Waldorf Salad

I love this for lunch or a side dish.  If I make it for dinner I like to add grilled chicken to it.  The measurements for the fruit and veggies do not need to be exact for this salad.  

WALDORF SALAD

(serves 4-6)

Dressing Ingrediens:

*3 tablespoons plain greek yogurt

*3 tablespoons mayonnaise 

*1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice

*1 tablespoon honey

Salad Ingredients:

*2 Granny Smith apples, chopped (or any firm apple)

*2 celery stalks, chopped  (1 cup)

*1 cup red or green seedless grapes, halved 

*1 cup walnuts, chopped

*1/2 cup dried cranberries (optional)

*1/2 teaspoon salt

Dressing Directions:

~In a large bowl, whisk  3 tablespoons plain greek yogurt, 3 tablespoons mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon honey together.

Salad Directions:

~Toast 1 cup slivered almonds in a medium skillet until lightly toasted (when you start to smell it, it's done).

~Set aside and cool completely. 

~In a large bowl, mix toasted almonds, 2 chopped Granny Smith apples, 2 chopped celery stalks, 1 cup halved grapes, 1/2 cup dried cranberries, and 1/2 teaspoon salt until well incorporated.

~Place in a clean bowl and cover.

~Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving (a few hours is even better).

Snickerdoodle Apple Pie

 The mixture of these two go really good together.    

SNICKERDOODLE APPLE PIE

(serves 8)

Apple Pie Filling Ingredients:

*1/4 cup butter

*6 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled & sliced thin

*1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed

*1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

*1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Snickerdoodle Ingredients:

*3/4 cup butter, softened

*3/4 cup granulated sugar

*1 large egg, room temperature

*2 teaspoons vanilla extract (maple extract is good too)

*1/2 teaspoon baking soda

*1/2 teaspoon cram of tarter

*1/2 teaspoon salt

*2 cups all-purpose flour

Topping Ingredients:

*1/2 cup granulated sugar

*1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

Apple Pie Filling Directions:

~Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

~In a large skillet, over medium-low heat, add 6 cups sliced apples, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg.

~Stir to coat the apples and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring often (until apples become semi-soft).

~Remove from stove and set aside.

Snickerdoodle Topping Directions:

~In a large mixing bowl, 3/4 cup softened cream butter and 3/4 granulated  sugar together until smooth.

~Beat in 1 egg and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (or 1 teaspoon maple extract).

~Sift in 2 cups flour, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon cream of tarter, and 1/2 teaspoon salt and mix until well incorporated.

~Pour apple mixture into a 9x13 inch baking dish.

~Using a tablespoon, scoop dollops of cookie dough mixture over apples.

Topping Directions:

~In a small bowl, whisk 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon together.

~Sprinkle over cookie dough and apples.

~Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cookie dough starts to brown.

~Serve warm or cold.

Healthy Apple/Banana Oatmeal Bread

 There is no flour, sugar or milk in this recipe, but it's still sweet and so good.   I put dried cranberries, dried cherries, or raisins in mine, but you can leave those out if you choose.  Watch what dried fruit you use for sugar content.

HEALTY APPLE/BANANA OATMEAL BREAD

(makes 1 loaf)

Ingredients:

*1 cup oatmeal

*2 apples

*1 banana

*3 1/2 ounces water

*2 large eggs

*2/3 cup dried cranberries, cherries or raisins (optional)

*1 teaspoon baking powder

*1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

*1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Directions:

~Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

~Place 1 cup oatmeal into a blender or food processor, and blend until it becomes a powder.

~Pour oatmeal powder into a large mixing bowl.

~Cut up 2  apples (remove the core) and 1 banana and place into mixer or food processor.

~Add 3 1/2 ounces water and blend until smooth like applesauce.

~Pour into mixing bowl and mix with oatmeal powder.

~Mix in 2 large eggs until well combined.

~Mix in 2/3 cup cranberries (or cherries or raisins).

~Mix in 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg until well combined. 

~Spray a loaf pan with cooking spray.

~Pour mixture into prepared pan.

~Bake for 40-45 minutes or until done or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean.

Snickers Apple Salad Trifle

This is a big party hit.   Quick and easy to make.  

