, 2012 um 7:49 pm

Lovely cake…sounds so delicious! 🙂 And the cookbook sounds awesome! 🙂


Katie November 19, 2012 um 7:54 pm

Looks fabulous. One of my favourite cakes I've ever eaten was a parsnip cake with maple frosting. This sounds delicious, must try!


jamie @ green beans and grapefruit November 19, 2012 um 7:55 pm

Ohhh what a delicious post in every sense! This cake looks sooo good and I'll have to check out Julie's site asap.


Vera Ferraz November 19, 2012 um 7:56 pm

What a great post, great pictures!


Anna November 19, 2012 um 7:57 pm

Mmmm. I love parsnips and the cake looks/sounds scrumptious. And thank you for the link to Jeanne's flour mix! I'm going to whip up a big jar of it and give it to my recently GF friend.


MaryB November 19, 2012 um 7:58 pm

Thanks for offering the chance to win the book. This gluten free cake looks delicious. I will be making this for our gluten free friend next week.


surfingtheworldcuisine November 19, 2012 um 8:01 pm

The recipe sounds very unusaual but interesting. I have never even thought of combining cake and parsnip in one sentence. 😀 Lovely photos and post. As always!


Jess November 19, 2012 um 8:04 pm

Julie's book looks so pretty! I could use a few more cake recipes!!

Jessica


Liz November 19, 2012 um 8:05 pm

Love your blog and your pictures! Helen, you're a real inspiration! Would love to take a closer look at the cookbook, best, Liz


AliciaK November 19, 2012 um 8:08 pm

Parsnip cake? Sounds quite interesting!


Sandrine November 19, 2012 um 8:08 pm

Bonjour Helene,
Je crois que c'est la première fois que j'ai l'honneur de pouvoir glisser un petit mot avant tout le monde, tant tes admirateurs sont nombreux.
Ca y est je me suis lancée, et j'espère rendre public mon blog d'ici la fin de l'année!!
C'est toujours un plaisir de visiter ton blog.
A bientôt,
Sandrine


AliciaK November 19, 2012 um 8:08 pm

Parsnip Cake? Sounds quite interesting!


Athena November 19, 2012 um 8:09 pm

Love your blog and the book sounds wonderful-would love to win! Best, Athena. [email protected]


Cindy Martin November 19, 2012 um 8:11 pm

Would love to win the cookbook. Interesting recipe. Love the photos, Helene!


Justine November 19, 2012 um 8:13 pm

I really love cakes that have vegetables hidden – it creates such an earthy texture and they're ALWAYS surprisingly moist! I've made a chocolate beet cake and a citrus-y squash cake!


Letícia November 19, 2012 um 8:20 pm

I'd really love to win the book! 🙂
the photos of the post are gorgeous! made me want to drink some tea 🙂


Ellen November 19, 2012 um 8:22 pm

I would love to win a copy of Julie's lovely book! Also, cannot WAIT to make this parsnip cake! Your beautiful posts are always such a treat!

Thanks!
Ellen


Redd H from Salted Spoon November 19, 2012 um 8:26 pm

I would never have thought to make a cake with parsnip, but it's so sweet that I guess it makes sense! I'd love to check out the book, too.


Margarida V November 19, 2012 um 8:26 pm

love your blog


Laura November 19, 2012 um 8:34 pm

Yum! I can't wait until my copy of her book arrives from Amazon 🙂 Glad you're settling in to your new home & are finally able to take some time for you–you deserve it! Miss you, dear friend.


Karla November 19, 2012 um 8:40 pm

I've never tried a parsnip cake, but it sounds so interesting. It's definitely going on my to do list!


Alexandra Skrebtsova November 19, 2012 um 8:44 pm

I' d be glad to have one copy )) I'm Aleksandra (the name to be put into a hat)


Unknown November 19, 2012 um 8:46 pm

The book looks beautiful!

Can't wait to try this cake. I'm always looking for new and interesting desserts. Thank you!


Giulia November 19, 2012 um 8:47 pm

I'd love this cookbook. Fingers crossed.
And your photos are amazing as usual – it seems your lighting has changed slightly with the new home?


Danielle November 19, 2012 um 8:48 pm

I think its time to pull some parsnips in my vegetatie garden and going to make this cake. Love Youre blog, i' m following it à few years now.

Danielle


Helene November 19, 2012 um 8:48 pm

Giulia: same light situation – just had to shoot late yesterday afternoon.


gail November 19, 2012 um 8:49 pm

thanks for this giveaway!
gkuroda(at)gmail(d0t)com


D. Acken November 19, 2012 um 8:51 pm

Thank you for posting this one Helene! Parsnips are my fave veg so I am running out to make it NOW!


Bianca November 19, 2012 um 8:54 pm

what a gorgeous cake!


Silvina C. November 19, 2012 um 8:54 pm

Interesting recipe and lovely photos!!!


