You need this recipe if you’re baking Easter Brunch.. or just making breakfast.. or just craving something new! Sometimes a recipe just sets my heart jumping.. this is one of them and I couldn’t wait to share it. Because it’s Easter this weekend! I just know you’d be craving something like this.. { I can…
We were totally “caked-out” from my daughter’s birthday and the Cinnamon Streusel Pumpkin Coffee Cake I racked my brains for something “else” that would be suitable but unique for a special birthday… my son, Phil’s, 19th to be exact! ♥ When he worked at Mercato West, our favorite restaurant, he worked hard to perfect the…
Yum! HAPPY BIRTHDAY to both of them!
Stunning! I wanted a photo of it on a spoon! Enjoying a lovely dessert at home is the BEST way to have any dessert! Especially in your jammies!
Valerie
What a lovely dessert for the occasion. I hope everyone is better soon.
I will have to get that kitchen torch ONLY to make this amazing looking meringue-pannacotta! I already know I would like to do this using Italian meringue… happy birthday!
Totally loving the idea of these for an afternoon dessert with the girls! I love panna cotta, truth be known I love anything with fresh cream, so this is right up my alley! They look very classy too!
Smidge, when you rack your brain, genius happens! (case in point!) This goes on my list for the holidays. Love it! (and happy birthday Phil – you lucky lad!) Beautiful photos too Barb – the first one especially grabs me (and won’t let go!) xox
Happy Birthday to Handsome Phil! (you should definitely tell him I said so, at 19 compliments don’t spoil that much, right? 
You know, I have that recipe from Giada’s bookmarked to “try soon” – you outdid her by a huge shot, if she sees your post she might consider quitting TV and giving you her spot… seriously
I like the modifications you made, and I intend to surprise my Phil with it sometime soon….
Yet another reason to buy a kitchen torch. These sound amazing!
I love your blog – the pictures are always so pretty… Thanks so much for sharing!
That looks fantastic. I’ve never heard of meringue powder. I make meringues every week as my wife is an addict! The other thing is that I always hear of people using cream of tartare – I’ve never owned any as I don’t know what it is or what it does. I normally add a pinch of salt to the egg whites, and add 32gms of sugar for each egg white. I have to try your cappucino panna cotta defiinitely.
This looks absolutely sinful – thanks so much for sharing! Have a Great Day:)
looks like the perfect birthday treat! happy birthday to your son and hope you two are feeling better!
Amazing!
Oh my, I’m in love just with the thought of this dessert
uuughhh YES that looks amazing!!! wish i had an espresso machine..
You are an artist…
Cappuccino is one of those things I treat myself with, kind of like comfort food, so this just speaks to me Hubby’s got me working hard cleaning out some things for Goodwill today, but I will be making this as a treat when we’re done. It’s beautiful, Barb! Perfect in every way for me! Thank you for this. xoxo
Thanks, Susie.. I’m done.. 1 Thanksgiving 5 birthdays, 1 Hallowe’en.. and now Remembrance Day is next.. then Christmas, aaaahhh!
Thank you! It’s yummy in jammies.. I loved the texture of the one at Mercato’s though.. I need to get back there to order it again soon!!! xx
Thanks, Karen, I’m about 110% now.. my son is almost there, thank goodness! My daughter didn’t get sick because she takes about 9 echiniceas a day, lol!
I don’t use it too often.. but when I do it’s fun! My son toasted them for me this time:D
They’d be fun for tea time too:D
Thanks spree… coming from you this is an awesome compliment!! xx
I will tell him for sure.. everyone could use a compliment a day I think! Sally.. you’re just an amazing cook/baker/writer!! I hope you try this recipe, I couldn’t believe how easy panna cotta is to make.. xx
I love my torch.. I need to find another recipe so I can play with it again:D
Thank you, Michelle.. I love your blog as well! xx
Well, the jury’s out on the meringue powder for me, it didn’t taste nearly as good. But in this situation, if you’re not in the mood of “tempering” the egg white for food safety, it’s a lot faster and wouldn’t spoil as quick, I don’t think. I just read up on cream of tartar when I was making these.. it’s a substitute for the wonderful properties of a copper pot. Now I know what to wish for at Christmas time!! I think the copper does something to the molecules?? But you probably know better than I:D
You too.. I was curious to see who could comment and who is without power.. I hope no one in our little blogging family!!
I am lots better.. Phil is almost there, thank you for asking! xx
Thanks!
It’s sure a pretty one:) It would be fun to try a lemon panna cotta, don’t you think?
Safeway here has espresso powder in a jar.. I bet it would taste just as good:D
Thanks so much xx
Oh.. the Goodwill job, I did that a few weeks ago in my kids’ rooms, it felt so good. I tend to be a “collector” (polite way of saying hoarder.. a neat hoarder, though;) Good luck with it! Be ruthless, my mom always said!! xx
ps… I printed off the clam chowder recipe for tonight!! xx
I think Phil would have been more than happy with this, what a gorgeous dessert
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
Mine is just starting! 4 November birthdays from the 11tth to the 20 and 1 December birthday right right after Christmas! Thanksgiving in between!
These clouds are so fluffy I want to dive in. Great photography!
Happy to hear that!
You come up with the best ideas. And the presentation is gorgeous. What a wonderful idea for a birthday dinner at home. Happy 19th to Phil. Your children’s birthdays are so close together! xx
Maybe you could try the torch out on creme caramel – although maybe you dont use a torch on that im not sure
Oh my goodness. This is to die for. It will be someone’s birthday this weekend, because I must make this.
Those look really rather special, Barbara!
Happy 19th to Phil!