SNICKERS APPLE SALAD TRIFLE 

(serves 6)

Ingredients:

*1 (16 ounce) whip cream, thawed

*1 (5 ounce) box vanilla  or cheesecake instant pudding 

*1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream

*4 large apples (I use two different types, Granny Smith and gala), chopped into bite size pieces

*2 cups seedless green or red grapes, halved

*4 (2 ounce) snickers bars, cut into bite size pieces

*2 tablespoons peanuts (optional)

*1/2 cup caramel sauce

Directions:

~In a large bowl, whisk 5 ounce box pudding and 1/2 cup milk together for 1-2 minutes. 

~Fold in 16 ounce cool whip, until well combined and smooth.

~Fold in 4 chopped apples, 2 cups grapes, 8 ounces snickers bar, and 2 tablespoons nuts.

~Place half of salad in a clean bowl.

~Drizzle with half of the caramel sauce.

~Add the remaining salad to the bowl.

~Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over it.

~Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour.

• Chill before serving (I like to chill overnight, but chill a minimum of 2-4 hours).

Cranberry Apple Coleslaw

 I am not a coleslaw eater, but I do like this recipe.  It tastes best if you allow it to sit in the refrigerator for a few hours before eating.

CRANBERRY APPLE  SALAD

(serves 8)

Salad Ingredients:

*1 (14 ounce) bag coleslaw mix

*2 medium apples, chopped into bite size pieces

*3/4 cup dried cranberries

*1 cup walnuts, chopped

*5 green onion tops, sliced small

Dressing Ingredients:

*1 cup mayonnaise (add 1 cup if not adding yogurt).

*1 cup plain greek yogurt (omit if dairy free)

*1/4 cup honey

*3/4 teaspoon ground ginger

*1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Directions:

~In a large bowl, mix 1 (14 ounce) bag coleslaw mix, 2 medium chopped apples, 3/4 cup dried cranberries, 1 cup chopped walnuts, and 5 chopped green onion tops.

~In a medium bowl, whisk 1 cup mayonnaise, 1 cup plain greek yogurt, 1/4 cup honey, 3/4 teaspoon ground ginger, and 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon. 

~Pour the dressing ingredients over the salad and stir until completely coated.

~Cover bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.

Fried Apple Pie

You can get two treats with this recipe.   Put the dough that you trim off in the  hot oil and fry for about 1 1/2-2 minutes.   Remove from oil and place in a bowl with cinnamon sugar.   Place on aa cooling rack until cool.

Large Fried Apple Pies

Mini Fried Apple Pies

                                              

FRIED APPLE PIE

(makes 8 large or 16 mini)

Crust Ingredients:

*3 cups all-purpose flour

*1 teaspoon salt

*1 teaspoon granulated sugar

*2 tablespoons butter, cut into cubes

*3 tablespoons lard

*3/4 cup very cold water

Filling Ingredients:

*1 1/2 pounds apples, peeled and diced small

*1/3 cup light brown sugar

*1/4 teaspoon salt

*1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

*1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

*3 tablespoons cornstartch

*2 tablespoon butter, softened 

*1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Glaze Ingredients:

*1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

*1 tablespoon milk

*1/2 cup powdered sugar

Crust Directions:

~In a large mixing bowl, 3 cups sift flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon granulated sugar.

~Add in 2 tablespoons butter and  3 tablespoons lard and using a pastry blender or fork, work into dry ingredients until pea size pieces form

~Make a well in the center of the flour mixture.

~Add 3/4 cup cold water and mix until combined.

~Fold the dough onto it's self until you can form a into a ball.

~Shape dough into a log.

~Cut into 8 equal pieces, and pat into a disk (16 for mini's)

~Place each piece onto a piece of wax paper or parchment paper.

~Wrap in refrigerator for 45 minutes.

Filling Directions:

~Peel, core, and dice 1 1/2 pounds apples.

~In a medium bowl, mix apples,  1/3 cup brown sugar, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg together until apples are well coated.

~Allow mixture to rest for 30-40 minutes.

~Stir in 3 tablespoons cornstarch and 2 tablespoons softened butter until the cornstarch is mixed well (no lumps).

~Transfer to a large skillet.

~Sauté over medium heat, bringing mixture to a boil, stirring often.