Natalia November 19, 2012 um 8:55 pm

Sounds good! I stumbled for a second at "Preheat oven to 350F", as I always use C (usually 180C up to 210C for some dishes).


franfair November 19, 2012 um 8:55 pm

I would love to win a copy of Julie's book! And this parsnip cake looks beautiful and delicious. Can't wait to try it!


Michelle Jensen November 19, 2012 um 8:56 pm

Stunning, I'm yet to try a sweet recipe with hidden "goodness", but this one sounds delicious. Thanks for the opportunity (yet again) to win a cookbook.


Bonnie November 19, 2012 um 8:59 pm

I'd love a copy. The photos are tantalizing.


Salt Lake Sugar November 19, 2012 um 8:59 pm

I love parsnips!


Morven November 19, 2012 um 9:08 pm

I'm thrilled to see a New Zealand connection on your blog :-)If I were to win Julie's new book I would "re-gift" it to one of my US based foodie blogger friends.


Anonymous November 19, 2012 um 9:17 pm

Parsnip as opposed to carrot — seems logical… why didn't I think of that?!


Ela November 19, 2012 um 9:17 pm

Awww I love your photos! 🙂
And I would love to have this book, too… Anyways, I'll try your recipe soon!


Amy November 19, 2012 um 9:21 pm

This sounds amazing, I've never had parsnips in a baked good. It sounds like a lovely recipe to try with a few days off over the thanksgiving break. Thanks!


Juls @ JulsKitchen November 19, 2012 um 9:25 pm

This is fun, I'm almost in the same situation. I am moving on my own – just next door to my parents' house, I'm Italian after all – and I am trying to make the new house more mine.
The first thing I'm working on is the kitchen, obviously, since it's where I'll spend most of the time. But the second room I'm currently working in is the living /dining room. I have a huge table that belongs to my grandmother: it is a little bit old fashion, but it can comfortably sit 10 people.
Even though I'm moving on my own and I am a single lady, I have many gatherings with friends in my mind!

I cannot imagine a cake with parsnip, though it will be difficult to make because it is really difficult to be found here in Tuscany.

All the best with your projects!
Giulia x


LilyAnette November 19, 2012 um 9:41 pm

I would love to start baking more with root vegetables and this book looks very good to start with.Lovely photos as usual.


Gabriela November 19, 2012 um 9:45 pm

I have to do this recipe!!


rose November 19, 2012 um 9:51 pm

Thanks for the parsnip cake recipe…looks yummy! Looking forward to a bite. Cheers, Rose


M. Henderson November 19, 2012 um 9:53 pm

I've never had a parnsip, and I don't usually eat carrot cake because I hate coconut. Since this is a coconut-free concoction, I just may give it a try. Especially because I LOVE pineapple!


Hillary Butler {Fine Art} November 19, 2012 um 10:01 pm

Looks amazing!!!


Unknown November 19, 2012 um 10:02 pm

great post. i want to win. 🙂


Moo November 19, 2012 um 10:07 pm

I love cakes! 🙂


Moo November 19, 2012 um 10:08 pm

Mmm cakes!


Miranda November 19, 2012 um 10:15 pm

A cake made from parsnips?
I can't wait to see what else is in this book! It looks wonderful!


Lia Tumkus November 19, 2012 um 10:35 pm

NICE!!! 🙂


Sue November 19, 2012 um 10:36 pm

Why make a banana or zucchini or carrot cake when you can create this conversation starter. I am rushing out to get some parsnips and cardamon at my local grocery store. SENSATIONAL recipe!


Rachael Ferrera November 19, 2012 um 10:37 pm

beautiful looking cake!


Claudia Lima November 19, 2012 um 11:07 pm

I have never eaten parsinips. The cake looks very nice! 🙂


terri November 19, 2012 um 11:21 pm

parsnip cake–sounds intriguing!


Meagan November 19, 2012 um 11:44 pm

Love the blog. Thanks for the giveaway!


Unknown November 19, 2012 um 11:58 pm

I'm a new follower for your website and I am amazed at all the beautiful posts you have. The book looks amazing and I would love to try the recipes. Thank you for everything!

Ioana


Jacqui November 20, 2012 um 12:01 am

Thanks for doing this fabulous giveaway!!


Ms Hope November 20, 2012 um 12:26 am

Hope Smith
I love Kule Le Clerc's recipes, she has just completed a very successful 2nd series of a TV programme called "Cafe Secrets" much loved.
Next year it is going to be screened on the Asian Food Channel including Hong Kong, Singapore, China, Vietnam…maybe the US next!!


Tracey Morse November 20, 2012 um 12:30 am

The cake looks divine! I love Julie's work – being a kiwi, I've been following her for quite some time now – she always has the best recipes, advice on baking/cooking, and tips about where to go in NZ for a good bite or to get the best ingredients 🙂 actually, I think it was through Julie's blog that I found wee gem of a foodie blog…. 🙂


Unknown November 20, 2012 um 12:38 am

Looks delicious! Thanks for the giveaway!


equisetaceae November 20, 2012 um 1:01 am

i love parsnips! I just made a parsnip apple potato soup this weekend. To die for with smoked gouda!

Julie's book sounds lovely, thanks for sharing!