Glad to read you’re both doing better, Barb, but you sure didn’t let a little virus stomp your creativity. These desserts are beautiful. Panna cotta is a wonderful dessert, no doubt, but to top it off with meringue and then torch it? Very nice! And I haven’t even mentioned the incredible presentation. Between this panna cotta and your cakes, Mercato West should give you a job as their Pastry Chef. You really are talented, Barb, and and it’s always a treat to come here and see what you’ve cooked up. Today was no exception.
You are amazing creative artist into the words and in the kitchen and in the photography! Happy Birthday to your son. Everything seems so beautiful and so delicious, so delicious… Thank you, love, nia
Works of art, Smidge!
Ohh what a classic way to celebrate another year of life!! Coffee is the elixir OF life after all! Happy Birthday to your son!
What a clever and inventive combination -these sound gorgeous – I am sure I could eat a whole one myself. I hope everyone is feeling better.
amazing!!!
I wont one cup….. please
I so wish I were having this for dessert tonight. I love coffee desserts. Alas, there is no gelatin in the house…
Hey Smidge, love the idea of combining a classic panda cotta with the toasty brûlée topping and ‘meringue foam!’ Need a few make ahead & chill recipes coming up for Summer here so much appreciated!
Barbara that looks like the perfect dessert. Love the sounds of this! Anything that involves coffee and meringue is good, involving the two together? Divine.
Oh Smidge, this is just heavenly!
Mandy xo
That is an amazing interpreation of a wonderful dessert – and you were feeling ill too. Do hope you are all better, especially after all the celebrations you have been cooking for!
What a wonderful dessert. The inspiration and interpretation are inspired! Happy Birthday to the son, and hope everyone feels better soon!
Looks and sounds divine.
I’m really sorry you weren’t well enough to go out, but I think I’d rather sit at your house and enjoy your fabulous cooking in the comfort of a warm home! You have such a wide range of talents, Smidge! I am sure the restaurant couldn’t offer anything more beautiful and tasty!
I will cook all day and serve wine all night if you will make this in return! I am a fiend for creamy, meringuey, lush desserts….I want this for breakfast lunch and dinner.
Hahaha.. then it will be time for a jog:D
Thanks!
You are just far too young to have a 19 year old. This dessert looks so incredibly beautiful, I just LOVE it. I will definitely have to steal your idea for sure. We have Mercato in Toronto, I wonder if it’s the same restaurant group.
Thanks, CCU:D
I do love anything meringue for that reason:)
They sure are.. my husband’s mom and sister have a birthday in October as well!
Oh, I think you mean creme brulee.. I think that’s a great idea!!
Hahaha.. someone must be having a birthday this weekend, surely?
They’re a cute presentation for sure.. wish I could take credit.. but that goes to Mercato:D
I’ve thought about Pastry Chef school, you know, but then I’d have to stop focusing on making cheese, pasta, braising meats.. what fun would there be in that 
Thanks so much, as always, your complimentary words make my day!
I will tell him for you! Thank you, nia xx
What beautiful photos! And what a perfect little treat for a special occasion!
They are fun, especially swirling up the meringue:)
Oh, my gosh, we drink so much of it too, eh?
Well.. I definitely tried.. and made it just past half way, and finished the rest the next day, lol! We’re both lots better now thanks! Hopefully that’s over with for the year!
I wish I could.. I bet you have a great recipe for panna cotta?
I’m so impressed that you’re still sticking with your plan. How many more days are left??
How I wish it was summer here.. only 7 months to go, lol!
They are an awesome combination that’s for sure.. and so silky!
Thanks, Mandy! xx
I think it’s work that makes me sick.. I could bake every day and not get tired, lol! But work, that is another story altogether! xx
I will tell him for you. We are much better now, thank you for your well wishes!
Ahhh.. what they offer is a night off And variety and being waited on with a smile is something I could get used to:D xx
Well, now, you’ve just made my day. Yes, I had my first child at 16, lol.. just kidding. It is a great idea for a make ahead dessert for sure. I don’t know if they are connected.. somehow I don’t think so or we would have heard about it? Is it a great restaurant?? I might just google it to see!
Thank you! It’s great of you to visit!
Of course, you are so right! I was thinking of myself as your guest! LOL! Not the cook! Oh so sorry…hahaha! You probably get that reaction frequently being such a gracious host. I hope you get a little “time off” this weekend, Smidge!
Oh, I don’t know. “Work With What You Got” was supposed to be for the month of October. It is November now but I am still short on income. I’ll know what I’m doing by Sunday’s post.
It’s lovely. I believe there are three in Toronto, we like the one on Bay Street. I’ve been to the one at the Eaton Centre and don’t care for it. I haven’t been to the third one.
Just Googled them and our’s have two T’s in their name.
So pretty…and looks so delicious! Very creative! Yum!
This was amazing Barb. Wow. Thanks again for the recipe!
That is just gorgeous looking meringue!
What a great substitute for cake! This is a gorgeous dessert and what flavors! I love a good panna cotta and the meringue on top looks delicious!
What a fabulous dessert!
Another incredibly beautiful and tasty sounding dessert. Happy Birthday to your son and your daughter!
that looks gorgeous! i think i have some espresso powder that needs to be made into this, for sure.
Wow, even when you are ill you make gorgeous and delicious goodies! Your children are very lucky to have such an amazing mom. Hope everyone is feeling better now! Holiday season’s a comin’!
What heavenly little clouds! I wish you ran a restaurant on my block.
Very nice dessert! Well done, I have to do some of this soon
Sometimes coming here is like entering a dream land. A very pretty, tasty dream land.
I have already said happy birthday to your daughter, so Happy Birthday Phil!
This is something that suits me … have done 1000 and more 1000 panna cotta in my days, but never anything like this .. under a “roof”. This I have to try. Barbara, your recipe says tartar – is that the same as in tartar sauce ???? Doesn’t make any sense to me, but it doesn’t have to do that to work. Or is it something of your weird and wonderful products you have over there. Beautiful and so indulgent photos.
