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Reignite Romance: Crafting the Perfect Picnic with Mini Chocolate Mason Jars and Cabernet Sauvignon

Discover how dark chocolate and sweet cherries, perfectly paired with a rich Cabernet Sauvignon, create an elegant outdoor dessert. These Mini Chocolate Mason Jars with Cherry Jam are the ideal sweet finish to any romantic picnic, fostering connection and cherished memories amidst nature.

Summer often brings a whirlwind of activities, pulling families in countless directions. Between sports practices, family vacations, and endless playdates, our schedules become packed. It’s not uncommon for my husband to be whisking our son off to a baseball game while I’m navigating traffic to get our daughter to gymnastics. Dinner sometimes feels like a quick transaction through a drive-thru window, and there are evenings when we barely see each other before bedtime.

Finding Time for Two: Escaping the Daily Rush

While I truly cherish the vibrancy of summer and love watching my children thrive in their activities, there’s a part of me that deeply misses the simple, quiet moments with my husband. The spontaneity of a last-minute movie date or a leisurely dinner where we could talk, uninterrupted, seems like a distant memory. Our children are our world, and we adore them fiercely, but every couple needs those precious opportunities to reconnect, share updates about their day, and simply remember why they fell in love.

Fortunately, we are blessed with incredibly supportive parents on both sides who are always eager to spend time with their grandchildren. This allows my husband and me to occasionally carve out a weekend just for ourselves. Last weekend, a wonderful opportunity arose when my mother-in-law, bless her heart, specifically asked if she could have the kids for a few days. We happily agreed, and the liberating realization that we had no plans for our newfound free time was exhilarating. Free time! What a concept for busy parents!

The Inspired Idea: A Romantic Picnic Adventure

I proposed an idea that I thought might be a little “out there” for him: a romantic picnic. Just the two of us, surrounded by nature, with good food and a couple of bottles of wine. To my delight, he readily agreed, and I almost swooned! He’s wonderful about embracing my sometimes-crazy ideas and going with the flow of my Type-A personality, which typically demands everything be planned to perfection. Naturally, my organizational instincts kicked in immediately.

My planning began with an intensive Google search for romantic picnic ideas, focusing on what to pack and, most importantly, what delicious foods to bring. I instantly recalled an inspiring article from Seasons magazine that featured an elegant charcuterie board. This seemed like the perfect starting point: light, refreshing, incredibly simple to assemble, and versatile enough to pair with both red and white wines. As a devoted cheese lover and with my husband being a true connoisseur of cured meats, a charcuterie board offered the ideal balance to kick off our romantic escape.

Crafting the Perfect Picnic Menu: Charcuterie & Portable Delights

Our chosen destination wasn’t far – just our beloved local nature park. However, we anticipated a short walk to reach our preferred serene spot, which meant portability was key for our picnic essentials. I headed to the store specifically to explore the wine department for something that would be light, non-bulky, and unbreakable. That’s when I discovered Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Stacked Wines. These ingenious single-serve wine cups are made of durable plastic and are perfectly stackable. They were an absolute revelation – ideal for a picnic, an outdoor concert, a camping trip, or any on-the-go adventure. I was instantly smitten and purchased both the Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon options. Their convenience and versatility made them perfect companions for our charcuterie board, ensuring both our palates would be satisfied.

For the charcuterie board, I opted for a mix of store-bought and homemade elements. I selected a delicious array of salami and prosciutto, briny olives, crunchy almonds, a variety of crackers, a fresh baguette, a few artisanal cheeses, and sweet grapes. To elevate the experience, I also prepared a few special additions: a zesty Spicy Mango Chutney Hummus (recipe coming soon!), a flavorful Roasted Garlic, Rosemary, and White Bean Spread (recipe also on its way!), and for a delightful sweet finish, my Mini Chocolate Mason Jars with Cherry Jam. These thoughtful touches transformed our simple picnic into a gourmet experience.