~Once mixture comes to a boil, boil for one minute, stirring continuously.

~Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

~Allow mixture to come to room temperature.  

Let's make the Pie:

~Remove dough from refrigerator.

~Flour a clean surface.

~Roll each disk to about 8-inch circle (don't worry about it being a perfect circle).

~Put a piece of parchment paper or wax paper on a cookie sheet.

~Place dough onto prepared pan.

~Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30-40 minutes.

~Remove dough from the refrigerator.

~Place on a lightly floured surface.

~Brush the edge of the dough with a light layer of water.

~Place about 1/4 cup apple pie filling onto one half of dough (1/8 cup for mini's)

~Fold dough in half pulling over pie filling.

~Crimp dough together. 

~Trim any excess dough off.

~Place pie on parchment paper.

~Pour about 6-7 cups vegetable oil in a large heavy bottom skillet.

~Heat oil over medium heat until oil reaches 350 degrees.

~Carefully place one or two pies in hot oil.

~Fry for about 3 - 4 minutes per side or until golden brown.

~Remove from hot oil and place on a cooling rack.

Glaze Directions:

~Whisk all the 1/2 cup powdered sugar, 1 tablespoon milk and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract together until smooth.

~Using a pastry brush, brush glaze over hot pies.

~Allow to sit for 10 minutes and enjoy.

Apple Fritters

Most apple fritters recipes do not cook the apples first.  I however, do not like apples to be crunchy in donuts.  Cooking them just a little bit, help soften them up.   For a different twist, use a little maple flavoring in the glaze,  It's pretty amazing that way.

APPLE FRITTERS

(makes 8-10)

Fritter Ingredients:

*1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

*1/4 cup granulated sugar

*2 teaspoons baking powder

*1/2 teaspoon salt

*1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

*2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

*1/3 cup whole milk   

*2 large eggs

*2 tablespoons applesauce (optional)    

*2 large apples, peeled and cored, and chopped small (I prefer Granny Smith)

*vegetable oil for frying  

Glaze Ingredients:

*2 cups powdered sugar

*1/4 cup whole milk or heavy cream

*1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (sometimes I like to use 1/4 teaspoon maple flavoring instead)

*1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon.

Glaze Directions:

~In a medium bowl, sift 2 cups powdered sugar, 1/2 cup milk, 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon together until smooth (it will be runny).

Fritter Directions:

~In a medium skillet, over medium heat, sauté 2 large chopped apples for 2 or 3 minutes, or until they soften up a little.

~Remove from heat and place in a strainer.

~Allow apples to come to room temperature.

~In a large mixing bowl, whisk 1 1/2 cups flour, 1/4 cup sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg and 2 teaspoons cinnamon together.

~Make a well in the center of the flour mixture.

~In a small mixing bowl, whisk 1/3 cup milk, 2 large eggs, and 2 tablespoons applesauce together.

~Pour milk mixture into the center of the flour mixture.

~Mix until just incorporated (to not over mix).

~Fold in apples.

~Pour oil into a heavy bottom skillet (about 2 inches deep), to 375 degrees.

~Drop by 1/4 cup of fritter batter into hot oil.

~Cook about 2 minutes per side or until golden brown (it's important to try to keep the oil as close to  375 degrees as possible).

~Using a slotted spoon or spider, remove fritters and place on a paper towel lined plate.

~Drip warm fritters into glaze, coating all sides and place on a cooling rack to finish cooling.

**Best eaten the day you make them, but if you are going to store some, warp them lightly n paper towel, and place in a brown paper bag.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple Cider Vinegar has so many health benefits.   I save the peelings and cores from the apples when I can applesauce to make it (no waste), but you can use fresh cut up apples.

                                                                       (Step One)

                  (Step Two.  When the stuff starts to float, remove the apples, cores, and skin.

                                                  (Still Step Two.  The color will be very light)

                                   (Step Three.  After setting for 6 weeks.  It becomes dark in color)

APPLE CIDER VINEGAR

Ingredients:

*apple peelings and cores or fresh apples with stem and seeds removed

*granulated sugar (1 tablespoon per cup of water used)

*filtered water (or use tap water, but fill a picture the night before and let it sit on your counter overnight before using it.  This allows any chorine to  that's in the chlorinated water)

*canning jar (I use a 2 quart one, but use whatever size you want)

*coffee filter

*rubber band

Step One Directions:

~Fill your canning jar 3/4 full of apple peelings or cut up apples.