I hope everyone is feeling better! Happy birthday to your daughter and son!!! I love how you browned the edges of the meringue. It looks perfect!
Oh, dear.. Nooo, not tartar sauce.. It’s a powder here sold in a tiny box called cream of tartar, but if you don’t have it, you can make the meringues without:D
I knew it was something wired and wonderful again. I have heard about powder that keep the meringues stiff.
Thanks for coming back to me.
Beautiful photos, Smidge, and what a beautiful recipe! My four-year-old daughter is sitting on my lap and said, “Oh, yummy!” They sure do look it (!), though I think she’ll need to refrain from the espresso for a few years. Good health to all. xoxo
I love the presentation! How adorable and absolutely delicious.
That is about as divine of a “cap” that I have ever seen Barbara. Love it!
[...] kinda early. It’s my own fault but at that precise moment, I had just finished the gorgeous Cappuccino Panna Cotta I saw yesterday at Smidges, the bread was rising and the Moroccan Braised Beefwas already made and [...]
Happy belated birthday to your son and your daughter
They are indeed lucky to have such a wonderfully talented mum
Happy belated birthdays! What a gorgeous meringue. I hesitate to use the torch, but your dish inspires me.
It is funny because I always ask my son (20) to help with fire if he is home!
I have renamed your dessert to “Heaven in a bowl”.
That’s an awesome Title.. I’ll remember that for the next fluffy meringue dish I make:)
These are GORGEOUS! What a great discovery.
And I have passed in my hand held kitchen torch for a real one (it’s small but I could solder pipes with it!)
I hope you have your body back… and have taken time to rest. x
Wow.. A real torch!! Now that would be so much fun!!!
It’s about time to use that torch I had for so long now!! Lovely dessert!
Oh my how heavenly! It looks so fluffy, the name fits perfectly! Gorgeous picture, you’re such an inspiration
♥ Wishing you and your loved ones a joyous day of giving thanks for those who are near and those in our hearts. ♥ I searched far and wide (not really, they were at the second store I phoned) for Sugar Pie Pumpkins { I ♥ their name! } and found some at Planet Organic Market I…
Looks like heaven! mmmm. I can smell them through your pictures.
These looks so seasonal and wonderful, warming and full of the good thoughts you put into them, Smidge! x
What touching words! I love the name of those pumpkins
Beautiful!
Mandy
Thank you for sharing your words of thanksgiving wisdom. They remind me to live, to love and to thank.
Thanks for sharing! These look great!
They did smell like “autumn”!
Thanks!!
Me too.. just says it all:D
Those cookies look adorable! Thanks so much for this triple-recipe post! : )
There sits a draft
On my heart
Where your head
Once lay.
Just too beautiful, I had a hard time going back to a cooking mode and pay attention to the recipe…
Thank you for another beautiful post!
So sweet! I love the cookie idea, mmm.
Happy thanksgiving to you to my friend (has it snowed there yet?) he he he! We’re getting to the single digits at night this weekend in cottage country which is where I will be. Someone else is baking the pumpkin pie otherwise I would have been all over this recipe. I’ll be backing up a storm tonight to take to my brothers…no rest for the wicked!
These look heavenly my friend, what a other gorgeous post
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
Yum!
OMG – mouth is watering reading your post – loving your post – great photos – thanks for sharing! Happy Friday:)
Lovely poem – very poignant last line. Happy Thanksgiving – I am not sure exactly what day it’s on in Canada but enjoy your time with your family. xx
Can’t decide which I want to try first — they both look beautiful!
I love the look of your organic pumpkins. I wish that variety was available here. I’m always so aware of Fall in your part of the world as I start to see so many pumpkin recipes. I’ve never heard of pumpkin cookies! It all looks so beautiful as always. (I just had to google the date of your Thanksgiving and found out it’s always the 2nd Monday in October). So have a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend and it seems such a wonderful holiday I wish we had it here xx
Pumpkins say fall, don’t they? I love them. Your cookies look chompable. Your poem is heartbreaking.
Happy Thanksgiving! Your poem was poignant and your recipes sublime – particularly the muffins! YUM!!
Well this really has moved me to get some pumpkins. Fortunately, there is a farmer down the street…I’ve heard he’s got beauties for carving and cooking. I’m calling him tomorrow!
gorgeous, Barbara – love the photos!
Another great post. I’ve never made pumpkin puree as I always thought it was a lot of work but actually it’s not. Will have to give it a try. Thanks for the lovely recipes too
Oh, what a golden post, Barbara! I have never cooked pumpkins. Those cookies look really inviting though….
I hadn’t either.. it was so simple I wish I’d tried before. The taste is much more subtle as well:) Thanks!
I hope you give it a try:)
Thanks!
I think straight from a farmer would mean that your pumpkins would have the most flavor possible! Good luck!
I’m glad you enjoyed all of it:D Happy Thanksgiving to you!
It was a tough one to write.. but it speaks of the loss we feel at celebrations like Thanksgiving when not everyone is at the table with us as we’d wish it. Have an awesome weekend!!
I’m surprised you don’t since we share so much in common? I saw a princess pumpkin that was just like cinderella’s.. I almost bought it just because;) xx
The cookies were the show stopper for sure.. but the muffins were the healthy ones:D
Thanks.. We are celebrating it tomorrow! So I have to get cooking today:D
You’re welcome
xx
Thanks CCU
Hahaha.. laugh away, it did snow but thankfully it has melted. Even with single digits, I’d love to be in cottage country for Thanksgiving. Have a wonderful celebration!!
My mum thought they were muffins;D
It was a bit tough to combine poignant with happy.. I’m glad you liked it Sally! xx
It’s hard to get writing often enough these days.. so I figured the only solution is to combine recipes on one post. Thanks for stopping in! xx
I’m glad to have reminded you.. I’m always trying to remind myself when I’m running around baking and cooking:) xx
Thanks, Mandy! xx
This has Autumn written all over it and I thorough enjoy it!!
