Apple Pie Recipe

Ingredients:

• 6 cups sliced peeled apples
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1 recipe pie dough
• 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water, for egg wash

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out half of the pie dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie plate.
3. In a large bowl, mix the sliced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until the apples are thoroughly coated.
4. Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust and scatter the butter pieces over the top.
5. Roll out the remaining pie dough and use it to cover the top of the pie. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape or use a decorative pie cutter to make vents.
6. Brush the top of the pie with the egg wash.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
8. Let the pie cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Verdict:

This classic apple pie recipe is a hit every time. The combination of sweet apples, warm spices, and flaky pie crust is irresistible. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience.

Berlingots Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/4 cup glucose syrup
• 1/4 teaspoon cream of tartar
• 1/2 teaspoon natural flavoring extract (ex: peppermint, lemon, orange, etc.)
• Food coloring (optional)
• Confectioner’s sugar, for dusting

Instructions:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar, water, glucose syrup, and cream of tartar.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook until a candy thermometer reads 300°F (hard-crack stage).
4. Remove from heat and stir in the flavoring extract and food coloring (if using).
5. Pour the hot candy onto a greased marble or granite surface. Use a spatula to shape the candy into a long, thin rope.
6. Cut the candy into small pieces with a pair of scissors or knife. Transfer to a baking sheet and allow to cool completely.
7. Once cooled, dust the candies with confectioner’s sugar to prevent them from sticking together.

Verdict:

These homemade berlingots are a French classic and make for a delicious and beautiful candy. The addition of natural flavoring extracts allows you to customize these candies to your liking. Serve them in a candy dish as an after-dinner treat or wrap them up as a gift.

Caramelized Walnuts Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup walnut halves
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the sugar, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Add the walnut halves and toss until evenly coated.
4. Spread the walnuts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the sugar has caramelized and the walnuts are golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving.

Verdict:

These caramelized walnuts make for a perfect snack or topping for salads or desserts. The combination of sweet and salty flavors with a hint of cinnamon make these nuts addictive and delicious. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to a week.