caramel apple galette

i kept seeing people post tempting pictures of galettes on instagram this weekend, so by labor day, i finally broke down.  we had a couple of apples from our friend's apple tree that were just on the edge of being too soft to bite into, so it was perfect timing.  this dessert was so simple and satisfying, and was an appropriately american dessert for a holiday weekend.  besides needing some direction on baking times from epicurious, i made this up as i went.

caramel apple galette

serves 4-6

pie crust

filling:

sliced apples (i used four small green, and two medium galas)

1 tbsp sugar (only if you prefer)

handful of caramels

splash of citrus

cinnamon

grated nutmeg

dash of cloves

mix apple filling together and carefully wrap into the pie crust without tearing.  brush sides with milk and sprinkle with sugar.  bake in a preheated 450 degree oven for 20 minutes, then lower the heat to 375 degrees and bake for another 30 minutes, or until crust is dark golden brown.  cool for 10 minutes.  once the caramel that has melted out of the galette cools, break and stick into ice cream or tops of sliced galette.  enjoy!

bread making with bis

when we were visiting family this last november, my sister-in-law spent a morning helping me get over my bread making and kneading fears.  it was such a great experience.  there's something about being taught a domestic skill by someone you love.  it reminds me of that person whenever i repeat the skill, and sticks with me more than just picking up a book and reading about it.  it doesn't hurt that bis is an excellent baker and teacher, too. here was my breadmaking lesson #1.

olive oil bread

combine dry ingredients:

4 1/2 cups flour (we split it half wheat, half white)

1 tablespoon yeast

1 tablespoon salt

combine + then add:

2 cups water (hot bath temp)

3/4 cups olive oil

knead until smooth and firm.  form into round loaf.  let rise for 30 minutes in greased pan.  if you like, sprinkle with fresh rosemary.  bake at 350 degrees for 30 - 45 minutes.  

enjoy this moist, dense bread that goes perfectly with your favorite winter soup!

back home

top two photos: doug's parent's home

bottom two photos: my parents home 

we got a chance to visit both sets of parents while we were traveling.  all i did was hold a baby, learn how to make great bread, help where i could, eat good food, and talk, talk, talk.  walking into both of our childhood homes instantly makes me feel like i'm home.

boo!

pumpkin patch, hayrides and carving pumpkins, oh my!  it was a good weekend, and the fun has only begun!  i'm going as a bank robber this halloween, how about you?

also, it's not halloween without charlie and a little arsenic now, is it?