Have a wonderful weekend!
http://TheSquishyMonster.com
Thanks:D
Lovely Barbara. Teamed up with a little espresso, I’d happily have 2-5 of your little pumpkin cookies
Those pie pumpkins are just too adorable for words! We went to a local pumpkin farm this morning, and bought 6 of them. So, according to your calculations, I’m going to have LOTS of pumpkin puree (I plan to freeze mine). That’s a good thing, because pumpkin is the only pie all my offspring can agree on. I am REQUIRED to provide pumpkin pies for holiday meals. My daughter made pumpkin cookies last night, and I’m going to try a variation of them soon. I’ll probably look at her recipe and yours, and then cobble together something of my own. Part of the fun of cooking, isn’t it? Happy Thanksgiving!
Love pumpkins and I share the love alone in our household 
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your near and dear ones Barbara! I hope your home and your heart is filled with the blessings of Thanksgiving.
That does sound good right about now!! Well.. maybe decaf;)
Awesome.. if ours are about the same size you should have twice as much as I.. perfect for freezing! I love pumpkin pie but may not get to make it this year. But there’s always next week:D I’d love to see your version.. there were several online to choose from! xx That is the best part of cooking/baking! Happy Thanksgiving to you!
You’ll just have to share it online with us:) Happy Thanksgiving to you.. love and blessings!!! xxx
You spoil us, Barb. The verse and recipes are perfect for the Thanksgiving Holiday and time of year. As you can tell, I’m a bit behind in my reading but I wish I had seen this before I went to the market this morning. I really like your idea of using roasted pumpkin for pies, muffins, and cookies. It’s a real improvement. Next week, pumpkins are on my shopping list.
I hope you and yours have a wonderful Thanksgiving, Barb, the memories of which you’ll all cherish for years to come.
Looks like you and yours are going to have a yummy thanksgiving. Lucky people. I won’t be making thanksgiving dinner this year but will be making the gluten free muffins on my return home.
I could just eat that roasted pumpkin!
That sugar pie pumpkins look amazing!
Fabulous – I shall enjoy punmpkin pie vicarioulsy through your blog!
What a beautiful post all around!
I’m so glad to see your technique in baking the pumpkins! You even do pumpkin baking with style, Barb! And the recipes are lovely, too. You’ve been busy. The verse is wonderful, and i’m back to encouraging you to continue with your beautiful poetry. I wonder if you have any opportunities for public readings? I think you’re so talented! Debra
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family. Love the words and photographs as always. So incredibly inviting and lovely.
Lovely pensive verse. Love the simplicity of the roasted pumpkin!
Those sugar-pie cookies look positively divine… with a big mug of hot tea, they look like just the thing I need to ward off the early autumn chill!
I tip my hat to you for taking the extra time to hunt down some sugar pie pumpkins to make your own puree. I’ve been meaning to do that for a while, though I fully admit to cheating with the canned stuff in the meantime… it’s just all too convenient. 
those sugar pie pumpkins look adorable!! thanks so much for the tip to make homemade pumpkin puree i’ll be sure to try it!
[...] end of October. And then it happened…. I received an email update from Barbara Bamber from Just A Smidgen with a recipe on how to roast and puree a pumpkin. Thanks to Barbara, I got a big chunk of my [...]
I know what I will be doing this weekend . I have three sugar pie pumpkins sitting on my counter. The cookies look really good and I think I will start with that. So true the flavor is so much better than canned. I don’t know why I keep picking up the cans! But no more now!
These look awesome!
Mmmm….looks delicious! I bet your house smelled just like Fall. And who can resist something called a “Sugar Pie Pumpkin”.
I utterly love your blog. I am about to put my adorable little pumpkins in the oven. <3
[...] need of sugar pie pumpkin recipes, I’ve got just the blog for you. My friend Smidge, from Just a Smidgen, posted several most delicious sugar pie pumpkin recipes recently, and as well, gives a lovely [...]
Beautiful poem!!
Both the muffins and the cookies sound gorgeous. Sugar pie pumpkins are wonderful! I can’t get them in the UK, but I remember them from when I lived in Canada.
[...] around Just a Smidgen the other day and saw her lovely way of roasting pumpkins and I knew I had to try [...]
[...] was just too tempting to resist! And why would I anyway? I had wonderful little frozen packets of roasted sugar pie pumpkin at my fingertips.. all I needed was some time and a bottle of white wine.. oh, and to be sure.. a [...]
I have never roasted a pumpkin for pumpkin puree. Have been scared of it. But you had me at “it’s as easy as roasting any squash”! Now, I am inspired. And 10 1/2 cups of puree from 3 pumpking? I am sold. All of these dishes look amazing and Iove how you shared various ways to use the puree!
A little plot of earth a shovel seeds rain sun and a hose are all you’d need for a lovely little garden… but to have an old rough and knotted limbed apple tree canopied backyard.. well, that would be just sensational, wouldn’t it? I knew crab apple trees flourished in Calgary.. but sweet apples? Mona…
Yummers!
I’ve got to make applesauce someday… never made it, and full disclosure: never had any. I know I would love it, cinnamon… apples… what’s not to like?
I’m heading back home to ‘apple season’. Your post has me very excited to get picking!
Thanks for sharing.
Yum! I still need to make mine. I froze a bunch of jars last year…. The muffins sound wonderful!
I am jealous – in that nice way – this looks fantastic. Just swooning over those apples, my favorite kind!
YUMMERS – It is certainly APPLE time! Happy Friday:)
Gorgeous photography my dear!
An apple tree is what this post makes me want to have! An apple tree just like that with sweet light green apples. Heaven!
