Chocolate Sponge Cake with Berry Diplomat Cream

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November 20, 2025

A stunning three-layer Chocolate Sponge Cake on a pedestal, iced with white buttercream and chocolate ganache drip, decorated with candied orange slices, chocolate shards, and frosted red currants for a festive winter dessert.

Bring a spectacular burst of Old World flavor into your home this winter with this Chocolate Sponge Cake with Berry Diplomat Cream. TABLE’s Italy correspondent Sara Ghedina was with her family in Venezia recently, and this cake mesmerized her from the window of a local bakery. Pastry chefs Andrea Marigo and Alessia Zarù of Pasticceria Regina graciously agreed to share their recipe with TABLE…and Sara took the picture. We believe that she ate the cake, too.

Chocolate Sponge Cake with Berry Diplomat Cream Recipe

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Chocolate Sponge Cake with Berry Diplomat Cream

Author: Sara Ghedina

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Description

The cake is made with chocolate Pan di Spagna (classic Italian sponge cake), a simple and airy cake typically flavored with vanilla, lemon zest or cocoa. The basic cake batter has only 3 ingredients: eggs, sugar, and flour, and it rises without baking powder, because a lot of air is incorporated by beating the eggs with the sugar for a long time. Pan di Spagna is often soaked with a liquor or fruit juice and layered with cream fillings. It is used in traditional desserts such as cassata, zuccotto, zuppa inglese and even tiramisu.

This one is filled with diplomat cream, a traditional Italian filling made combining two pastry staples such as pastry cream and French Chantilly cream. It is then covered and sealed with a layer of simple buttercream and decorated with dripping chocolate glaze and candied orange slices. It is the ultimate indulgence, and a decadent tribute to the art of pastry making.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chocolate Sponge Cake:

350gr/12oz sugar
280gr/10oz cake flour
35gr/1oz cocoa powder
500gr/18oz (about 10) large size eggs, room temperature

For the Filling (Crema Diplomatica):

Pastry Cream:

400gr/14oz milk
100gr/3½oz heavy cream
150gr/5½oz sugar
100gr/3½oz (about 5) large egg yolks
40gr/1½oz cornstarch

Chantilly Cream:

500gr/18oz heavy cream, cold
60gr/2oz powdered sugar
3/4 cup fresh raspberries

For the Icing:

Buttercream:

250gr/9oz butter, room temperature
500gr/18oz powdered sugar
1 tbsp rum

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Instructions

For the Chocolate Sponge Cake:

Take the eggs out of the fridge ahead of time as they need to be at room temperature for the batter to work. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Spray three 8” cake pans with baking spray or else butter and flour them. Beat eggs with sugar until they are very fluffy and pale yellow: it will take about 20 minutes using a stand mixer at medium/high speed. Sift flour with cocoa powder and add them to the egg mixture, a little at a time, folding the batter very gently with a wooden spoon.
Pour batter into prepared pans and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Turn off the oven but leave cakes inside for 5-10 minutes to allow them to cool down slowly.  Remove cakes from the oven and let them cool for 10 more minutes. Then loosen around the edges with a knife and flip them upside down on a wire rack to cool completely.

For the Filling:

Pastry Cream:

In a large pan, combine milk and heavy cream and slowly heat the mixture without boiling it.
Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, beat egg yolks with sugar, add corn starch and mix well until combined. Slowly add the warm milk and cream mixture and keep stirring until you get a smooth batter without lumps.
Bring the cream back to the stovetop on low heat and whisk continuously until it becomes thicker and turns into custard. Be careful not to overcook it. Transfer the pastry cream in a large bowl, cover with a plastic wrap and let cool completely.

Chantilly Cream:

Whip cold cream in a cooled container. Once half-whipped, add powdered sugar. Continue blending with an electric whisk until the desired result is achieved. The more you whip the cream, the lighter and airier it will be at the end.
To make the diplomat cream, once the pastry cream has cooled off completely, incorporate the whipped cream into it, folding it in with a spatula from top to bottom to avoid losing volume. Carefully add fresh raspberries and mix until combined.

For the Icing:

Buttercream:

Using a stand mixer, beat butter until soft. Add half of the icing sugar and beat until smooth. Add remaining icing sugar and rum and beat the mixture until creamy and smooth, about 8-10 minutes.
You can make the icing in advance and keep it in the fridge until ready to use it. Remember to remove it from the refrigerator at least 2 hours before, allowing it to become soft and easier to spread.

To Mount the Cake:

Place one 8” sponge cake on top of a cake stand or serving tray and spread it with 1/2 of the berry diplomat cream. Gently layer the second cake on top and spread the remaining cream on it. Cover with the last round of sponge cake.
Using a spatula, carefully cover the whole cake with the softened buttercream.
If you’d like you could cover it with a layer of chocolate glaze and decorate it with candied orange slices and frosted red currants.

Notes

The recipe is for an 8” diameter, 3-layer cake.

Recipe adapted by pastry chefs Andrea Marigo and Alessia Zarù of:

Pasticceria Regina
Via Bissuola 110
30173 Mestre, Venezia
Italy

Photography and Styling by Sara Ghedina
Cake by Pasticceria Regina, Mestre, Venezia, Italy.

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Charred Sweet Potatoes with Dukkah, Goat Cheese & Herbs

By

Abdul Rafay

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November 20, 2025

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Charred sweet potato rounds and herbs served on a bed of whipped goat cheese, sprinkled with dukkah and fried shallots, presented on a black oval platter with a rustic black spoon and small glasses of amber liquid.

Dukkah is an Egyptian nut and seed condiment you would find on anyone’s table in Egypt. Made from just about any kind of nut or seed, this versatile sauce is typically used for dipping vegetables or bread.