Unknown November 20, 2012 um 1:24 am

Looks lovely, would love to have a copy of her latest book!


Unknown November 20, 2012 um 1:25 am

NEVER would have thought a parsnip pie would sound scrumptious😉


Susana I. November 20, 2012 um 1:29 am

Thanks for the chance!! 🙂 ([email protected])


Jenifer Smith November 20, 2012 um 2:55 am

Love the new post on Parsnip Cake. What a lovely idea, I'd love to try it. Thanks for the chance to win!!!

Jenifer [email protected]


Sarah November 20, 2012 um 2:55 am

I must try this intriguing cake! Great post and giveaway!

[email protected]


Tara November 20, 2012 um 3:12 am

OOO!! I WANT!!!


Pia November 20, 2012 um 3:23 am

Hello!

Excellent post and photos, as always! Parsnips make total sense, but I never would have thought to try it out.
Crossing my fingers 🙂

-Pia


sarah November 20, 2012 um 3:23 am

This looks yummy!


Tiffany November 20, 2012 um 3:43 am

What an intriguing sounding cake. It certainly looks delicious! I would love to learn more creative recipes from Julie's book 🙂


Cheryl November 20, 2012 um 3:54 am

Beautiful cake, parsnips…who knew! I have a colander just like that filled with the same colored eggs, how weird is that? Anyway, thank you so much for the opportunity to enter my name.


Viktoria November 20, 2012 um 4:34 am

Cake made from parsnips has never occurred to me. I've made cake from other roots: beets, potatoes, yams. But never parsnips. I love cake and I love parsnips, so I will make this cake. Thanks for the lovely post!


elizabeth November 20, 2012 um 4:39 am

Sounds like a very interesting cookbook. What fun!


Ally November 20, 2012 um 4:45 am

I love the idea of the icons. I'm a vegetarian, so it'd be nice to be able to pick those recipes out in a hurry!


Jessica November 20, 2012 um 5:51 am

I've never had a parsnip and now I'm feeling like I should really try one… in cake.


love2read November 20, 2012 um 6:02 am

My principal loves carrot cake, I will have to make this for him.


TK November 20, 2012 um 6:28 am

i love carrot cake so i might have to try this recipe soon!


Babycakes November 20, 2012 um 6:33 am

this sounds amazing! I would love to try it and have a look at the other cakes. I'm a bit cake cook, and always looking for new ones.

Thanks for your blog by the way, always a pleasure to read.


lusitania November 20, 2012 um 7:49 am

Thanks for offering the chance to win the book :-))! Never tried a cake like this….maybe now is a right time! Regards from Portugal


eyo November 20, 2012 um 7:53 am

Parsnips… genius.


Liz November 20, 2012 um 8:18 am

Home is definitely very much where your hearth is Helene! Now with your cooking paraphernalia unpacked and to hand, you sound definitely settled.

I was just about to put some veg in a cake, other than regular carrot, so the success of this recipe of Julie's has given me confidence to try! Hope it turns out as yummy as your parsnip one!


Averie @ Averie Cooks November 20, 2012 um 9:05 am

I've seen the book on amazon and have always been tempted to Add to Cart!

And parsnips gone sweet rather than savory – fun twist!


Erica November 20, 2012 um 9:11 am

Very nice photos and cake! Thanks


ykristen November 20, 2012 um 10:24 am

Just love all cakes with cheese, would love the cook book.


RSA Online November 20, 2012 um 10:35 am

great presentation. It's perfect for me!


ForeverCaliDreamer November 20, 2012 um 10:45 am

It's a little embarrassing but I've never had parsnips. When I first saw the heading I thought I wouldn't ever try it but after reading the description of what this tastes like I might be making parsnip cake


ForeverCaliDreamer November 20, 2012 um 10:46 am

I need to try this out


Unknown November 20, 2012 um 12:07 pm

Helene, you are my endless inspiration! Thank you for what you're doing!


Amy Alexandria November 20, 2012 um 12:07 pm

Parsnip Cake! What a great idea! The cookbook looks very interesting!


adriprints November 20, 2012 um 12:08 pm

I never thought anyone could make parsnip appealing, but hey, what do you know? It looks delicious in cake-form!

😀 Happy Thanksgiving!


Fotini November 20, 2012 um 12:09 pm

Delicious post, as always!

Fotini


Charlotte Pillow November 20, 2012 um 12:15 pm

Cake with parsnips, please


Liron Mcley November 20, 2012 um 12:19 pm

The cake looks wonderful.. Parsnip is an interesting choice =)


Maria_NJ November 20, 2012 um 12:27 pm

mmmmm…sounds delicious…thank you for the chance to win the cookbook…

mmcmm 563 at comcast dot net


Anonymous November 20, 2012 um 12:30 pm

The parsnips are an interesting variation from the carrot concept. Looks good.