Looks amazing – and put me in the apple mood Barbara!! – yes a genius I love that peeler corer thing too!!!! Much Love ~ R
You’re out of this world .. everything matches with the apples … unbelievable. Apple muffins I LOVE !!! I love everything with apples really, except eating them raw – don’t know why .. really, very rarely I eat an apple and I like them. Have a nice weekend
Wow. I love that apple peeler!
Those muffins look soooo delicious and I’m jealous of your apple tree!!
Spicy and saucy…two of my favourite things
Your muffins look incredible my friend and with everything homemade and homegrown I can only imagine the flavour
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
I love the new look of your blog – it’s super cool. And as always I love your images *sighs* as I realize the photographic knowledge mountain I have to climb.
I love how your apple sauce isn’t sweetened. I love the pic of the apples fresh from the tree and what a gorgeous little wooden crate you have them in – so ‘The Waltons’. Love the new look of your blog, Smidge xx
Just picked apples don’t compare the slightest to supermarket apples. I am going to have to figure out how to grow a apple tree in my apartment and make these muffins.
I’ve never tried making applesauce before. I had no idea it was so easy! Thank you for these two recipes, Smidge. I love apples! Your pictures are so pretty too!
Applesauce from apples you picked yourself is the best, I agree. And you’d be surprised at the different apples you can grow in Alberta! The one in my backyard actually produces red apples that are pleasantly tart but totally edible without cooking.
I’ve yet to take advantage of the apple harvest, having been distracted by peaches. Your post here, though, makes me anxious to get to the famers market tomorrow morning. I need to smell apples baking in the oven and the Boys Upstairs need their apple sauce. You are so lucky to be able to pick apples that haven’t been spoilt by larvae. We’ve trees around the property in Michigan but the apples aren’t worth picking. On the other hand, they look beautiful in the Spring and are a source of food for the deer throughout Fall and Winter. Apples are so readily available in that area that I’d rather the deer have their fill. I’m being redundant but it must be said. This is another beautifully photographed post, Barb.
Oh, I love my apple peeler. Those spirals are so darn cute–and it’s really so fast. Can’t wait to pick our apples now!
What a wonderful bounty of apples! I must try adding star anise to my next batch of apple sauce
I was just commenting on another apple sauce that I read – I’ll never buy storebought goo again!
Will be making applesauce in a week or 2. I like to add maple syrup or Chinese rock sugar as sweetener. I have never used an apple peeler, your is so cool.
Love the picture of the apples piled high in the basket. I must get out to an orchard soon!
Your photography work captured the heart of fall especially of the apples mounded high and the apple peeler. I also like your new theme as less scrolling required and that is nice. Take care, BAM
Beautiful, beautiful shots! And now I need to make something with apples!
What is the apple variety–they look like some of my favorites from childhood–the best for pies and sauce.
There is nothing, but nothing, like an apple dessert. Your beautiful basket of apples inspires me to make a beautiful crumble tomorrow….
Love the new layout Smidge! Those muffins look fantastic and I just love the picture of the apple on the corer/peeler. Very cool.
I sure wish I knew.. all I know is they were in the backyard of Mona’s house.. and green and sweet.. anywhere from 2-3ish inches in diameter.
I love apple crumble/crisp.. one of the first desserts that I’ve ever made:D
Thanks, Kristy.. I always like changing things up, but now I think I’m done for a while.. I think…
That is full disclosure… you’re one of a few I think:) If you lived closer I’d fix that for you!
Do you have your own tree to pick.. lucky you!!
It takes so many apples to make just a few jars.. I’ve already got to make more! xx
As I swoon over your recipes.. if only we could sample each other’s!
It definitely is apple time.. and we need to hurry before it’s pumpkin time, lol!
Thanks, Kammie!
Me too!! I have to totally plant one next spring. I wonder if I can buy a more mature tree to speed things up??
Yay! Glad I could help! It was a blast to use!! So efficient!
Aww, thanks Viveka.. I do love to try and “match” stuff:D I was thinking the other day that if apples tasted like those ones, I’d eat them daily!! Some store bought are just awful, don’t you think?
Isn’t it a cool tool?
Yup… I’m jealous of it too.. wish I had one!
They were so moist.. must be all that applesauce:)
Thanks so much! I’ve just experimented and along the way I know certain angles in the sun can turn out cool. Sometimes just cropped in close can work miracles too!
Hahaha.. thanks for catching that!! I was in such a hurry I left the sugar out:) Now I think Chgo John has one without sugar. I’m positive my mom used to buy apples or at least they were displayed at the store in these baskets??
It’s true.. I may have to sneak back to Mona’s yard:D
I used to have an old variety my parents called “Transparent.” They were an early season apple. Maybe?
Me too:D
Thanks Sarah! I always love when you come round here to visit, you say the most complimentary remarks every time. I always look forward to reading what you write for me.. it’s like opening up a “real” letter:D xx
I think you must be the local “expert” at things that grow in Alberta:) I saw a red apple tree at one of the houses I showed two days ago. I was thinking that tree could almost sell the house for me!!
Now I’m wondering if you made it to the market yesterday.. and what wonderful stuff you’ve conjured in your Bartolini Kitchens!! After seeing your lovely peaches.. I can’t wait!! My mom is driven to insanity with deer destroying her garden at the lake. I wonder if she had an apple tree if they’d just leave the rest of her garden alone… or would it bring on a stampede of deer?
You have one as well?!! They are just so much fun!!
If you made an applesauce, Tandy, I’m certain it would be unique and wonderfully gourmet!!
You’re so right on that one! Store bought is just dreadful once you’ve tasted homemade! It’s just not always easy to find the time, I guess!
I was wondering about maple syrup.. it would be scrumptious and very Canadian:) I have never seen nor tasted Chinese rock sugar.. I think that would be so interesting and it must be delicious. Does it taste much different than plain white sugar??
I’m sure everyone around here will be soon.. fall apples are so hard to resist.. and I guess, why would we, lol?