“The first time I had Dukkah, I was in a market in Jerusalem,“ says private chef Brandon Blumfeld. “I bought it from a street vendor, and it came in a plastic bowl with bread for dipping. I ate it standing up as we walked around the market.”

Charred Sweet Potatoes with Dukkah, Goat Cheese & Herbs Recipe

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Charred Sweet Potatoes with Dukkah, Goat Cheese & Herbs

Author: Brandon Blumenfeld

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Description

This dish pairs smoky charred sweet potatoes with creamy goat cheese and a crunchy, spiced dukkah topping. Finished with fresh herbs and a bright dressing, it’s a flavorful and elegant way to enjoy a classic Middle Eastern condiment.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Herb Sachet:

1 each dried chili
1 each bay leaf
5 whole black peppercorns
3 cloves garlic
1 sprig rosemary
2 sprigs thyme

Special Equipment:

8 x 8 square cheesecloth
1 foot of butcher’s twine

For the Sweet Potatoes:

2 pounds sweet potatoes
1/4 cup kosher salt
Herb sachet (recipe above)
8 quarts water
2 tablespoons canola oil
Big Pinch of kosher salt

For the Goat Cheese:

4 to 6 ounces Goat Rodeo goat cheese

For the Dukkah:

1 tablespoon each toasted then chopped in food processors
Almonds
Pistachio
Walnuts
Cashews
Sunflower seeds
Sesame seeds
Mix nut and seed mixture with:
2 tablespoons crispy shallots
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
1/4 teaspoon ground caraway
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
3 tablespoons EVOO
2 teaspoon lemon juice
Salt, to taste

For the Herb Salad:

Big handfuls of coarsely chopped flat-leaf parsley, mint, and basil and red onion

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Instructions

For the Herb Sachet:

Put all ingredients in the center of cheesecloth. Roll cheesecloth from back to front, tucking the sides in like an egg roll.
Tie one end off with the butcher’s twine, then wrap around the body of sachet until you get to the other end. Tie opposite end into a knot.

For the Sweet Potatoes:

Wash your sweet potatoes under running water and place unpeeled potatoes in a large pot. Fill pot with cold water to cover potatoes and add salt and sachet.
Put a large plate on top of potatoes to keep them submerged. Turn on high heat until water boils then turn heat down to a gentle simmer for approximately 30 minutes, or until potatoes are tender enough to poke a hole through with no resistance.
Take potatoes out of water and cool completely. When potatoes are cool enough to handle, peel skins off using your hands. Slice potatoes to approximately 1/2-inch rounds.
Char sweet potatoes in a cast-iron skillet or on a grill using canola oil and salt. The potatoes should be a deep dark brown to black color on the exterior to get that smoky flavor we are looking for. Leave potatoes to cool to room temperature.

For the Goat Cheese:

Place goat cheese in a mixer with a paddle attachment and mix until very smooth and creamy.

For the Herb Salad:

Toss charred sweet potatoes with the Dukkah dressing. Add herbs and red onions, and toss gently, making sure not to bruise herbs too much.
On a big plate or platter, spread goat cheese in an even layer and put sweet potatoes on top and serve at room temperature.

Recipe by Brandon Blumenfeld
Styling by Quelcy Kogel
Photography by Adam Milliron

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6 Questions with Frank Falcinelli and Frank Castronovo of F&F Pizzeria

By

Samuel

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November 18, 2025

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Frank Falcinelli and Frank Castronovo of F&F Pizzeria standing outside of their new pizza restaurant in Mt. Lebanon Pennsylvania

The first week of service is underway for new Mt. Lebanon restaurant, F&F Pizzeria and we’ve got the behind-the-scenes inside scoop. Frank Falcinelli and Frank Castronovo, also known as “The Franks,” are the brains behind this Italian paradise. The two originally hail from Brooklyn but after years of running their pizzeria there, they decided Pittsburgh was the next best place. Their fare focuses on fresh ingredients directly from their Italian sources. This link to the Old Country leads to decadent crispy crust pizzas, indulgent pastas, vibrant salads, and much more. The Franks give us the run down on how F&F Pizzeria’s opening is going, and what you can look forward to when you visit.

Talking Pittsburgh Pizza, Italian Imports, and More with Frank Falcinelli and Frank Castronovo of F&F Pizzeria

Two men stand at a marble white pizza counter.

TABLE Magazine: Why Pittsburgh? Why Mt. Lebanon?

The Franks: Pittsburghers know good food. The pizza scene here is particularly exciting, with so many different family and neighborhood stories to explore. Nearly every style of pizza is represented and represented well. We’re honored to be a small part of this community.

TM: You have a line of imported Italian foods. Tell us about that, and how it adds to the food scene here in the ‘Burgh.

F&F: The foods we import represent us and what we do. They are the highest quality products that we can incorporate into our menu. It’s important that we maintain that quality wherever we are, Brooklyn or Pittsburgh. We offer this extension of what you experience in the restaurant, just packed for you to use at home. This is our way to let people continue the experience after they leave the restaurant.

Coincidentally, some of our best foods have been available in Pittsburgh at Whole Foods for over 15 years now.

TM: How do you plan to adapt your menu to appeal to Pittsburgh’s diverse affections for pizza while staying true to your New York roots?

F&F: There are definitely some different things on the menu in Pittsburgh than what we serve in Brooklyn, but the framework is still there. When it comes to the pizza, we are really proud to bring a new style of pizza to Pittsburgh. We want to give Pittsburgh a chance to try what we do.

TM: What makes your pizza special, and what do you think Pittsburghers will love most about it?

F&F: Our dough is very unique. It is naturally fermented dough and because we had our restaurant, Frankies Spuntino, for over 20 years, we have developed toppings for our pizza that are a little different than what someone would normally do. Our experience running full service restaurants has given us a point of view that distinguishes our pizza. We are chefs first and foremost and because of that we have the ability to enhance our pizza with ingredients but also develop a menu that complements pizza differently than a regular pizzeria menu.

