Kid's birthday party

Kailey obviously is enjoying her cooking birthday party!
"Thanks again."

Julianne W., Sudbury, Mass.

Rachel's bachelorette party

A bachelorette cooking party was the perfect choice for a future bride who loves to cook.

"Thank you so much, Ellie! We had so much fun :)"

Rachel, R., Braintree, Massachusetts

Kid's birthday party

Lily celebrated her 9th birthday with her friends, while they all cooked their own lunch.


"Our daughter (& son) and 9 of her closest friends had a wonderful time celebrating her 9th birthday with Ellie. Dressed in chef hats and aprons, the girls really enjoyed making their own fruit dip & kebabs and personalized pizzas from scratch. The girls also showcased their creative talents by decorating a giant -- the biggest we've seen -- chocolate chip cookie. Of course, the most memorable were all the creative imperfections and resulting laughter shared by all.

Ellie was a calm, soothing presence amidst all the enthusiasm and creativity. She handled the girls (and our boy) with patience and care. She clearly was a seasoned veteran in the kitchen, even with 10 third grader sous-chefs working with her. Thanks Ellie for a memorable 'Lets Get Cooking™ party."

Nicole C., Acton, MA

Private cooking lesson

Knowing how much David wants to learn more about cooking, his wife and son gave him the gift of a private cooking lesson last Father’s Day.

Cooking with Ellie is much more than figuring out the difference between a pinch and a dash ... it’s about unleashing the cook within. She removes the intimidation from cooking so you can take pleasure in the process and pride in the results. We chopped, sliced, sautéed, mixed, and baked, and the food on the plate more than satisfied both the palate and the appetite. In addition to her excellent book of recipes, Ellie left me with an appreciation for cooking and a confidence that I could hold my own in the kitchen.

David B., Newton, MA

Chocolate Macaroons

● 4 oz semi sweet chocolate
● 2 oz unsweetened chocolate
● 2 egg whites
● ½ C sugar
● 1 tsp vanilla
● 2 C shredded coconut

Melt both chocolates in a double boiler or in the microwave. In an electric mixer, beat egg whites until frothy. Gradually add the sugar. Fold in vanilla and melted chocolate. Add coconut and mix until blended. Drop by rounded tablespoonfuls onto 2 greased or parchment-lined cookie sheets. Bake at 375° for about 12 minutes, or until a light crust forms on the outside. Cool on cookie sheets or move to a cooling rack.

Yield: 24 macaroons

Hint: These macaroons will keep well in a tin.