That is good to know.. I worried it is too wide.. my own eyes got a bit tired trying to read across such a wide stretch.. but nothing’s perfect I guess:)
Oh.. I really hope the apple recipes start rolling in.. I could use some new ones!!
I went searching and found this website: http://www.dnagardens.com/Apple%20page.htm They just call them Alberta Green and they’re a late season apple and look exactly like mine.. what do you think??
I just googled Transparent.. and they look the same as well.. but it says they are early season??
Hormones maybe? Those ones body builders use?
Hahaha.. well, they haven’t worked on me yet, so that’s not a good sign, lol!
I heard of a wealthy and ambitious gentleman here in town who got an old tree from BC transported here to go with his new home design. I’m thinking if I win the lottery I might go looking for ‘that’ apple tree. I have to buy a lotto ticket first if I want a mature apple tree. LOL!
I don’t think I know where you live?? That’s such a neat story! You have to find that tree!!
Much more likely than the Transparent–yes, they were “summer apples.” What a lovely discovery–and so glad you found that tree!
Barbara! I love yr apple corer and peeler! I love kitchen gadgets too! And those apple muffins! I need to make them soon!! So lovely!!
Isn’t it fun.. I love that it has no plugs or buttons.. just simple gears and levers!
I love home made applesauce and I bet your house smelled divine the entire time! Then add muffins and you have the perfect Fall smelling house. I just looked at one of those apple corer/peelers the other day. Had to talk myself out of it. I’m sure there will be plenty to be had in New Hampshire.
Gorgeous photographs as always!
What I wouldn’t give for a day picking apples with the kids and then to top it off with making apple sauce and spicy muffins
Heaven!
Simply delicious! I cant wait to do some apple picking now
We used one of those apple peeler/corers at school the other day. It freaked my freak, and now I want one. Hard.
I love the colours and feel of this post. Sigh… perfect for a Sunday morning coffee break.
Not even close! And I agree, fruit trees are a major selling point.
I love the peeler and delicious looking muffins.
You’re welcome…..it probably has to do with the fact that I feel so at home here? I feel like I’m talking to an old friend It’s so nice….
Happy Sunday dear Barb!
Those really are some of the prettiest apples I’ve seen and if they tasted half as good as they look, then anything you made with them would be fabulous. Speaking of fabulous, both your applesauce and those muffins are looking mighty tasty!
Another great recipe! They definitely look like delicious little gems! I don’t know if you participate in blogging awards…but I have nominated you for the Super Sweet Blogging Award! You do have some super sweet recipe shares! See my bog post for details about the award.
I’m in St. John’s, Newfoundland. Yes, now I have an urge to find out that BC tree in NL. I’ll be doing a lot of asking around!
Take a photo if you find it!!
Oh yes! I’ll find a way to blog it too!
Haha.. they’re not too expensive! Hey, you could have just come over here and saved yourself going to class that day;)
Your daughter’s version of apple muffins sound great too! I like the idea that they are made with apple sauce. I’ve been on quite a muffin kick, so I’ll have to try these. I just made a big double batch of mini-pumpkin muffins this weekend and the girls loved them. It really is starting to feel like fall, isn’t it?
Well.. now that you mention mini-pumpkins it sure is!! xx
I was just looking at one of those apple peelers on our Lakeland everything for the home site and thinking do I need one and you may have just swung it…. keep thinking that I should get peeling and processing but the apples are sat in the garage right now. Lots of lovely inspiration here though – thank you!
Chinese rock sugar is a sugar combination that comes is lump and is frequently referred to as yellow rock sugar (there is a white variety now available, but I prefer the yellow ones). Rock hard and must be whacked into smaller pieces to use, (I use a hammer). It is less sweet than regular sugar and has a unique taste all its own.
So its not from sugar cane?
As always…YUM!!!
[...] and if you want another take on Apple Muffins, check out Smidge’s Saucy Apple Spice Muffins… hers look divine! (And proof that great minds think alike.) Share the [...]
One of the sugar combination is probably cane sugar.
I have a full bin of apples and looking forward to baking something yum. Thanks for the inspiration!!!
We’ve started eating apples from our trees. They are so fresh and so sweet. The red macintosh are my favorite for sauce. Yours has such a nice color. And the muffins look like a perfect, healthy mid morning nibble with tea. And definitely in my daughter’s school lunch
Oh I love all the green in these photos. That is one heck of an apple score! We picked a range of beautiful red apples last weekend, but none are so lovely as a green apple, methinks. I make applesauce like you do .
Perfect apples to make delicious sounding muffins. Using whole wheat flour must have added a lovely flavor.
Yumm! I believe in using good fruit in your baking too, or you really can taste the difference.
I love the pale green colour of the apples. I think your muffins must have tasted even better because you picked the apples yourself. They sound delicious!
Wowww….this blog is wonderfull!!!
And you are the artist of the Nature
Thank You for your sweet space
Hi
Claude
Pink is a “Pink” (a lovely flower, aptly named) but it is also juxtaposed with its cousin the lascivious… Scarlet Red
You are the maven of gorgeous desserts Smidge!
<3!
Positively exquisite and utterly seductive!
Thank you so much! Off to give these away to friends:)
Thank you Spree! I’ve been so lazy for a few days… time to get back to blogging;)
Naughty, naughty doing all this to your food — what the devil has got into you? First a blushing cake wrapped in ruffles and now a completely over-the-top brownie recipe with frosting and red hots and coulis.
Beautiful!
These look gorgeous. I love the evocative language you use to describe them.
I love the combo of chocolate and heat! Lovely little desserts!
These look lovely! I love the combination of red white and brown
Wanton, red, petals? Grief we all need a cold shower!
Your styling and photography are sooooo good! I love how you’ve gone from subtle pink to scarlet red in just two posts! These desserts look amazing. What a treat for all your family and guests.