TM: What is it like opening a restaurant in Pittsburgh? Are there wrinkles in the process that are different from NYC? Did you encounter some obstacles in finding a location, designing the restaurant, construction and permitting?

F&F: The spaces here are certainly bigger! We are in a beautiful community that is similar to where we are in Brooklyn, but this has felt a lot easier to open. Our partners, Rob Mullin and Anthony Simasek, are very close to this city. Rob lives here but they both have a deep understanding of Pittsburgh and have been a crucial part of making this happen from the permitting and construction perspective. One thing that seems to be universal between Brooklyn and Pittsburgh is the search for talented people. Its’ important to have a strong, solid team. People who are passionate about hospitality, ready to learn. We are always looking for people to come join our team!

TM: Name three things a first timer should order at Frank’s and why.

F&F: First, try all the pizzas. They might seem familiar, but the dough is what sets us apart. If you have never had a clam pie, this is your chance.

Second, our homemade arancini are authentically Sicilian and won’t disappoint.

Third, try the salads – especially the Big Green Salad. We like to lighten up the menu with delicious, nutritious dishes that are vegetable-forward and healthier additions to your meal. We’ll have more coming to the menu in the coming weeks.

Let us squeeze in a fourth while we have your attention: Wine! With the help of our world class sommelier team from Brooklyn and Nashville, we have selected some amazing, delicious and affordable wines. Wine doesn’t have to be expensive to be great, and we have great access to some of the best that you can get.

Photo Courtesy of Rose Colored Creative for F&F Pizzeria

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The 12 Zodiac Signs’ Winter Horoscope for 2025/2026

By

Wade Caves

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November 14, 2025

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A person walking through the winter forest at night.

Winter begins at the Capricorn ingress, when the Sun crosses into the southernmost sign. This year’s solstice chart is unusually concentrated: the Moon sits at 17° Capricorn, the exact degree where the Sun, Mars, and Venus will all align in early January: the season’s opening weeks will be particularly active. The solstice astrology does not remain latent for long; it moves rapidly into visibility, with themes ripening quickly after the turn of the year.

Four signatures stand out, those being the Sun’s applications to Mars and Venus, the Moon’s opposition to a retrograde Jupiter, and the Moon’s conjunction with Vega, the brightest star in Lyra.

The Two Celestial Fires Conjoin

The first current is a surge of energy. The Sun’s application to Mars describes drive, assertion, and activity rising to the surface. It can be productive – courage to take on difficult tasks, stamina to push through obstacles – but it also inclines us toward impatience and a temptation to overreach. Mars is hot and quick by nature, and when joined to the Sun the effect is often intensified, pushing events forward whether or not conditions are ready. In practical terms, that shows up as bold initiatives, sudden confrontations, or the pursuit of risk for its own sake. The season begins with this push and much depends on whether that energy finds constructive outlets or burns itself out in excess. Because this contact perfects within weeks of the solstice, the turn of the year is likely to bring decisive and visible developments, not background rumblings.

The Coupling of the Sun and Venus

After its union with Mars, the Sun is met by an approaching Venus, and the quality of expression changes from heat and drive into charm, sociability, and the pursuit of pleasure. This configuration amplifies themes of connection. It favors creative work, partnership, and displays of charm, though it also points to indulgence or prioritizing appearances.

As Venus becomes more emphasized, its influence will mean that presentation and finish start getting some attention. Form, color, and arrangement become levers for progress, whether that’s in a business pitch, a piece of writing, or the setting of a table. What moves ahead in this period often does so because it looks and feels right, not because some argue it down to its technical core. That can accelerate outcomes, smoothing coordination across teams or circles, but it also raises the risk of shallow agreements or last-minute scope creep when aesthetics overtake function.

The same signature works in negotiations and relationships. Progress comes from civility, favors, and gestures rather than pressure. It is easier to open doors and secure goodwill, but also easier to concede too much to keep the atmosphere pleasant. The strength of this period is access and refinement; the liability is terms that require review once the charm has passed.

Final Months of Jupiter Retrograde

The solstice Moon stands opposite Jupiter, now retrograde. Jupiter is the planet of growth and advantage, but when retrograde, its help arrives with conditions. Instead of straightforward liberality, arenas that describe themselves in terms of virtue find themselves in a state of review: courts revisiting arguments, financial plans pulled back for audit, friendships tested on questions of trust, optimism tempered by practical constraints. The Moon’s opposition sharpens this tension. Immediate needs push forward, while the systems or social networks that usually provide relief move at a slower pace. It is the mismatch between urgency and procedure – an ally inclined to wait before stepping in, a decision that lingers despite pressure to conclude, resources assumed to be ready but caught in clearance, etc.

Jupiter often serves as a release valve, offering luck, loopholes, or a timely reprieve. In retrograde and opposed by the Moon, that escape hatch shouldn’t be relied on – spring has better circumstances for general ‘good luck.’ Importantly, Jupiter is not advancing new terrain – retrograde motion shows that the points of conflict or negotiation will likely be familiar, revisited from earlier in the year. The solstice chart sets this as an underlying theme: emotional tides will pull against broader systems of belief or authority throughout the season.

The Moon Aligns with the Brilliant Star Vega

The brightest star in the constellation of the Lyre lends a distinct tone to the season. Lyra, the lyre, is the instrument that Mercury gives to Orpheus, whose song enchanted even the dead. Ancient sources emphasize both the artistry and the danger of this constellation: its music could soothe, persuade, and inspire, but also mislead or beguile.