Our Perfect Afternoon: A Moment of Connection and Serenity

On a beautiful Saturday afternoon, with our bags packed, we set off to the nature park. The convenience of each carrying a light bag made the walk to our chosen spot effortless. We found a charming little dock overlooking the water, the perfect idyllic setting for our romantic picnic. Spreading out our cozy blanket, we began to arrange our feast. In less than ten minutes, our gourmet spread was ready, and we settled in to soak up the peaceful scenes of nature. With each sip of wine and every bite from our charcuterie board, the world outside faded away. There were no interruptions, save for the occasional croak of a bullfrog, as we chatted with the eagerness and excitement of a first date. The food was exquisite, the wine perfectly suited, and the company, of course, was simply the best. It was an afternoon of pure perfection.

I cannot overstate how impressed I was with the Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Stacked Wines. Their portability and ease of use were truly unparalleled. No fragile glasses to transport, no corkscrew needed, and absolutely no mess to worry about. We simply tore off the top and immediately enjoyed our wine. From now on, these stacked wines will be my absolute go-to for any outdoor occasion – they are far too convenient and delicious to pass up. I particularly appreciate the variety they offer; I tend to prefer white wine (unless it’s dessert time!), while my husband is a red wine enthusiast, so having both Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon options was ideal for our picnic.

As the sun began to dip and the evening air brought a few more bugs, we decided it was the perfect time for dessert before heading home. Since we weren’t traveling far or spending the entire day in scorching heat, keeping our Mini Chocolate Mason Jars with Cherry Jam cool wasn’t a major challenge. I simply packed them in a small tray with a freezer pack, wrapped securely in foil, and they remained perfectly chilled until we were ready to indulge.

These Mini Chocolate Mason Jars with Cherry Jam proved to be the quintessential ending to our romantic picnic. The sweetness of the cherries, combined with the slight bitterness of the dark chocolate and espresso, created a sophisticated and utterly satisfying flavor profile. They served as a delightful palate cleanser and a truly decadent treat. Their portability was a huge advantage; being able to eat them straight from their individual containers and re-cap any unfinished portions made them incredibly practical and mess-free. They were, without a doubt, a sweet highlight of our memorable afternoon.

Recipe: Mini Chocolate Mason Jars with Cherry Jam

Mini Chocolate Mason Jars with Cherry Jam

Dark chocolate and sweet cherries pair perfectly with Cabernet Sauvignon and complement each other harmoniously to bring an elegant dessert to any outdoor experience. Mini Chocolate Mason Jars with Cherry Jam are the perfect way to end your romantic picnic on a sweet note.

Author: Strawberry Blondie Kitchen

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 35 mins

Total Time: 50 mins

Yield: 6 – 4oz mini jars

Ingredients

• For the Mini Chocolate Mason Jars:
• 1 cup milk (2% recommended for richness)
• 2/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons instant espresso powder
• 1 cup dark chocolate chips (high quality for best flavor)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• For the Sweet Cherry Jam:
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup cherry juice (a fruit juice blend of cherry, blueberry, and cranberry works wonderfully)
• 6 ounces frozen dark sweet cherries, thawed
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract

Instructions

1. To Prepare the Mini Chocolate Mason Jars:
2. In a medium saucepan, thoroughly whisk together the milk, mayonnaise, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and instant espresso powder.
3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring continuously until it thickens to a pudding-like consistency.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the dark chocolate chips, vanilla extract, and almond extract. Stir vigorously until the chocolate has completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
5. Carefully divide the warm chocolate mixture evenly among 6-4 ounce mini mason jars.
6. Place the filled jars in the refrigerator and chill for at least 3 hours, or until they are firm and well-set.
7. To Prepare the Sweet Cherry Jam:
8. In a small saucepan, combine the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and cherry juice. Whisk until the cornstarch is fully dissolved.
9. Add the thawed dark sweet cherries to the saucepan. Cook over high heat, stirring frequently, until the jam thickens to your desired consistency.
10. Stir in the vanilla and almond extracts. Remove the jam from the heat and allow it to cool completely.
11. To Assemble the Mini Chocolate Mason Jars with Cherry Jam:
12. Once both the chocolate mixture is set and the cherry jam is thoroughly cooled, spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of sweet cherry jam on top of each mini chocolate mason jar.
13. Serve chilled and relish in this delightful, portable dessert experience!