Unknown November 20, 2012 um 12:31 pm

Wow, I had to go Wikipedia to translate parsnip and look for the italian translation. it's what we call "white carrot" or pastinaccia which is not very common in Italy.. Can I substitute with something else? I guess with carrot (orange one) wont taste the same, right? Thank you for this recipe and the giveaway too! Good luck everyone 😉


Unknown November 20, 2012 um 12:33 pm

Quel délicieux gâteau ❤
J'adorerais gagner ce livre de Julie !
Bonne chance à toutes 🙂
Merci pour le concours, xX


Lucífera November 20, 2012 um 12:34 pm

I would love to be able to get this book. I am big fan of your (and her) work. I actually just ordered your book "Plate to Pixel". Keep up the good work!


Inumidun November 20, 2012 um 12:35 pm

Thanks. I love your blog.


sconelady November 20, 2012 um 12:38 pm

Would love to add this to my library


Jenny November 20, 2012 um 12:42 pm

Interesting


Robyn J November 20, 2012 um 12:42 pm

Gosh, parsnip cake sounds interest! I love me some carrot cake so i will definitely have to try this cake then! Thanks so much
[email protected]


White Toast with Butter November 20, 2012 um 12:43 pm

Great post – I would love to win the cookbook!


Unknown November 20, 2012 um 1:04 pm

If the kids only knew what they were eating!!!


Unknown November 20, 2012 um 1:08 pm

The cake looks delicious. Congrats on settling in to your new home.


Lizabeth November 20, 2012 um 1:10 pm

This recipe sounds perfect for the SO that won't eat certain veggies. I've been sneaking stuff in for awhile and this will be added to the list! And he loves pineapple 🙂


Christi November 20, 2012 um 1:11 pm

This is really an interesting way to use parsnips! I love the photography on this post!! Thank you…

cjpike at indiana dot edu


Yas N. November 20, 2012 um 1:20 pm

Thank you for providing a chance to win a cookbook! It sounds quite intriguing. I would not have thought about using parsnips in a cake. That sounds like a recipe I would enjoy trying to make.


Cup Cake November 20, 2012 um 1:25 pm

I would love to win the book, and I loved these gorgeous photos too 🙂


Anonymous November 20, 2012 um 1:30 pm

can i have this like..right away? darn, i have to stop foodporn during work. well..fingers crossed!;D


Unknown November 20, 2012 um 1:32 pm

Oh Parsnip Cake sounds amazing. I love carrot cake so this is something I will have to try!


Sharon November 20, 2012 um 1:33 pm

I love using unusual ingredients when baking. This recipe I will definitely try! Thank you for sharing!!


Lidia November 20, 2012 um 1:37 pm

I would love to add this to my collection of cookbooks…and I sure could use a new cake book!


Unknown November 20, 2012 um 1:38 pm

ceci est mon blog préféré dans le monde! grazie helene!


Anonymous November 20, 2012 um 1:59 pm

Yummy!! That cake looks good! I am a cookbook junky!!


Unknown November 20, 2012 um 1:59 pm

Parsnip cake, sounds good to me-))


Renee B November 20, 2012 um 2:06 pm

Wow, I'd never have thought of parsnips in a cake but am intrigued enough to try it. Thanks! BTW, the color palette of the egg photo is exquisite. I could—and just might—decorate a house in those colors!


Jessa November 20, 2012 um 2:07 pm

Oh, I just planted a whole bed of parsnips. How exciting to have this recipe to look forward to!


Roxanne November 20, 2012 um 2:10 pm

The cook looks delicious. And thanks for the chance to win the cookbook.


Drisdy November 20, 2012 um 2:11 pm

beautiful photos… and never heard of parsnip cake, but sounds delicious!


candelads November 20, 2012 um 2:12 pm

Helene, I love your pictures, recipes,stories… Thank You for this lovely blog. Regards from Italy ,Candela .


E,S, November 20, 2012 um 2:18 pm

Would love to win the cookbook.


martina November 20, 2012 um 2:20 pm

always good to have cake with some vegetable in it… you feel less guilty enjoying "another little piece"… Martina


silarem November 20, 2012 um 2:22 pm

I have never cooked with parsnips; in fact I just had to look for its translation in Spanish (chirivia). I will definitively love that cake to be the first recipe that I do with parsnips!!


Rachel November 20, 2012 um 2:27 pm

I love carrot cake, and I have a feeling I will love parsnip cake just as much, if not more!


Anonymous November 20, 2012 um 2:28 pm

The recipe spunds and looks delicious! Would love to win the book.
Annetje


Unknown November 20, 2012 um 2:34 pm

This cake looks awesome! This is a save and must try for sure!


Anne November 20, 2012 um 2:37 pm

I will make this cake very soon. Maybe without the frosting for breakfast.


Christina November 20, 2012 um 2:38 pm

I was lucky enough to have Julie as my roommate last weekend and she is as wonderful as Helene describes. I would love to own a copy of her cookbook but if I don't win, it is also on my Christmas list! Thanks Helene!


Phyllis November 20, 2012 um 2:46 pm

I would love this cookbook-thanks for the giveaway!


Virginie November 20, 2012 um 2:51 pm

I've never had parsnip cake, it looks delicious! Can't wait to bake one myself!