Vega, Lyra’s alpha star, was associated with refinement, artistry, and prominence, but also with changeability and tendencies toward excess. With the Moon on Vega at the solstice, the season carries both the promise of creative expression and the risk of being seduced by one’s own tune. Roman astrologer Manilius described the influence of this constellation as inducing us to sing ourselves “some secret strain… which can charm no ears but [our] own.”

That image captures the practical edge of this influence. Work may be polished and sincere yet fail to travel beyond its immediate circle. Some projects will resonate widely, drawing attention and admiration; others may be left in rehearsal, appreciated only by their makers.

Institutions and public figures face the same test. Presentations may be crafted with care, but if they miss the tone of their audience, they risk being judged as ornamental or self-indulgent. Artistry, refinement, and polish are not guarantees of reception.

At the same time, Manilius’s phrasing points to another danger: self-enchantment. A song that charms no ears but one’s own can be a pathway to delusion. This is the emperor’s-new-clothes effect, where we believe our own press, or leaders or institutions mistake their rhetoric for reality. Scales fall from the eyes of others even as the performer remains convinced of the beauty of their tune.

Your Winter Horoscope for 2025/2026 Based on Your Zodiac Sign

In general, spring looks like the fresh breath of air many have been waiting for – but the seeds for that begin now. Winter is the season of slowing down, conserving strength, and exercising discipline, those Saturnian habits that may not feel exciting but turn into valued rituals as we age and see the wisdom in moving at a steadier pace. With so much activity concentrated in Cancer and Capricorn, and carried through Aries and Libra, these signs are set for the most dynamic, pulsating season. It also marks a reprieve for the mutable signs, who have had a long stretch of Saturn’s pressure in Pisces. That chapter is nearly done, with Saturn shifting into Aries for good in early 2026. Let’s see what guidance the stars offer for your sign in your horoscope for winter 2025/2026.

Aries

The Sun and Mars conjoin in your midheaven this winter, pushing your work and reputation into clear view. Make sure the credit you’re receiving matches the effort you’re giving, because this is a period when recognition can arrive quickly (and others will want to claim it). Early January also plants strong seeds for romance, so don’t overlook chances to pursue what excites you personally. And here’s something unusual to say with confidence: it’s an excellent season to invest in fine jewelry, shared with Capricorn.

Taurus

You’ve got a busy ninth house this season, which could mean
time spent in places of higher learning, travel to far-off and beautiful locations, or a reconnection with a spiritual tradition – whether personal or shared in community. These are good avenues to lean into, and the new year looks truly rejuvenating for you in all respects. If things have felt tight, that was down to the Venus–Saturn square now behind you. With that tension easing, there’s plenty to look forward to.

Gemini

This winter highlights how much of your attention is invested in others, perhaps one person in particular. That’s not a problem – it’s healthy to step into someone else’s world – but the value comes from feeling with them, not just analyzing from the sidelines. Gemini can think through another’s position with ease, but sometimes forgets to share the experience directly. Let the heart do some of the work. Otherwise the season might tip you toward a kind of restlessness you don’t really need.

Cancer

This winter favors clear conversations with the people you’ve made commitments with. Partners and close allies seem well positioned to give what you’re asking for, and a direct but gentle request should be enough to move things forward. They’ll likely recognize it as the right step. Recent good fortune has carried you through some challenges, but this isn’t the moment to lean on luck or assume the streak continues. Keep your approach practical and grounded; broader support returns by late winter and early spring.

Leo

This winter may find you stepping into the workhorse role – doing more, covering gaps, and picking up tasks others leave behind. The catch is that much of this effort may go unnoticed or unacknowledged, which can drain energy quickly. With burnout on the rise, it’s worth paying close attention to how you manage your load. Boundaries will help, just keep in mind what is meant by that: boundaries aren’t rules for others’ behavior, they’re guidelines for what you can tolerate without falling out of character.

Virgo

This season brings signatures of change in the workplace. Leadership shifts, departmental reshuffles or reorganizations are likely, and these can cut both ways. Sometimes they create openings for unplanned promotions; other times they result in redundancies. Pay attention to your environment and use common sense – if nothing seems amiss, stay alert anyway, since Uranus is the planet stirring these changes and it rarely gives notice. On the brighter side, it’s an excellent time to cultivate new creative strengths or hobbies while the dust settles.

Libra

This winter points to a busier professional stretch, with early year developments that look promising. What you direct your energy toward tends to draw support and momentum, so it’s worth being deliberate about where your focus goes – efforts made coming into the season can gain real traction. The broader tone is positive and suggests growth in career and reputation. At the same time, keep an eye on household expenses. More time indoors may tempt upgrades or projects that outpace the budget if left to go their own way.

Scorpio

This season points to more motion than usual. If your work involves travel, expect the pace to pick up; if not, new opportunities closer to home may open that still keep you on the move. Developments about a week into the new year look especially active, so keep an eye out for shifts that change your rhythm. It’s also a strong period for writing, building communication skills, or taking up steady movement-based activities. New Year’s resolutions tied to fitness may come easier as a result!

Sagittarius

The early part of winter may bring a major outlay or the arrival of funds through a loan or payout. Either way, it throws light on your approach to money and resources. The temptation to splurge will be strong, but exercising some restraint will spare regret later. This season favors dialing things back, keeping spending practical, and investing more time indoors with friends and loved ones. That slower rhythm offers warmth and connection, balancing out them financial caution the astrology suggests.

Capricorn

Early January highlights your sign with strong professional prospects – after a demanding stretch, it feels like good fortune is circling back. This season also supports the stabilization of intimate dynamics, especially with partners you share commitments with, whether in business or romance. The emphasis is on strengthening bonds that matter most. International travel, however, may prove trickier. If you’re heading abroad, approach it with extra care: confirm details, double-check logistics, and guard against the kind of small errors that cause outsized delays.

