It's been a while. It's been a whirlwind of a year, with a lot of changes. I spent a lot of time learning, doing, and thinking off the web. This new dessert for the year is something familiar. It's a cake I love, paired with only the essentials. Lately, I have been stripping down desserts only until it is all it needs. No unnecessary garnishes, no added flavors to sound "interesting." A thick and fluffy layer of black sesame cake. An equally smooth and nutty layer of black sesame cream. Lemongrass and ginger ice cream. Candied kumquats in wine and vanilla. My favorite black and white sesame tuile. It's nice to be back.