“I’ll have what she’s having!”
1: YUM.
2: I hope there was some Chambord left over for the sipping.
3: How deeply appropriate that El Diablo requires the crushing of some hearts!!
xoxo!
Love all the gorgeous red and pink hues, especially in the brownies!
These are so beautiful, so romantic, and yes, so delicious too! How much I love your beautiful posts… Whenever I visit, I fall in love once again with your creative world. Thank you, have a nice week, with my love, nia
Happy early Valentines Day to you. Im Feverishly in love with chocolate, cinnamon and chilies combination. Take Care, BAM
Haha, I think I got tired of being “pink” Thanks, I’d forgotten they are called “red hots”.. I could name a recipe after those!
Hahaha, food does that sometimes;)
I love colors… thinking that I could post a million posts just looking at different shades of color…
Thanks!!
I think next time we should “collude” on a recipe… I’ll cook and photo.. you do the write up:) it would be sensational!!
And, yes, sadly… there will always be crushing of hearts..
xoxo Smidge
I am jumping the gun a bit with this post.. I think it’s the “school teacher” in me… as soon as Christmas winds up we’re decorating the room with hearts and making red Valentine’s Days crafts…
Absolutely gorgeous. I love everything about this…
“There’ll be a hot time in the old town tonight…” savoring those red hots and spice. Passionate dessert and elegant photography.
Sometimes I feel like I need to read your posts aloud, to truly get the feel for your prose. It’s so beautifully written. And these brownies, a little spicy treat never hurt anyone.
To think of you reading my words aloud, just gives me the biggest smile! That’s just the biggest compliment! Thanks so much Courtney!
Did someone say brownies . You know I come running when it comes to chocolate or cocoa powder . And this recipe sounds so delectable and decadent. I can’t wait to try them. And viewing all your beautiful red flowers has definitely given me an idea for a table decoration
Thanks so much, Eva. I think I picked a cutter that was a bit too small… now I have to eat two at once;)
Thank you so much… I’m so glad you liked these:)
It’s a fun combination to photograph, that’s for sure!
Hahaha, maybe… Glad you liked the dessert:)
Those brownies not just look delicious they are also an eye candy
What a wonderfu post with such beautiful pictures! I love the idea of the added heat of the pepper!
So beautifully presented and photographed Smidge!
Mandy
So beautiful, so decadent, so naughty!
Wow! Such a beautiful post, Smidge! Too hot, not hot enough, I don’t see anyone uttering anything but praise when presented with these beauties. And that coulis sounds just wonderful! Excellent post!
Beautiful post and is putting me in the mood for Valentine’s Day:) Thanks for sharing!
Amongst many possibilities with your many talents, I think you could open a smashing bakery, Smidge. These last two rounds of baked goods are over the top beautiful and delicious sounding, too! I love a little heat with chocolate and cinnamon.
Naughty and seductive – these are fantastic.
Wow, what could top those. Probably nothing. They look so perfect for Valentine’s Day and really tasty too!
Sinfully delicious…I am pinning this!
Wow- I’ve never had anything like these before. What flavorful treats these must be!
Fabulous! Your food is always so beautifully photographed. It postitively makes me drool. Gotta go get a tissue…
Perfectly wicked
Ooh, I wish I’d had those around for breakfast! Gorgeous post and blog. And that dog in your header… I’m melting! Thanks for the recipes – adding them to my stash.
Happy Birthday, Smidge!!! Hope you have a grand day!
Seriously, that is the best title for a dish. How could you not want to try something named…
El Diablo Red Velvet Saigon Cinnamon Brownies.
Hahaha, I do enjoy naming my recipes.. Almost as much as eating them. Well, maybe not! Lol! Xoxo Smidge
These are gorgeous and so decadent. Love your poetry and the beautiful photos. You are just so talented.
This l;ooks too pretty to eat!
Wow, Smidge! I’ve never seen dessert look so much like a tease! Move over Victoria’s Secret Angels, this one takes the cake!lol ~Ruth
You’re such a wonderful story teller and photographer – I want to reach into the photos and take a bite !
Could you tell me how many brownies this recipe makes?
Hi, Chelsey, it makes a 9×13″ pan.. so it would entirely depend on the size of the heart cutter you use.. smaller means more:) Also try to invert each heart (one up then one down, even a bit sideways) to minimize wasted brown between the hearts, you’ll get more that way. I hope that helps you! xx
by Barbara Bamber | justasmidgen
Oh I love these babies! They look SO good and I bet the orange curd just makes them extra special. These are perfect for any brunch! I can’t wait to test them out on my baby.
mjskit recently posted…Stovetop Macaroni and Cheese with Asparagus
… Happy Easter, I truly hope that I will get a breakfast try like that when I come and visit *laughing – wonderful … pretty and looking too good. I don’t need the sugar jar.
Look a bit like popovers to me – this I will try … now for Easter. Get visitors. Never heard about dutch babies. Have to serve it with maple syrup and strawberries.
My friends will love this. Thanks a million.
Viveka recently posted…why couldn´t they be wrong ??????
Oh yumminess!!!!!!!!
I have just bought some cute mini ramekins… can’t wait to try these beauties! amazing how they pop and without any rising agent. beautiful post, pictures and… Happy Easter! Barbara
These are lovely! What a beautiful breakfast to wake up to.
What delicious looking treats!
Scrummy! They look fantastic
Tandy recently posted…Friday’s Food Quiz Number 80
Happy Easter to you and to the family, Smidge! Oh my these little beauty’s puffed up like popovers. How fun is that! Love the blood orange curd and the 2 little recipes together would really be a nice spring dessert on any special day.
Bam’s Kitchen recently posted…Nectarine Chocolate Tart
We were away for a few days so now I’m just catching up. These look absolutely wonderful Barbara, and what a gorgeous breakfast tray. Happy Easter to you and your lovely family too.
