Saturday was raining and cold once again.  I desired couch-potato status – just me, the remote, a fire and my kitty.  Instead, I was required to turn my kitchen into a laboratory.  I took the challenge from Big D and Poco del Chile to come up with a Valentine’s Day dessert.  This was my last weekend to experiment.

The final version, Raspberry Cappuccino Torte, was a very moist and dark mocha cake base filled with raspberry jam and cinnamon whipped cream, and topped with chocolate glaze and fresh raspberries.

Sunday, I carefully transported my samples to the Steakhouse.  I walked down the back hall (the lights were off, which was surprising), carrying my confectionary treats like gifts from the magi…only to realize the back door was locked (that’s odd!).  I made my way to the front of the store and came face to face with the big sign on the front door that read (gasp!):

“Closed February 7 for Super Bowl”

All I could say was, “Are you fucking kidding me???!!” for the next hour as I drove back home.

I’ve been thinking about this damn dessert for the last four or five weeks.  I spent a good portion of my Saturday (not to mention my own money) developing the right recipe.  I woke up on Sunday earlier than desired, got myself ready and drove to work – all for NOTHING???!!!

To say I was irked would be an understatement.  So, I took a picture for Big D and emailed it, explaining the “mix up” – and my neighbors got a special treat.

At this point, I don’t care if we make my dessert for Valentine’s Day or not.  I’m feeling “done” with the Steakhouse.  I don’t want to be a quitter, but this isn’t fun anymore.