If you’re anything like me, you’re exhausted. Not just from a long night of watching the polls close on Election Day, but from a looong, tiring, bizarre election. As results for president, Senate, and the House slowly rolled in, I couldn’t help but notice how much self-medicating and gluttony were occurring on social media. People across the country were reaching for cocktails and comfort food (rightfully so) to help them get through what has undoubtedly been a nightmare of a process.
In my mind, if you’re going to do something, you have to do it right. Instead of just reaching for whatever junk food is closest to you to give you a little hug from the inside, consider truly treating yourself. Now that November 8 is in our rear-view mirror, chances are that you have a little more time on yours hands. (No need to update your Twitter or Facebook feed every five minutes as more incendiary stories about the candidates hit the media!) Use that extra time to make some delicious, decadent desserts. Consider it self-love. You won’t regret it.
Dark Chocolate Red Wine Brownies
The first of my red-wine themed options, these brownies will satisfy every craving that you might be having. If you’re feeling inspired, you might consider throwing in some “drunken cranberries.” (Just rehydrate dried cranberries in some red wine.) You might be feeling sad or depressed, but you won’t for long with one (or several) of these in your hand.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/87398048992033817/
Red Wine Chocolate Cake with Blackberries
If you’re more of a cake lover, then this one is for you. And the blackberries add a fresh, healthy aspect to this sinful recipe. Note the red wine. It has antioxidants. Just keep telling yourself that as you whip up this treat.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/411305378452001490/
Red Wine Buttercream Frosting
Now we’re talking. Red wine and frosting together at last? Yes please! You can top your favorite cupcake or dessert with this recipe. It’s bound to help shake any election-related anxiety.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/144748575493767810/
Triple-Chocolate Cabernet Cookies
If you’re really feeling down, then just one dose of chocolate isn’t going to do it. Combining triple-chocolate and wine could possibly do the trick. And since the weather is cooling off (not in California, but definitely in the rest of the country), a nice full-bodied cab is the perfect choice. Be sure to save a little bit to drink on the side.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/72690981455319851/
Roasted Strawberry Red Wine Popsicles
If you’re looking for something a little lighter (and with potentially fewer calories) then this one is for you. Plus, if you’re living through a heat wave right now, a cold, refreshing treat might be in store.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/154529830939382056/
Red Wine Marshmallows and Dark Chocolate
Not that you need any excuse to eat marshmallows. But marshmallows with red wine and chocolate? How can you resist? Can’t you just feel your mood lightening at the thought of it?
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/97953360623869049/
Red Wine Chocolate Truffles
For my decadence-loving friends, truffles will surely take care of your needs. The best part is that you only need FOUR ingredients to make them. And you might even have them in your pantry already!
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/368450813246026295/
Red Wine Cheesecake Brownies
I’m personally a big cheesecake fan, so this one is right up my alley. In fact, if they are as delicious as they sound, they might make an encore appearance at Thanksgiving!
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/51580358212388775/
Espresso Brownie Fries
Ok, so we left the wine out of just one dessert option, in the event that you needed a caffeine pick-me-up instead. Ready in just over a half hour, you’ll be energized and ready to start tweeting again about the results.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/144607838014381633/
Red Wine Chocolate Cookie Cups
This particular recipe makes 48 of these chocolate cookie cups. So either you’re having a really bad day and need all of them for yourself, or you can invite some friends over to commiserate. Either way, they’ll be delicious.
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/73816881368534588/
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