Cara November 20, 2012 um 2:52 pm

The book looks beautiful and the fact that there are gluten free recipes amazing. Would love a new cook book.. please add my name to the list. Fingers crossed. And Happy Holidays 🙂


Karine November 20, 2012 um 3:06 pm

The pictures make me want to just grap a piece of the cake and endulge. Such an interesting idea for a cake. My kids love sweets and cakes but don't care much for vegies. So this is a great way of making them try parsnips. I will give this cake a try. Would be happy to get a copy of her latest books and try new and different recipes.


Unknown November 20, 2012 um 3:11 pm

wow parsnip cake, interesting! Will have to try


Michelle November 20, 2012 um 3:17 pm

What a brilliant idea and perfect for this time of year. I can't wait to give it a try, especially with the family all getting together for the holidays. 🙂


Unknown November 20, 2012 um 3:25 pm

I would just love this cookbook!! RachelNob at gmail dot com


ela:::ela:::ela November 20, 2012 um 3:29 pm

I can't wait to make this as it looks so delicious!


Babs George November 20, 2012 um 3:32 pm

What a surprise! Parsnips are wonderful and delicious in the traditional recipes. The parsnip cake sounds delightful. Would love to win this cookbook.


Jacqui November 20, 2012 um 3:34 pm

I had an idea for making parsnip cupcakes, but I love them so much roasted none ever made their way into cake! But this does sound lovely!


lee November 20, 2012 um 3:42 pm

Cake looks great. I love a taste of lemon. I am going to try that recipe. Thanks for sharing.


Molly Pisula November 20, 2012 um 3:45 pm

I've never heard of parsnip cake, but it looks delicious! Thanks for the recipe!


Anonymous November 20, 2012 um 3:48 pm

There's an amazing book by Harry Eastwood which is full of slightly quirky vegetable-based cake recipes like this that I love – parsnips feature, as do almost any other vegetable you can think of! It's called 'Red Velvet and Chocolate Heartache' and this recipe would fit right in!


Lynn November 20, 2012 um 3:57 pm

Parsnip cake = fabulous idea! I want to keep closer tabs here (new follower) of classes you teach on the west coast. Be nice to get up close and personal coaching and tips on food photography, and then some.


Juleslebo November 20, 2012 um 4:01 pm

Yum, what a nice diversion from the typical carrot cake or zucchini loaf. Can't wait to try!


Cher November 20, 2012 um 4:26 pm

I can hardly wait to try the cake recipea and I would love to win the cookbook!


PhDChef November 20, 2012 um 4:39 pm

I would love to win this cake book! I'm always in search of great cake recipes, and ones that use different types of ingredients, such as the parsnip cake, are right up my ally!


Anonymous November 20, 2012 um 4:39 pm

great giveaway !! thanks…Andrea [email protected]


kim November 20, 2012 um 4:46 pm

this looks so unique, cant wait to try it!


Unknown November 20, 2012 um 4:48 pm

Helene,

Your work is always such an inspiration! Parsnip cake? Who would have thunk it? Looks and sounds delicious.

And I would l-o-v-e love to win the cookbook! Fingers and toes crossed!

Thanks so much for sharing and Happy Thanksgiving to you!


Jenn November 20, 2012 um 4:51 pm

I can't wait to try this cake recipe! Yum! xo


[email protected] November 20, 2012 um 4:53 pm

I have never had parsnips, seems like the perfect time to try them!


Anastasia November 20, 2012 um 4:55 pm

The cake sounds lovely. Your pictures are gorgeous!


Maureen November 20, 2012 um 4:56 pm

I think a parsnip cake sounds delicious and would be a unique addition to a special dinner. My family loves carrot cake and zucchini bread so I think this would be a hit.


Unknown November 20, 2012 um 4:58 pm

The cake looks divine! Thanks for the chance to win! -Sam ([email protected])


Sweetheart Geranuim November 20, 2012 um 5:07 pm

I actually have that book on my wishlist, to win it would be awesome!


penny November 20, 2012 um 5:07 pm

Oh, this looks yummy. And parsnips are in season so I can feel virtuous at the same time.


Just a Smidgen November 20, 2012 um 5:18 pm

Oh, dear.. scrolling down, it seems my chances of winning are slim.. but I'd still like to comment:D Looks like a wonderful cake and I'm off to check out that cookbook! It might be on my Xmas wish list now!


glutenfreewife November 20, 2012 um 5:18 pm

perfect timing with the holidays around the corner…


Rafal November 20, 2012 um 5:39 pm

This looks great.


Emilie in MN November 20, 2012 um 5:43 pm

I wouldn't have thought to make a parsnip cake, but now that the thought is there, it makes so much sense!


Anonymous November 20, 2012 um 5:48 pm

Wow! That looks absolutely fantastic! I love incorporating vegetables into my baking…. Her book sounds lovely, thank you for sharing!


Colleen McCaughan November 20, 2012 um 6:12 pm

Congrats Julie!