Aquarius

Life is in transition, and you probably noticed your summer
and fall felt more removed from the usual flow of society. Winter seems to continue that theme, but it looks like the reason is that you’re occupied with big, important work. There also appears to have been a recent loss – tender and emotional – which may explain a turn inward. Whatever the cause, spring promises a very different outlook. Use this season to finish what needs closing, both practical and personal.

Pisces

This winter favors you with signatures for warmth and friendship. It’s an excellent time to deepen bonds with people already in your circle, letting those connections bring ease after several difficult astrological years. The season is lighter, and you’re encouraged to let yourself unwind. You may also see changes among superiors or mentors, and if so, it’s a good moment to think about how your support systems can be updated to match. Minor frictions with middle management aside, the outlook is encouraging.

Horoscope Author

Wade Caves, based in Brooklyn, NY, is an astrological consultant and educator specializing in problem-solving applications of astrology. He teaches astrological divination and astronomy at the School of Traditional Astrology. Wade also publishes his work on world astrology through Skyscript’s In Mundo publishing desk. He even hosts the World Astrology Summit. A conference dedicated to the advancement of astrology for global problem-solving. Website: wadecaves.com • skyscript.co.uk/inmundo. Email: hello@wadecaves.com.

Story by Wade Caves
Photo Courtesy of Ira Ostafiichuk

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The Benoit Blanc, a Cocktail for Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery

By

Kylie Thomas

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November 14, 2025

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A cocktail for benoit blanc in knives out with a in a glass in a pale yellow color with a red float on top, lemon twist and knife through it all.

Who doesn’t love Benoit Blanc from the Knives Out series of movies? In honor of Netflix’s release of Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, The Benoit Blanc is a sophisticated, multi-layered cocktail that mirrors the brilliant detective himself. Think of a Whiskey Sour, traditional, complex, resilient. We’re using smooth bourbon, fresh lemon juice, and a frothy egg white to provide a plush, velvety texture. It’s a feeling similar to Blanc’s luxurious and unforgettable wares. The “clue” here is the dramatic float of Cabernet Sauvignon. We pour it gently over a spoon to create a bloody, crimson layer. It sits on top of the pale yellow cocktail. Talk about a mystery in a cocktail!

**What is Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery About?**

The third installment of Netflix’s hit series, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, follows our favorite quirky detective Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) to a secluded Catholic parish in upstate New York. The mystery revolves around the murder of the controversial Monsignor Jefferson Wicks (Josh Brolin). When the newly assigned Father Jud Duplenticy (Josh O’Connor) comes into the parish, he becomes a key suspect. Now, it’s up to Blanc to solve this mystery set in a gothic paradise.

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The Benoit Blanc, a Cocktial for Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery

Author: Sarah Cascone
Yield: Makes 1

Print Recipe

Description

An ode to our favorite detective in classic cocktail form.

Ingredients

Scale

2 oz bourbon
1 oz fresh squeezed lemon juice
¾ oz simple syrup
½ – 1 oz Cabernet Sauvignon
1 egg white

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Instructions

In a cocktail shaker, add the bourbon, lemon, simple, and egg white. Shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. Do this without ice to emulsify the egg. This is called a dry shake.
Then add ice and shake for another 15 seconds.
Strain pour into a rocks glass (with or without ice). Float the cabernet by pouring it over the back of a spoon into the glass. This creates a layered effect.
Garnish with a lemon twist.

Recipe by Sarah Cascone
Styling by Anna Franklin
Photography by Dave Bryce

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The Upside Down Cocktail for Stranger Things Season 5

By

Kylie Thomas

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November 14, 2025

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Two glasses of an orange cocktail with cherry and pineapple wedge garnishes.

The world has been waiting in anticipation since 2022 for the last and final season of Stranger Things and finally the time has come. Dive into season five of this global phenomenon with The Upside Down cocktail. This haunting cocktail channels the otherworldly dimension of Stranger Things as well as the flavor of a pineapple upside down cake. We’re blending the comforting taste of vanilla vodka with tropical pineapple juice. Then we layer a striking red splash of grenadine, reminding us that few come back from the Upside Down. As you settle in for the release of part one on November 26, part two on Christmas, and the final episode on New Year’s Eve, mix up this cocktail to savor every last moment (and cross your fingers your fav makes it out alive).

**What Happens in Stranger Things Season 5?**

The epic finale of Stranger Things is not to be missed. In the fall of 1987 the entire town of Hawkins is under military quarantine as the Upside Down merges with the real world. This last season’s core plot will come full circle as Will Byers (Noah Schnapp) faces his villain again, Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) heads back into hiding while preparing for the final confrontation, and new character, Dr. Kay (Linda Hamilton) chases after Eleven throughout it all.

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The Upside Down Cocktail for Stranger Things Season 5

Author: Sarah Cascone

Print Recipe

Description

One final goodbye to one of our favorite series.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 oz Faber Vanilla Vodka
3 oz pineapple juice
Splash of grenadine syrup
Maraschino cherry
Pineapple wedge

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Instructions

Fill a rocks glass with ice. Add a splash of grenadine over the ice.
Pour in the pineapple juice and vanilla vodka.
You can stir to blend or leave with a slight layered effect.
Garnish with a pineapple wedge and cherry.

Recipe by Sarah Cascone
Styling by Anna Franklin
Photography by Dave Bryce

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Recipes Using Espresso for National Espresso Day

By

Kylie Thomas

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November 14, 2025

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A cocktail glass is filled with a Espresso Spritz, garnished with an orange and sitting on a blue table surrounded by Nespresso pods.