Eva Taylor recently posted…My Easter Menu
Happy Easter! Gorgeous photos and recipes! Thanks for bringing a little spring to the weekend…
Wow! Ok first, I need some of these amaaaaaazing Dutch babies because they look so light, fluffy & delicious. Yum. Secondly, I need some of that blood orange curd because the color alone is just GORGEOUS!!! (I’m working on some curd at the moment too…) And lastly, those little pastel ramekins are just perfect- I think my heart just skipped a beat
Loved this Smidge! I’ll definitely be making this sweet treat!!! Happy Easter to you and your family xx Em
This looks like an amazing start to Easter. In one photo where they’re all puffed up they look like Yorkshire puddings! I love the look of the blood orange curd. I haven’t made a curd with blood oranges before. I’m so looking forward to seeing them in the shops this winter. I started cooking with them last winter and they’re a great orange to cook with. Happy Easter to you and all your family xx
Hotly Spiced recently posted…Spelt Hot Cross Buns and…The Emergency Meeting
This looks outstanding! It’s beautifully presented and I love the idea of blood orange curd with this. Lovely post Barb and Happy Easter!
Anne ~ Uni Homemaker recently posted…Banana Crumb Cake
Sharing a breakfast tray- now there’s an image! Fabulous job, as ever, Barbara. I came via the woodland and was enchanted by your table decoration and the whiter than white eggs too. (did you paint them?)
Your posts are always perfection and such a treat for sad old eyes. Happy, happy Easter to you.
What lovely pictures! I’d love to awake to that tray on a spring morning.
Your Dutch babies look fabulous! Have a wonderful Easter!
Tessa recently posted…Radish Sesame Salad
It would be a lovely breakfast served in bed, at the kitchen table or at a lovely decorated dining table. Happy Easter.
Karen (Back Road Journal) recently posted…Panna Cotta With Balsamic Strawberry Sauce
These little babies look so cute! Those are 4 ounce ramekins, I assume? (They sound like the size of mine, but I’m too lazy to run downstairs and actually measure them!) Great pictures – really good. And both recipes are seriously good stuff – thanks.
john@kitchenriffs recently posted…Egg Salad
Late again to the party …
You have such a knack for these things, Barb. It’s not just the delicious recipes that you share with us. It’s the way you present them and your attention to detail, making your posts a pleasure to read. Today’s post is another of a long series of beauties and the breakfast tray you prepared would delight any one lucky enough to be on its receiving end.
I hope you had a most memorable Easter with your loved ones, Barb.
ChgoJohn recently posted…Broiled Halibut with Mushrooms
this is so lovely! i’m loving the pastel colours of yr ramekins.
have yet to try dutch babies. i should give this a go soon.
Wish I can find some blood oranges! the blood orange curd looks really good and i can imagine what i can do with it if i have a jar of it in my fridge!
jo recently posted…Spring time vanilla cookies
So beautiful! And great recipe.
Trifect of awesomeness pretty much sums these up Smidge !
Carolyn Chan recently posted…Restaurant Cal Pep, Barcelona
I just want to say… “Can I come and live with you?”…(just for a week lol) Everything is just so yummy looking and sounding..Diane
writerwannabe763 recently posted…‘Good’ Friday
Oh I would love to have these served to me in bed Smidge! What a great idea. I have a feeling I’d have to make them myself and hop back in bed to be served though. LOL. They look delicious and that blood orange curd sounds divine! Happy Easter to you!
As always, your posts are just SO beautiful, Smidge. Such an eye you have! These sound and look delicious! xx
Celia recently posted…In My Kitchen, April 2013
Had never heard of these but they look so good think I’ll have to give them a try very soon!
Chica Andaluza recently posted…Sweets for my sweet, sugar for my honey
What an adorable name for such a cute treat!! Dutch babies…I will remember this..thanks for sharing.
Laurie @ Pride in Photos Photography recently posted…Disney’s POP Century Resort…SO Fun!
Wow, Barb! The Dutch Babies and Blood Orange Curd are just wonderful. I do a lot of entertaining with overnight guests. We joke about being an “unregistered” bed and breakfast, so these are definitely going to become part of my favorite morning offerings. I love the look and love the taste they will deliver. I did love the comment made about your husband being absolutely sure photos were complete before taking another Dutch Baby! Your photos are exqusite!
Debra recently posted…More from the La Brea Tar Pits…a treasure-trove of old bones
Oh my goodness, this looks fabulous! I can’t wait to try the blood orange curd. YUM!
Lilly Sue recently posted…Georgia Brews
What a beautiful set up- food and all!
Please do tell who makes these ramekins. x
wendy@chezchloe recently posted…Good eats in NYC
That looks like a better version of souffle. I has risen really well
Raymund recently posted…Beef Ribs Churrascaria
I love your Dutch Babies! I’m going to have to try to make them gluten free and dairy free. I’ve been wanting to make Meyer Lemon Curd…but I keep using them for cocktails instead. Ha!
Beautiful post as always! ~ April
I hope it’s not wrong to love your pretty ramekins as much as the delicious Dutch babies you’ve baked inside of them. Your photos look a little like an advertisement for a wonderful bed and breakfast! I’m anxious to try this recipe for an upcoming weekend breakfast with my family!!
Allison@Main St. Cuisine recently posted…Three Bean Salad with Fresh Mint
There are days I so wish I had a Bed and Breakfast.. and others when I wish I was just at one, lol! Allison, I found these at a neighbor’s garage sale.. I could have bought everything she had, but I ran out of cupboard space:D xx
Ooohhh.. it’s Friday night and I have a couple of blood oranges left.. I’m off to find a cocktail recipe:D
[...] A sweet little blood orange tarty bit from this recipe is spooned in dreamy little browned butter crusts. [...]