The Ellsies November 20, 2012 um 6:20 pm

this sounds so great! thanks for the giveaway


Daisy November 20, 2012 um 6:24 pm

Lovely photography!! And the cake looks amazing!
Happy THanksgiving.
Daisy


MD Smith November 20, 2012 um 6:34 pm

Thank you for offering this book! Your appreciation for the author's commitment to her books and the comment "It makes cooking for friends that much easier" surely sums it up!


Anna F November 20, 2012 um 7:12 pm

I would love to win! Thank you
frugalohio at gmail dot com


Alice November 20, 2012 um 7:25 pm

Lucky me! I happen to have extra parsnips in the fridge, so I can try this recipe soon. The book looks wonderful – would love to win it!!


Anonymous November 20, 2012 um 7:25 pm

I'm not sure if my comment went through. So I'm back again.
thanks….
[email protected]


Nicole November 20, 2012 um 7:28 pm

This cake sounds like a must try for the fall! The boyfriend loves pineapple and carrot cake is his favourite so hopefully this hits the spot 🙂


marilyn mack November 20, 2012 um 7:41 pm

Lovely photography and recipes.


Jessica November 20, 2012 um 7:52 pm

this looks like a great book, thanks for the chance to enter!

jessicarwarfield at gmail dot com


Pia November 20, 2012 um 7:54 pm

Love this blog and this cake perfect and so much Nz Kiwi style


sprite November 20, 2012 um 8:24 pm

Ooh! Can't wait to try this!


MamaB November 20, 2012 um 8:46 pm

That cakes looks wonderful, I love pineapple in cake. Would love the cookbook too.


Flor de Maria November 20, 2012 um 9:00 pm

I love the photography and the cake looks delicious–maybe for Thanksgiving?


Stellasmydog November 20, 2012 um 9:05 pm

The cook book looks great. Thanks for the give away!


Ashley November 20, 2012 um 9:17 pm

Sounds interesting. Thanks for the giveaway.


Lynnette November 20, 2012 um 9:35 pm

Always beautiful photos. Root vegetable huh…..well that is really interesting!!!


Jan November 20, 2012 um 9:48 pm

Off to visit Julie's site. The cake looks intruguing. I'd love to win the cookbook.


Unknown November 20, 2012 um 10:54 pm

Who'd have thought parsnip was so versatile!


Victoria Caballero November 20, 2012 um 11:10 pm

Interesting and original cake, easy to make. I will definetely try this recipe.


Lisabella November 20, 2012 um 11:39 pm

You had me at lemon cream cheese frosting…


KaySue November 21, 2012 um 2:48 am

This recipe sounds very interesting, and would be a good way to try parsnips for the first time. Desserts are the best anyway!
[email protected]


AnjasFood4Thought November 21, 2012 um 3:16 am

I put carrot into cakes and muffins all the time. Why not parsnips too? Great idea!!


Lene Johansen November 21, 2012 um 3:23 am

Your photo of the frosting ingredients makes frosting seem so easy! Your photo book is my holiday treat for me. I came across it at B&N and spent three hours reading from it there. Am buying it later this week!


Vee November 21, 2012 um 3:24 am

The cookbook sounds amazing!


Leslie November 21, 2012 um 3:34 am

Nice recipe!


Unknown November 21, 2012 um 4:12 am

That cake looks so good…I love to bake this time of the year. Thanks for sharing.


Unknown November 21, 2012 um 4:37 am

Loved the recipe and your pictures. fingers & toes crossed for the cookbook:))


IB November 21, 2012 um 4:42 am

Love the idea. It's nice to see fresh takes on baking like this, not to mention how lovely that book looks!


alice2 November 21, 2012 um 5:10 am

Parsnips! Nice variation to carrots. Love the flavor.


Ginny November 21, 2012 um 5:13 am

This sounds heavenly! Parsnip cake… interesting.


Gale Reeves November 21, 2012 um 5:14 am

Thanks for offering the cookbook. I enjoy your beautiful photograph.


ALise November 21, 2012 um 5:19 am

Happy Thanksgiving in your new dining room!
The pictures, the cake and the book look good!


Ultimate Cake November 21, 2012 um 5:46 am

My gramma used to make parsnip cake all the time, when we were small. I now use her recipe and bake parsnip cake often for my café.

Everytime I wash and peel and grate the parsnips I feel her standing behind me, a helping hand on my shoulder.


Unknown November 21, 2012 um 7:30 am

Oo hailing all the way from Malaysia, I'd love to win Julie's book.


Ioana Cristescu November 21, 2012 um 7:51 am

Dear Helene,

You are a joy to follow and your site is pure eye candy and delight, not to mention the lovely meals you create. I always browse your posts for relaxation and inspiration and they always remind me subtly of vacation time, especially in France. Wish you lots of luck with your new establishment and a full range of challenging projects


Unknown November 21, 2012 um 9:01 am

Lovely pictures as usual! Can't wait to try the cake!


Hannah November 21, 2012 um 9:19 am

This cake looks divine! I can't wait to try it. And as always your photography is superb. Thanks for the opportunity to win the cookbook.