Notes

The recipe for Mini Chocolate Mason Jars is slightly adapted from Chocolate Mason Jars on Food Network.

Cuisine: Dessert

These Mini Chocolate Mason Jars with Cherry Jam are not only incredibly simple to prepare but also taste utterly decadent. The deep, rich notes of dark chocolate and a hint of espresso beautifully complement the vibrant sweetness of the cherry jam. This exquisite flavor profile creates a harmonious pairing with the bold Cabernet Sauvignon we enjoyed. The beauty of this dessert lies in its simplicity: a quick whisking of ingredients, a period of chilling, and the same straightforward process for the jam. The result is a sophisticated dessert that’s both portable and profoundly satisfying.

Just look at that luscious chocolate, subtly studded with espresso powder! The sweet cherry jam truly sings when combined with the nuanced bitterness of the dark chocolate and espresso. It’s a truly decadent and divine treat that perfectly concludes any meal, especially a romantic picnic.

Tips for Your Own Unforgettable Romantic Picnic

Planning a perfect picnic doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few key considerations, you can create an unforgettable outdoor experience for two:

• Food Selection: Curate a diverse charcuterie board featuring a variety of high-quality meats (like salami, prosciutto, coppa), cheeses (soft brie, sharp cheddar, creamy goat cheese), an assortment of crackers and crusty bread (a baguette is always a good choice), fresh fruits (grapes, berries, sliced apples), and briny olives or cornichons. Don’t forget a portable, mini dessert that’s easy to serve and enjoy outdoors, such as our Mini Chocolate Mason Jars.
• Beverage Choices: For ultimate convenience and elegance, consider Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi Stacked Wines. Their single-serve, plastic cups are truly a game-changer – no corks, no extra glasses, no mess! Beyond wine, always pack plenty of bottled water to stay hydrated. A thermos of iced tea or sparkling juice can also be a refreshing addition.
• Essential Gear: A comfortable, waterproof blanket is paramount for a pleasant seating area. Bring sturdy napkins, lightweight paper plates, and utensils. Always remember a small trash bag to leave no trace behind. Depending on your location and the time of day, bug spray and sunscreen are crucial for comfort and protection. And of course, the most important essential: good company!

Here’s how I expertly packed our Mini Chocolate Mason Jars with Cherry Jam for optimal enjoyment. Since our picnic destination was quite close, intense chilling for an extended period wasn’t necessary. I simply placed the jars in a tray, covered it with aluminum foil, and kept them stored until we were ready to indulge. They remained delightfully cold and refreshing. These charming little 4-ounce mason jars, complete with their secure lids, can be easily purchased online and are truly perfect for any portable mini dessert. Beyond sweets, they are also excellent for individual salads, pickles, or various spreads, making them a versatile addition to your picnic repertoire.

Ready for Your Romantic Escape?

When you have exquisite food, perfectly paired wine, and the best company by your side, what more could you possibly need for a truly romantic and memorable picnic? It’s these simple moments of connection that nourish the soul and strengthen relationships, reminding us that romance can be found even amidst the busiest of lives.

For even more inspiration on elevating your entertaining experiences, be sure to visit the EntertainAndPair Social Hub. It’s a fantastic resource filled with delightful recipes, clever tips, and stylish entertaining ideas to suit every occasion. Discover why stacked wines are becoming the new standard for convenience, portability, and sheer magic in entertaining. They are, without a doubt, my new secret weapon for effortless elegance.

Additionally, stay connected with Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi on Facebook, where they regularly share delicious recipe pairings and engaging videos to enhance your culinary adventures.

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Enjoy creating your own romantic moments! If you try this delightful recipe, please share a photo on social media and hashtag it #strawberryblondiekitchen. I absolutely love seeing your culinary creations!