~Add 1 tablespoon sugar.

~Pour filtered into jar leaving 3 inches from top.

~Stir mixture.

~Cover jar with coffee filter and loosely wrap a rubber band around it.

~Store in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks (I put my in my kitchen cupboard).

~Stir once every day (if you forget a day or two,  don't worry, if scum develops, just skim it off).

Step Two:

~Once apples float to top you are ready for step two.

~Strain liquid from apple pulp/apples into a large container.

~Throw away scraps, and pour liquid into canning jar.

~Place a new coffee filter over the top and loosely place rubber band around it.

~Place into a cool dark place for 6 weeks (no need to stir it during this time.

Step Three:

~When the liquid darkens and has that vinegar smell, it is ready.

~Place a lid on jar and store in cupboard like you would for your store-bought.

~It's now ready for use.

Caramel Apple Pecan Roll

 This recipe screams fall.   You can leave the nuts out and it will still be delicious.   

CARAMEL APPLE PECAN ROLL

(serves 10)

Cake Ingredients:

*5 large eggs

*1 egg yolk

*3/4 cup granulated sugar

*1 teaspoon vanilla extract

*1 1/8 cup all-purpose flour

*1/4 teaspoon salt

*1 teaspoon baking powder

*1 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

*1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

*1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

*1/8 teaspoon ground cloves

Filling Ingredients:

*4 granny smith apples, grated

*1/4 stick butter

*1/8 cup light brown sugar, not packed

*1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

*2 tablespoons butter, softened

*8 ounces cream cheese, softened

*1 cup powdered sugar

*1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

*1 teaspoon vanilla extract

*1 tablespoon caramel sauce

*1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

*caramel sauce for drizzling 

Cake Directions:

~Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

~Line a 10x15 jelly roll pan with parchment paper or wax paper and spray with cooking spray.

~In a large mixing bowl, whisk 5 large eggs, 1 egg yolk and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for about 2 minutes.

~In another bowl, sift 1 1/8 cup flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoons ginger, 1/8 teaspoons ground cloves, and baking powder together. 

~Mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until smooth.

~Pour batter into prepared pan.

~Bake for 15 minutes. 

~Remove from oven and allow to cool for 5-8 minutes (cool enough to handle.

~Dust a tea towel with powdered sugar.

~Gently flip cake onto dusted tea towel.

~Roll up the cake by rolling towel inside cake.

~Place on a cooling rack seam side down, and allow to cool completely.

Filling Directions:

~Peel and grate 4 apples.

~In a medium saucepan, melt 1/4 stick (1/8 cup) butter.

~Add grated apples, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon and 1 teaspoon brown sugar.

~Sauté for about 4 or 5 minutes or until apples are tender.

~Place into a strainer to remove any excess liquid (I leave it there for about 5-10 minutes.

~In a mixing bowl, mix 2 tablespoons butter, 8 ounces cream cheese, 1 cup powdered sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon caramel sauce   together until smooth.

~Unroll cake.

~Spread filling evenly over cake, leaving a 1/2-inch space around edges.

~Spread apples evenly over cream cheese.

~Sprinkle 1 cup chopped walnut or pecans over apples.

~Drizzle caramel sauce over mixture.

~Roll up again without the tea towel.

~Wrap tightly with plastic wrap.

~Refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

~Unwrap, slice and serve.

Apple Pie Bars

Fall time means apple picking time around here.   A tasty way to use up some of those apples.

APPLE PIE BARS

(serves 12)

Crust Ingredients:

*4 sticks of butter (2 cups), softened

*3/4 cup granulated sugar

*3/4 cup light brown sugar (don't pack it)

*1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

*4 cups all-purpose flour

*1 teaspoon salt

Topping Ingredients: 

*1/2 cup pecans or walnuts

*1 teaspoon cinnamon

*Caramel Sauce (I use ice cream topping for this)

Filling Ingredients:

*3 granny smith apples

*3 Jonathan gold or golden delicious apples, peeled, cored and sliced thin

*1 tablespoon lemon juice

*1/4 cup granulated sugar

*1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

*1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

*1/4 cup butter, softened

Crust Directions:

~Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

~Spray a 9x13 inch pan with cooking spray.

