I have been trying different recipes that are refined sugar-free. I replaced sugar with monk fruit, honey, and maple syrup. I invited my family this Sunday for homemade baked pastries and breakfast. I made breakfast cookies, muffins, breads, waffles, mousse, and chocolate treats. I used monk fruit, honey, and maple syrup in sensible quantities. A hibiscus lemon iced tea was also served, unsweetened, of course. I have been making a conscious effort to make healthier food choices. I wanted to share these breakfast goods with my family to inspire them to eat better as well and to enjoy their company.

I used a piece of Kraft paper to place the food items. I set up plates, glasses, utensils, and napkins. We sat together, talked, and laughed. It is great getting together with family, especially family that gets you. My sister and I are very close; I wish she lived closer sometimes. We have a beautiful sibling connection, and although at times not perfect since we are very different, it is a wonderful relationship. I prepared a few items the night before to save on time, and the rest the morning of the gathering, especially with the waffles and whipped cream. My sister Evy was talking about coming up with a Puerto Rican-inspired cafe menu for next time. She wants to learn to make Pastelon, which is a very popular Puerto Rican dish consisting of mashed plantains, seasoned beef, and mozzarella cheese. It is a lasagna-type dish. I mentioned wanting to try to make healthier versions of our favorite dessert. I think this might be an idea for our next meeting.

I made breakfast: peanut butter chocolate chip oatmeal cookies, almond yogurt bread, banana bread chocolate chip muffins, healthy chocolate mousse, oatmeal waffles with homemade whipped cream topped with a strawberry, and strawberry chocolate bites with sea salt. I placed the plates in a corner of the table and encouraged self-serve. We had a great time. My family was a little shocked; I think they’re not used to eating like this, but I’m sure they enjoyed the different flavors. The most popular items were the yogurt bread, chocolate mousse, and oat flour waffles.

My family was running late for brunch, but we made it happen. They were joking about how healthy everything looked, and I was afraid they would skip some of the items. I was very impressed that they were open to trying new food options. We exchanged gifts and stories. We called our little cafe experiment – Sazon Cafe, and everyone was giggling at the name. At one point, it was close to the early afternoon, and my guests started to get hungrier. I suggested we go to a nearby sushi place for lunch, which we headed for shortly after, and had a delicious meal. I provided containers for anyone who wanted to take items home. We had soft background music to set the ambiance throughout the whole time. I think this might become a regular get-together for sure!