Get ready for a caffeine high as we celebrate National Espresso Day on November 23 with delicious espresso recipes. This day is a tribute to the rich, bold essence of highly concentrated coffee that often gets us through our days. Whether you’re enhancing the chocolate notes in a fudgey brownie, adding a layer of depth to a creamy filling, or simply elevating your traditional cocktail, espresso is the perfect secret for sophistication and fun. We’re featuring recipes that take you beyond your morning mug of coffee, showcasing how this mighty innovation can go a long way

Recipes Using Espresso for National Coffee Day

Espresso Swirl Cheesecake

A cheecake with espresso swirl and chocolate feather garnishes sits on a wood table beside two plates with slices and nespresso pods.

Imagine one of your favorite desserts combined with the flavors of rich, decadent espresso. Our Espresso Swirl Cheesecake is made simple with the use of leftover Nespresso pod grounds. Bite into a homemade graham cracker crust and creamy, pillowy filling with a kick. We even include cheesecake baking tips so you can create a successful product regardless of your skill level.

Halloween Espresso Brownies

A Halloween brownie in a sheet pan drizzled to look like a spider web.

While it isn’t quite October, we think September 29 is close enough so why not celebrate National Coffee Day and spooky season at the same time? Plus, you don’t have to decorate these Espresso Brownies in spider webs. Instead, customize them for any event, the rich flavor is enough to keep you coming back.

Toasted Marshmallow Espresso Martini

When the evening has settled and the guests have gone, break out this Toasted Marshmallow Espresso Martini for a relaxing, nostalgia trip in a glass. We’re upgrading the classic espresso martini to include a toasted marshmallow simple syrup that you can use in other drinks as well. Top it all off with an actual roasted marshmallow and let yourself slip into the mindset of sitting by a campfire.

Espresso Martini, A Cocktail for Sagittarius

A espresso martini cocktail for Sagittarius sits in a glass, topped with espresso powder with a crystal gem to the left.

An Espresso Martini is not just for Sagittarius but it does help if you have their expressive energy. This classic recipe uses coffee liqueur, vodka, and espresso to make the cocktail of your dreams. It’s strong, sweet, and a bit bitter all at once.

Nespresso Affogato

Italy’s espresso, dessert infusion is getting made even simpler with our Nespresso Affogato. All it takes is a scoop of your favorite ice cream and quick brewing by Nespresso to have the perfect affogato in mere seconds. No more complicated instructions to receive that indulgence of hot and cold, bitter and sweet. Plus you can customize your recipe with different varieties of Nespresso pods.

Espresso Negroni

We won’t be leaving the Negroni lovers out of National Coffee Day. This aperitif or after-dinner drink gets you buzzing with a dose of espresso followed by the classic taste of a Negroni. The Espresso Negroni is like the Espresso Martini and Negroni had the perfect child!

Espresso Spritz

When relaxing on a hot day, cool yourself down with our Espresso Spritz. This refreshing mixture of espresso and tonic can help you kickstart your day or give you an evening pick-me-up. Plus, the splash of fresh orange juice adds a citrusy touch that brings the espresso and tonic together. Or, you can experiment with your own favorite cocktail additions to modify the flavor.

Espresso Whiskey Martini

If you are not a martini or vodka fan, mix up an Espresso Whiskey Martini for an extra kick. This cocktail hits harder than a regular Espresso Martini. Plus, you’ll find the addition of sweet, hazelnut-y Frangelico as a happy welcome.

Mocha Truffles

Did you know Mocha Truffles can be a tasty, sugar-free treat to serve at your next gathering? The recipe engages simplicity too with just five ingredients being all your need and easy instructions. They’re also sure to relieve your sweet tooth when rolled in topping of unsweetened cocoa powder, chopped nuts, or freeze dried fruit.

Cardamom and Clove Oat Milk Latte

A latte in a yellow cup sits amongst various ingredients and a nespresso machine brewing a shot of espresso.

Let the spices of fall and winter join your morning coffee routine. This Cardamom and Clove Oat Milk Latte helps you wake up with warming flavors and a creamy finish. The best part is learning to make a Cardamom and Clove Simple Syrup that you can use in cocktails as well.

Pumpkin Spice Latte Martini

an overhead shot of two cocktails in martini glasses. down in color, with shaved chocolate on the rim, the pumpkin spice cocktails are garnished with a cinnamon stick

We couldn’t have an ode to National Coffee Day without the number one drink, the Pumpkin Spice Latte. Our martini version is perfect for those hard days after work where you need a little pick me up and a little comfort.

Shakerato Iced Caffè Corretto

An iced caffè coretto with a garnish of anise.

You have the choice to customize your own Shakerato with either limoncello, Sambuca, or Amaretto. Depending on the flavor profile you prefer then this simple mix of espresso and simple syrup either takes on citrusy, anise, or nutty notes.

Espresso Chocolate Spoons

On a grey table sits various spoons coated in chocolate and toppings with a red bow around each as a cup of espresso and a latte sit to the left of the spoons.

A little DIY project can turn into a coffee day or week gift for your friends and family. A couple of spoons from Dollar Tree, melted chocolate, and instant espresso powder can take your morning cup of coffee to the next level. Simply let your spoon rest in a cup of hot milk and voila!

Chocolate Espresso Martini

Take your Espresso Martini up a notch by using freshly brewed espresso and Dirty Chocolate Cream Liqueur. Don’t forget the extra shavings on top for a smooth, chocolatey finish.

Story by Kylie Thomas

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Dessert Recipes to Fill the Thanksgiving Table

By

Kylie Thomas

-

November 14, 2025

0

A plate of Halloween cookies on a black background

Thanksgiving is a time of sharing, especially when it comes to the dessert table. While pumpkin pie is essential to Thanksgiving, there are plenty of other dessert recipes you can make instead. Or, you can even make these recipes in addition to your holiday favorites just to add a little something new to the table. Whether it’s a batch of sweet, decadent pumpkin cookies or a cake full of spice and tart cranberries, we’re sure your guests will enjoy a delectable treat to end the feast. Just be sure not to eat too much during dinner, you’ll want to save room for dessert.