Lara November 21, 2012 um 9:23 am

I blush to admit it but…I've never tried a parsnip! Here in Tuscany it seems to be a quite-lost root.
Therefore, that's what I've to plant in my garden this winter!! 😉
Hugs
Lara


Unknown November 21, 2012 um 10:23 am

Your cake looks very tasty! I just adore all cakes and especially some interesting ones!

Marina


Priya Sreeram November 21, 2012 um 10:25 am

lovely recipe and the cake looks delish; bookmarking it ! Is the giveaway worldwide ? If so count me in. Thanks for sharing.


bra November 21, 2012 um 10:35 am

I always LOVE the photos and the recipes you publish. Amazing for the eyes and the heart!!

This book looks wonderful, good luck all!

Cheers from Italy 🙂


Teresa @ Aurea's Kitchen November 21, 2012 um 10:35 am

I must test recipes with parsnips. Lovely giveaway¡¡


Susan M. November 21, 2012 um 1:45 pm

Never heard of parsnip cake but makes total sense. Thanks for opening my mind!


Anonymous November 21, 2012 um 2:21 pm

The cake looks awesome! Can't wait to try out the recipe.


Iva November 21, 2012 um 2:38 pm

reading your blog , seeing all the beautiful pictures is such an inspiration to me ! I would love to have that book !


allie November 21, 2012 um 3:10 pm

What a treat your workshop must have been.
Julie's food philosophy sounds perfect. I never would have dreamed up a parsnip cake, but your description makes me anxious to give this a try.


Becky November 21, 2012 um 3:29 pm

Love the idea of a parsnip cake!


Cynthia Flores November 21, 2012 um 5:24 pm

Love your blog and all the beautiful pictures with recipes!!!


Steeno November 21, 2012 um 6:10 pm

Awesome! Thanks for the giveaway 🙂


Teri S. November 21, 2012 um 7:46 pm

Parsnip cake…I'm definitely going to have to try that! I'm glad you are settling into your new house and job. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!


Unknown November 21, 2012 um 7:50 pm

Parsnip is a royal vegetable, so good and so versatile. Carrot, beetroot, parsnip? Vegetable cakes = super tastiness.


Laura November 21, 2012 um 8:35 pm

Looks so yummy! Can't wait to try it!


Unknown November 21, 2012 um 8:37 pm

Sounds yummy! Great pictures, too! Can't wait to try the cake!


Charlette Finley November 21, 2012 um 8:55 pm

Oh my I wish I had been blog hopping sooner. I would have made this beautiful cake for Thanksgiving! But I used my parsnips already. But I will be trying this very soon. Thanks for the chance to win a NEW cookbook.


Kim November 21, 2012 um 9:52 pm

This cake looks lovely and the book too!


Katy Penrod November 21, 2012 um 9:57 pm

I've only ever had parsnips in a savory preparation, this looks yummy!


Moni November 21, 2012 um 11:13 pm

Yummy, I must try this recipe, I don't like carrots and I love carrot cake, Im sure with this it will happen the same.Thanks for the link to Jeanne's flour.
Love your photography book! It's on my shelve


Julia P November 22, 2012 um 12:22 am

Gorgeous cake! Thanks for the give-away – I'd love to be the lucky one to win the cookbook!


xuxu November 22, 2012 um 1:21 am

Your cakes and recipes are always amazing!!! I am starting my own blog too. Always hope to take such great pics like yours someday


Jocelyn + Cathy November 22, 2012 um 1:50 am

hehe the eggs look so pretty! never thought of parsnip cake before!


Cathy November 22, 2012 um 1:52 am

i think it's time to go buy some parsnips…hahha 😀


milliestar November 22, 2012 um 2:02 am

So neat to see a Kiwi cook mentioned on your blog – i'm a Kiwi and have been a huge fan of Julie's for years. This cake sounds sensational!!


Alexia Parada November 22, 2012 um 3:48 am

Helene we need Parsnips in Mexico! I will love to do this recipe!


Unknown November 22, 2012 um 3:50 am

The cookbook sounds lovely!


Sara H. November 22, 2012 um 4:38 am

Made By Hand looks like an excellent cookbook! I love all of your recipes! Thanks so much for the giveaway!


kellygreene1978 November 22, 2012 um 4:40 am

That cake looks yummy!


Andreea November 22, 2012 um 6:38 am

too bad my parsnips went bad before I saw this recipe, it sounds delicious!


queencake and titangirl November 22, 2012 um 7:27 am

thank you so much for the giveaway!i looooove cookbooks and this one sounds great.best from berlin,anja


Tori November 22, 2012 um 7:34 am

To be honest, I have never made a cake with any vegetable beisdes carrot, so this post was a somewhat surprise for me, but I think I'll try it; it'll be a nice change. And as always, your pictures are gorgeous.


Simo November 22, 2012 um 12:40 pm

Passare da te è sempre un piacere…posso partecipare anche io al Giveaway?
Un carissimo saluto da Simona


dulcestriplea November 22, 2012 um 3:20 pm

Me encanta, un beso


Anonymous November 22, 2012 um 4:22 pm

Parsnip cake is so inventive! Can't wait to try it.

