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Hello Reader and happy July - we're officially in the second half of the year. But how?!! It’s been a quiet month here after the loss of my brother, so I’m easing back in slowly. Thank you for being here.

Since I haven't posted any new recipes during last month, I thought I'd take the opportunity to show you what everyone is lovely on SSM right now.

June: favourite sweets

These marshmallow chocolate chip cookies have been a favourite for years and there's been a lot of people making them just recently. The marshmallow brands do make a difference as some completely melt while others hold a bit of shape. If you aren't sure though, a great tip is to freeze the marshmallows before adding them to the dough.

Some more favourites;

• The perfect pavlova recipe. If you're enjoying summer right now, then this is the perfect celebration dessert.
• This strawberry sponge cake is another great way to celebrate the warmer months but it's easy to add whatever fruit is in season and a treat all year round.
• ​Lemon curd bars are a favourite all year round. They're quick, easy and absolutely delicious.

June: favourite savoury!

​Crispy Asian chilli beef mince is by far the most visited recipe on SSM and I'll tell you want. Aside from being super-tasty, it's ridiculously quick to make (under 20 minutes). You can also add veggies if you like or serve it alongside a salad. It's just perfect with rice.

Don't forget these;

• And while we're on quick stir fries, this sticky chicken mince stir fry is another favourite.
• If you're after a fantastic, comforting side dish, this cheesy potato bake always gets rave reviews.
• And these short rib tacos are stellar. Made using slow cooked Mexican short ribs, they're served with a delicious jalapeno relish.

This time last year

July over the years has some of my favourite recipes that I make often like these chilli beef nachos and chimichurri pork tenderloin. On the sweeter side, this Oreo chocolate cake is one I'll be making a variation of very soon and these Viennese whirls are a fave too.

This no-bake chocolate mousse tart is super easy to make and totally scrumptious.

If you're enjoying warmer weather right now, this potato and egg salad is a must-make.

Calling all chocolate lovers!

July 7th is World Chocolate Day - a wonderful excuse to fit an extra chocolate dessert into your week. I have umpteen recipes on Sugar Salt Magic devoted to celebrating one of the worlds most popular foods. From drinks to desserts, even to savoury dishes, it can be eaten on it's own or turned into a magical dessert. Check out this collection of chocolate recipes and find a new favourite today!

Some of my favourite ways to cook or bake with chocolate are;

• ​Chocolate cremeux (pictured above)
• ​Chocolate fondants (lava cakes)​
• ​Chocolate self saucing pudding​
• ​Chocolate marshmallow cookies (a blog favourite)
• ​Chocolate meringues​
• ​Homemade chocolate milk​
• ​Caramel chocolate cupcakes​

Favourite reader comments

I say it every month but I mean it - when you share a comment on the blog, it means the world to me. I love to know what you love to make and share and it makes my day to know that one of my recipes has made it's way into your kitchen.

It means so much to hear lovely comments like these;

Heather said: "Made this morning. My daughter says best thing I’ve ever tasted mum! I think I like it better than caramel slice. I omitted the salt and used unsalted butter in the base. My partner isn’t a salt fan so thought it might taste a bit salty to him if I added the salt. Forwarded mum the link to the recipe so she can make as well 🙂" ​Biscoff Millionaires Shortbread​

Maryse said: "My boyfriend was impressed! 😊 He said it’s the best chicken burger he ever had… It was absolutely delicious and crunchy… I added a bit of panko and it’s perfect. Thank you for the recipe that helped me impressed my boyfriend. 😁 " ​Crispy Chicken Burgers​

If you've read this far, thank you so much for your support. I love creating recipes but I love even more hearing about you making them and sharing them with your own families.

Hit reply and tell me what you want to see on Sugar Salt Magic.

Marie, xx