Dessert Recipes to Fill the Thanksgiving Table

Spiced Cranberry Tart

If you don’t have a tart on your dessert table then this recipe is the perfect addition. Cranberry season is a gift to our taste buds and we’re taking full advantage of this time. Our Spiced Cranberry Tart takes this winter staple ingredient and blankets it in a crunchy, oat-based crust and cinnamon.

Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies

Can’t decide between cheesecake and pumpkin pie? Turns out you don’t have to if you make our Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies. These flavorful cookies have a smooth and luxurious cheesecake center that leaves you needing more than one. Plus when you decorate these cookies with pumpkins on top, it makes for a festive centerpiece to any table.

Apple Crisp

If you choose to go more traditional this holiday season, make up an Apple Crisp that’s warm and gooey, fresh out of the oven. Here, fresh orchard-picked apples join a medley of brown sugar, pecans, and cinnamon for a bite of fall in every spoonful. If you really want to treat your guests, you can add a scoop of ice cream on the side.

Spiced Mascarpone Cranberry Cake

Half a cranberry cake with cranberries and powdered sugar on top.

Store bought cakes or box mix just won’t work for this special gathering of friends and family. Bake up a Spiced Mascarpone Cranberry Cake that truly infuses all the essential ingredients of the transition to winter. Think cinnamon, orange zest, nutmeg, mascarpone cheese, and of course, plenty of cranberries. Not to mention, the presentation of this dessert is simply gorgeous.

Sweet Potato Cheesecake

Rather than sweet potato pie, try a Sweet Potato Cheesecake instead. It’s got a combination of sweet potato and pumpkin pie spice along with cream cheese to make a mouthwatering filling. The crust is also made of gingersnap cookies to add a little extra spice and some crunch to each bite you take.

Dutch Apple Pie with a Twist

A slice of Dutch Apple Pie sits on a white plate. Dutch Apple Pie recipe

Pie and the holidays go together like peanut butter and jelly. This Dutch Apple Pie with a Twist uses sour cream to create a creamy, tangy apple filling unlike any pie you’ve had before. Though, we have to say, the crumbly, crispy topping may be our favorite part of this warm slice of deliciousness.

Dark Rum Blondies

These Dark Rum Blondies offer a rich and sophisticated twist on the classic dessert bar, making them an ideal, grown-up treat for Thanksgiving. The chewy, buttery blondies are infused with dark rum, which deepens the sweetness of this treat.

Pumpkin Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust

Three slices of pumpkin cheesecake on brown plates are arranged on a multicolored surface, each slice topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Forget the pie this year, our Pumpkin Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust is the elegant, spiced centerpiece your holiday table needs. A velvety, pumpkin cream cheese filling cushions the warm, aromatic embrace of classic fall spices and a buttery crust made of gingersnaps.

Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

A green plate full of Martha Stewart cookies in chocolate chip and white chocolate strawberry varieties.

Inspired by Martha Stewart, these Soft and Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies are a quintessential holiday dessert. After all, who doesn’t love a chocolate chip cookie? But in case you want to switch things up there’s also a recipe here for a white chocolate strawberry version.

Story by Kylie Thomas

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Next Level Thanksgiving Recipes from Chef Cory Hughes

By

Abdul Rafay

-

November 14, 2025

0

A visually stunning and next level Thanksgiving feast, featuring a beautifully arranged plate with a centerpiece of roasted figs and ash-covered delicacies, showcasing the creativity and elevated flavors of a modern holiday celebration. — Cory Hughes in the kitchen at Fig & Ash.

For some, the best part of Thanksgiving is the food. Others put family, whether found or biological, at the heart of the holiday. Others, like chef Cory Hughes of Fig & Ash, choose a combination of both as long as the holiday ends with a nap.

“Thanksgiving is our first cold-weather holiday,” the chef says, “and I want warm, nourishing, stick-to-your-ribs kind of food… warm comfort food that is going to give me a nap afterward.”

Warm, earthy, delicious food is exactly what you’ll find in the Thanksgiving recipes Cory shares with TABLE readers. His menu of favorites includes classic dishes elevated by sporting twists like the turkey breast that takes a dip in the sous vide or the savory, earthy addition of squash to his turnover riff on apple pie. The chef’s layered flavors shine in delicious, creamy risotto and Brussels sprouts studded with salty, savory bites of venison jerky. A spicy hint of maple-chipotle butter adds a new level of taste to oven-roasted sweet potatoes.

And, Cory says, this menu makes the perfect post-Thanksgiving sandwich. “A little tiny turkey sandwich on a biscuit with gravy and a little cranberry sauce? That’s a dream.”

Next Level Thanksgiving Recipes with Chef Cory Hughes

Turkey Breast Sous Vide

An elevated take on the Thanksgiving classic, using the French “sous vide” technique to get maximum flavor from the meat.

Turkey Sausage Gravy and Flaky Biscuit

A comforting and savory dish featuring homemade flaky biscuits smothered in a rich and flavorful turkey sausage gravy, offering a hearty and satisfying breakfast or brunch option.

Gravy often gets pushed to the side, literally, on the plate. But in this recipe, paired with homemade biscuits, it gets to be the main event.

Baby Yams with Maple-Chipotle Compound Butter

Maple-chipotle butter is the star of the show in these tender yams from Cory Hughes. These yams prove that a little seasoning goes a long way.

Brussels Sprouts with Pomegranate Seeds and Venison Jerky

Roasted to perfection, these tender and flavorful Brussels sprouts make a delightful side dish, featuring a harmonious blend of earthy flavors and a hint of sweetness, complemented by a subtle smoky undertone.