[email protected]


Lin K. November 22, 2012 um 5:49 pm

An interesting idea for parsnips!

I'd like to enter the giveaway as well, thanks! 🙂


Ruth Parson November 22, 2012 um 6:36 pm

And here I thought French fried parsnips took the cake! Ready to bake that parsnip cake for the next celebration.


Patricia from Sabores y Momentos November 22, 2012 um 6:43 pm

This cake looks amazing!!! I´m definitely trying it, I use parsnip quite a lot in different recipes, I´m sure I´ll love it! The cookbook it´s a wish!


Collette November 22, 2012 um 7:57 pm

Wow, can't wait to try making it. I grew up planting and growing a garden with my father, He planted almost every vegetable know to man, but I have never had a parsnip cake. Thank you for sharing.
Collette


Becca November 22, 2012 um 8:29 pm

This cake looks so delicious, I must try it! And what a great giveaway 🙂


Irene November 22, 2012 um 8:56 pm

Oh, this cookbook is awesome. And I'd like to have a piece of that cake. Yum!
Greetings from Austria
Irene

norrlandsguldtjej(at)gmail(dot)com


Jen Laceda | Milk Guides November 23, 2012 um 6:42 am

I'd love to win Julie's cookbook! Please throw my name in the hat 🙂 Fingers crossed!


Sara November 23, 2012 um 6:56 am

So interesting! I've never thought of using parsnip in a sweet application!


Magda November 23, 2012 um 1:48 pm

I've never seen a parsnip cake before. I can't imagine how it tastes, which means that I have to give it a try to find out. Thanks for a wonderful recipe, Helene!


Tracy November 23, 2012 um 4:06 pm

My husband loves parsnips! I'd love to try this recipe.


Kate Gesel November 23, 2012 um 4:30 pm

I absolutely LOVE baking with vegetables! This recipe will most certainly be made soon!


Patricia Scarpin November 23, 2012 um 4:48 pm

I'm a long time fan of Le Clerc's work (her "Little Cafe Cakes" is absolutely wonderful!) and it's great to know she has a new book coming out. Beautiful cake, Helen!


Anonymous November 23, 2012 um 5:40 pm

Not sure what I'm looking forward to more – hearing more about your house or your amazing recipes!


Anonymous November 23, 2012 um 7:35 pm

That is such a wonderful giveaway; I'd love to hold that book in my hands.


Tressie Lynn November 23, 2012 um 8:22 pm

Love your photography! So beautiful! And this cake looks especially yummy.


Tiffany @ Savor Home November 23, 2012 um 10:28 pm

Hi Helene! I miss you! It looks like you had another group of talented women the week after I left. So fun! I am also glad that things are coming together at your new home. This cake looks amazing and Im intrigued by the parsnips!


Anonymous November 24, 2012 um 12:08 am

I love parsnips so will be trying this cake soon. Thanks for a chance to win Julie's cookbook !!


Pallavi November 24, 2012 um 2:18 am

What a wonderful and unusual recipe…beautifully presented – as always. I surely like the use of cardamom over cinnamon – will definitely give it a try. Thanks!


Margaret@KitchenFrau November 24, 2012 um 2:21 am

This just sounds so amazing and different I want to try it. What creative thinking.


yen November 24, 2012 um 4:33 am

Hi, your blog is beautiful:D. Though I can not bake but looking at your blog makes me feel at peace.Keep on!


Kyle Pratt November 24, 2012 um 5:07 am

Thank you for the giveaway


Deborah November 24, 2012 um 11:20 am

I'd love to win it, looks lovely. The cake I'm most certainly going to try.


BrainyBeautys November 24, 2012 um 6:22 pm

& yum. Ready to eat this cake now.


Diane November 24, 2012 um 11:23 pm

The book looks beautiful!
[email protected]


Pamela November 25, 2012 um 5:19 am

How did I not think of ever using parsnips in a cake??? I love parsnips, turnips, carrots–give me a root vegetable or tuber and I'm happy! This is great and I will definitely try it very very soon.


Anna November 25, 2012 um 11:09 am

I know it's a bit ambitious as far as student food goes, but I can't wait to try it! And I'd love to win the book.


mimi November 25, 2012 um 2:06 pm

fabulous recipe. and your photography – WOW!!!!!


Unknown November 27, 2012 um 5:28 am

The cake looks wonderful.


isra November 29, 2012 um 10:28 am

I bet this is very yummy! 😉


Lesley December 1, 2012 um 9:19 pm

Having made this cake before, I can testify that it is absolutely delicious. Anyone worried about using parsnips, forget it and just bake it. Way better than carrot cake – it just needs a more appealing name! Having met Julie recently, I can also agree with you on how lovely she is – genuine and kind.


yengbamboo June 13, 2013 um 8:22 am

lovely!


jasminecurtney July 25, 2013 um 2:42 am

thank u for sharing this to us!


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