Desserts

Frosty Toffee Bits Pie, Espresso Martini, and The Midnight Library

April 19, 2025
editor
Enjoy the delightful combination of Frosty Toffee Bits Pie with the thrilling novel 'The Midnight Library' by Matt Haig, perfectly complemented by a classic Espresso Martini. This pairing blends the richness of flavors found in each element, with the indulgence of the pie, the depth of the storyline, and the punchy notes of coffee and vodka working harmoniously to create a memorable experience.
Frosty Toffee Bits Pie

Ingredients

  • 1 9-inch graham cracker crust (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 quart vanilla ice cream, slightly softened
  • 1 cup toffee bits (such as Heath or Skor)
  • 1/2 cup chocolate sauce or hot fudge sauce, for drizzling
  • Whipped cream, for garnish (optional)
  • Additional toffee bits, for garnish

Instructions

  • Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened vanilla ice cream with 3/4 cup of the toffee bits. Stir until the toffee bits are evenly distributed throughout the ice cream.
  • Fill the Crust: Spoon the ice cream mixture into the graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.
  • Add Toppings: Drizzle the chocolate sauce or hot fudge over the top of the ice cream filling. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of toffee bits over the top.
  • Freeze the Pie: Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until the ice cream is firm.
  • Serve: Before serving, let the pie sit at room temperature for a few minutes to soften slightly. Garnish with whipped cream and additional toffee bits if desired. Slice and serve cold.

The Midnight Library

The Midnight Library

Between life and death lies a library filled with endless books of what could have been in one's life. For Nora Seed, each book shares a different ending to her life, revealing choices she could have made differently and where they would have led her. Facing the regrets of her past, Nora embarks on a poignant journey to discover what truly makes life worth living, and what life she wants for herself.
Between life and death there is a library. When Nora Seed finds herself in the Midnight Library, she has a chance to make things right. Up until now, her life has been full of misery and regret. She feels she has let everyone down, including herself. But things are about to change. The books in the Midnight Library enable Nora to live as if she had done things differently. With the help of an old friend, she can now undo every one of her regrets as she tries to work out her perfect life. But things aren’t always what she imagined they’d be, and soon her choices place the library and herself in extreme danger. Before time runs out, she must answer the ultimate question: what is the best way to live?

Discussion Questions

  • If you had the chance to live in any of your alternate lives, would you take it? Why or why not?
  • What do you think is the author’s view on the meaning of life?
  • How does the concept of regrets play a role in the book?
  • Describe how Nora’s perception of happiness changes throughout the story.
  • What impact do the 'what-ifs' have on Nora’s mental health at different stages in the novel?
  • How does the relationship between Nora and Ms. Elm influence Nora's journey?
  • Discuss the role of mental health in 'The Midnight Library' and how it is portrayed.
  • What did you learn about regret and acceptance from Nora’s experiences?
  • How does Nora’s journey compare to your own life experiences with choices and regrets?
  • What message do you think the author wants readers to take away from this book?
Authors: Matt Haig
ISBN: 0525559477
Publisher: HarperCollins
Published Date: 2020-09-29

Espresso Martini

Espresso Martini
The Espresso Martini is a coffee-flavored cocktail combining the richness of espresso with the warmth of vodka and the sweetness of coffee liqueur. It’s perfect for rounding out a luxurious dessert experience like the Frosty Toffee Bits Pie.

Ingredients

  • 1 ounce vodka
  • 1 ounce coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
  • 1 ounce freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee
  • 1/2 ounce simple syrup
  • Coffee beans, for garnish

Instructions

  • Add vodka, coffee liqueur, espresso, and simple syrup into a shaker filled with ice.
  • Shake well until the mixture is chilled.
  • Strain into a chilled martini glass.
  • Garnish with a few coffee beans and serve immediately.