Farro Risotto with Mushrooms and Taleggio

A wholesome and farro risotto made with earthy mushrooms, and indulgent Taleggio cheese, creating a delicious and satisfying dish with a rustic and comforting appeal.

Still prepping your Thanksgiving feast? Check out our other recipes to make this holiday the best yet.

Sweet Potato Sides

Stuffing Recipes

Dessert Recipes

Thanksgiving Drinks

Story by Maggie Weaver
Recipes by Cory Hughes
Photography by Dave Bryce

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9 Recipes Utilizing Apple Cider

By

Jordan Snowden

-

November 14, 2025

0

Sliced apples surrounded by liquid sit in two mason jars with handles — Photo by Alexander Mils

Maybe you can’t drink any more apple cider this season. Or maybe you’re simply looking for recipes to incorporate that wonderful spiced autumn flavor. From a mouthwatering chocolate cake to a somewhat healthy cocktail with kombucha, we’ve selected a few recipes for you to make use of the season’s abundance of apple cider. Plus, on November 18, you’ll want to make sure you have a jug of cider on hand for National Apple Cider Day. Any of the recipes below make for a delicious celebration.

Recipes for Celebrating National Apple Cider Day

Vegan Apple Cider Muffins

These Vegan Apple Cider Muffins are soft, fluffy, oil-free, and full of chunky apples and cinnamon spice. Delicious fresh out of the oven and even better finished with a streusel topping!

Cider-Glazed Pork Loin with Roasted Apples and Potatoes

A simple glaze makes this Cider-Glazed Pork Loin recipe a perfect weeknight dinner… but it’s also good enough for a special Sunday meal, too.

Cranberry Kombucha Apple Cider Rum Punch

A splendid winter sunset gifts us with a dose of color to liven up the somewhat gray tapestry of our dimmest season. This fruity punch does the same work with layers of color and fresh, lively flavors. Plus… kombucha, so it must be healthy too?

Gluten-Free Whole Grain Apple Cider Layer Cake

An Whole Grain Apple Cider Layer Cake covered in chocolate frosting and white decor like pinecone and cinnamon sticks.

Classic holiday spices and a hint of whiskey combine in this moist apple cake with a dark chocolate frosting. It’s gluten-free to please a holiday crowd. The cake in the photo was really festive with the garnishes, but it stands on its own if you’re not feeling so ornate.

Savory Stuffed Apples with Apple Cider Reduction

Savory Stuffed Apples served in small plates with four forks on the side

This allergy-free savory stuffed apple recipe works as a side dish for your holiday dinner or a festive standalone meal for one or two guests. With traditional Thanksgiving ingredients such as apples, turkey, wild rice, and lots of fresh herbs, it’s nostalgic and whimsical and will make your guests feel like they’re getting extra-special treatment.

Apple Cider Negroni

Three Orchard Negroni cocktails with blood orange wedges, garnished with red currants and surrounded by cookies.

This recipe is a cozy, bourbon-infused twist on the classic Negroni, swapping the traditional gin for bourbon and incorporating apple cider. The result is a smooth, pleasantly sweet, and slightly smoky cocktail that is perfect for sipping on chilly nights.

Apple Cider Pumpkin Bread

This quick bread combines the flavors of fresh pumpkin and sweet apple cider. Plus, we’re keeping you warm with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. A topping of sliced Gala apples, brown sugar, ginger, and chopped almonds crusts perfectly on top.

Apple Cider Manhattan Game Day Cocktail

2 identical whisky cocktails in rocks glasses, garnished with lemon peel with a black background

The traditional Manhattan gets a new face by adding fresh apple cider, which balances the bourbon and winter spices. Sip on a lovely combination of whiskey, red vermouth, apple cider, fresh lemon juice, and Angostura bitters. It’s a little less potent and a lot more delicious.

Apple Cider Margarita

A refreshing tang of lime and citrus notes of Cointreau are the perfect match for sweet apple cider. Whenever you finish our Apple Cider Margarita off with tequila, orange juice, and mulling spices, you get the fall season in a glass.

Story by Jordan Snowden

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Chocolate Sponge Cake with Berry Diplomat Cream Recipe

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Charred Sweet Potatoes with Dukkah, Goat Cheese & Herbs Recipe

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Talking Pittsburgh Pizza, Italian Imports, and More with Frank Falcinelli and Frank Castronovo of F&F Pizzeria

TABLE Magazine: Why Pittsburgh? Why Mt. Lebanon?

TM: You have a line of imported Italian foods. Tell us about that, and how it adds to the food scene here in the ‘Burgh.

TM: How do you plan to adapt your menu to appeal to Pittsburgh’s diverse affections for pizza while staying true to your New York roots?

TM: What makes your pizza special, and what do you think Pittsburghers will love most about it?

TM: What is it like opening a restaurant in Pittsburgh? Are there wrinkles in the process that are different from NYC? Did you encounter some obstacles in finding a location, designing the restaurant, construction and permitting?

TM: Name three things a first timer should order at Frank’s and why.

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Final Months of Jupiter Retrograde

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Your Winter Horoscope for 2025/2026 Based on Your Zodiac Sign

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Taurus

Gemini

Cancer

Leo

Virgo

Libra

Scorpio

Sagittarius

Capricorn

Aquarius

Pisces

Horoscope Author

What is Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery About?

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Instructions

What Happens in Stranger Things Season 5?

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Instructions

Recipes Using Espresso for National Coffee Day

Dessert Recipes to Fill the Thanksgiving Table

Next Level Thanksgiving Recipes with Chef Cory Hughes

Recipes for Celebrating National Apple Cider Day

Table Magazine

**What is Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery About?**

**What Happens in Stranger Things Season 5?**