~In a large mixing bowl, mix 2 sticks (2 cups) butter, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 3/4 brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla for 3 minutes on medium speed, scraping sides of bowl so that everything gets mixed in well.

~In a medium bowl, mix 4 cups flour and 1 teaspoon salt tougher.

~Gradually mix into butter mixture, until well combined.

~Remove around 1/3 of dough and set aside.

~Press remains dough into bottom prepared pan and up the sided about 1/2 inch.

~Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is a golden brown.

~Remove from oven and set aside.

Filling directions:

~In a large bowl, mix 3 thinly sliced Granny Smith apples, 3 thinly sliced  golden delicious apples, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon, and 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg until apples are well coated.

~Melt 1/4 cup butter into a large skillet.

~Add apple mixture, and cook over medium-low heat for 15-17 minutes, or until apples are fork tender (stir often).

~Spread apple mixture over crust, leaving a 1/2 inch border free of filling.

Topping Ingredients:

~Mix remaining crust dough, pecans or walnuts, and cinnamon until well mixed.

~Sprinkle over top of apple filling.

~Bake for  30 minutes, or until topping is starting to brown.

~Cool bar completely.

~Drizzle desired amount of caramel sauce over bars.

Apple Ham Salad

Yet another salad that I enjoy.   I put a maple dressing on this, but you can you any dressing you want.  

APPLE HAM SALAD

(serves 4)

Salad Ingredients:

*2 crisp apples, peeled, cored, and sliced thin

*Juice from one lemon

*1 (16 ounce bag) mixed greens

*1/3 cup dried cranberries or raisins 

*1/3 cup pecans, copped (I like to toast mine)

*1/4 cup red onion, sliced thin 

*1/2 cup celery, sliced thin

*3 or 4 radishes, sliced thin (optional)

*6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled

*1/2 pound black forest ham, cut into thin strips

*1/4 pound sharp cheddar cheese, cut into thin strips

*Feta cheese crumbles (optional)

Maple Dressing Ingredients:

*2 tablespoons pure maple syrup

*1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

*2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

*1 tablespoon granulated sugar

*1/2 cup olive oil

*1/8 teaspoon salt

*1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper

*2 teaspoons poppy seeds

Salad Dressing Directions:

~Whisk 2 tablespoons maple syrup, 1 tablespoon dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, 1/2 cup olive oil, 1/8 teaspoon salt, 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper, an 2 teaspoons poppy seeds into a bowl until well combined.

~Allow to sit for 15 minutes before serving over salad.

Salad Directions:

~In a large bowl, toss 2 sliced apples with the lemon juice squeezed from one lemon.

~Mix in 16 ounce bag mixed salad greens.

~Add 1/3 cup dried cranberries, 1/3 cup pecans, 1/4  cup sliced red onion, 1/4 cup chopped celery,  3 sliced radishes and 6 slices crumbled bacon and toss .

~Arrange cheese and ham over top of salad.

~Sprinkle desired amount of feta cheese over top.

~Serve up salad .

~Drizzle desired amount of salad dressing over each salad (you may need to whisk dressing again before putting on salad). 

Grilled Apple and Walnut Salad

 Great for lunch or dinner.   Sometimes I add grilled chicken to this salad.  I like to pair it with cilantro orange balsamic vinaigrette, poppy sesame-seed dressing, or fresh raspberry vinaigrette.

GRILLED APPLE AND WALNUT SALAD

(serves 2-4)

Ingredients:

*2 large apples, cut into 1/2 slices

*1/4 cup fruit basted vinaigrette salad dressing (I use one of the dressings listed above)

*1 (5 ounce) package mixed greens or your favorite greens

*1 cup walnut halves, toasted

*1-2 celery stalks,  chopped small

*1/2 cucumber, sliced

*1 small carrot, diced small

*1/4 red onion, sliced

*1/4 cup bleu cheese crumbles

Directions:

~Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

~Bake walnuts for 5-8 minutes, being careful not to burn them.

~Remove from oven, and allow to cool.

~Brush your favorite vinaigrette dressing on both sides of apple slices.

~Grill apples over medium heat, covering them while they cook (about 4 minutes per side).

~Place mixed greens in a large bowl.

~Add celery,  cucumber, carrots, red onion, apples, walnuts, and bleu cheese crumbles.

~Drizzle desired amount of your favorite salad dressing on top.

~Toss and serve immediately. 

Dutch Apple Pie

Add some pecans to the topping to make this even better.  A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top and you'll be doing a happy dance.

DUTCH APPLE PIE

(serves 8)

Pie Filling Ingredients:

*1 uncooked pie crust (homemade or store bought refrigerated)

*6 granny smith apples

*3 red delicious apples 

*lemon zest from 1 lemon (optional)

*1/3 cup granulated sugar

*3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

*2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

*1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Crumb Topping Ingredients:

*1 cup all-purpose flour

*1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed

*1/2 cup granulated sugar

*1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

*1/2 cup butter, softened 

Pie Directions:

~Preheat oven to 425 degrees.

~Peel, core, and slice 6 Granny Smith and 3 red delicious apples 1/8-1/2 inch thickness.

~In a medium bowl, toss apple slices, lemon zest from 1 lemon, 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons cinnamon, 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg and 3 tablespoons flour.

~Line pie tin with pie crust.

~Fill pie curst with filling.

Crumb Topping Directions:

~In a medium bowl, cut with fork 1 cup flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon and 1/2 softened butter.

~Top pie with crumb mixture and gently pat down.

~Bake for 15 minuttes.

~Reduce heat to 350 degrees and bake for another 55-60 minutes.  

~Remove from heat and allow to cool.

Zucchini Carrot Apple Bread

This is so moist and tasty.  It must be healthy with all the fruit and veggies in it, right?   I do love the orange glaze on top, but it's just as good without it.

ZUCCHINI CARROT APPLE BREAD
(makes 2 loafs)

Ingredients:
*1 cup butter, melted
*2 cups granulated sugar
*3 large eggs
*juice squeezed from one orange (about 1/3 cup)
*2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
*3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
*2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
*1/2 teaspoon salt
*1/2 teaspoon baking soda
*2 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
*1 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon
*1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
*2 cups shredded carrots
*1 cup shredded zucchini, seeds removed
*1 cup diced, peeled apples
*1/2 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped

Topping Ingredients:
*1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
*1/4 cup butter, softened
*1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
*2-3 cups powdered sugar
*3 teaspoons orange juice
*1/2 teaspoon grated orange peel

Bread Directions:
~Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
~Spray 2 loaf pans (8x4 inch) with cooking spray and then coat with flour.
~Place 1 cup shredded zucchini in a clean towel and squeeze any excess liquid from it.
~Place zucchini in a mesh strainer over a bowl and set aside.
~In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 1/2 cups four, 1/2 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 2  1/2 teaspoons baking powder, 1 1/4 teaspoons ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg.
~In another mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup melted butter and 2 cups sugar.
~Stir in 3 eggs, 1 egg at a time.
~Stir in 1/3 cup orange juice and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract.
~Fold flour mixture into egg mixture.
~Gently fold in 2 cups shredded carrots, 1 cup drained zucchini, 1 cup diced apples, and 1/2 cup nuts.
~Pour into prepared loaf pans.
~Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until bread springs back when gently pressed with fingers.
~Remove from oven and allow to cool for 10 minutes.
~Remove from pans and allow to cool completely on a cooling rack.

Topping Ingredients:

~In  a small bowl, cream 1/4 cup butter, 1/2 teaspoon orange zest, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/2 cup cream cheese until mixed well.
~Add 2 cups of powdered sugar and mix in well.
~Drizzle in 3 teaspoons orange juice 1 teaspoon at a time until desired consistency.
~Drizzle over cooled bread.

~Allow for glaze to set before cutting bread.

Apple Coconut Bread

I love most anything with coconut in it.   This is soooo good.  To make it even better add about 1/2 cup chocolate chips.  I've also been known to add a glaze over the top of it while it's still warm.

APPLE COCONUT BREAD
(makes 1 loaf)

Ingredients:
*1 teaspoons ground cinnamon
*2 tablespoons granulated sugar
*3 medium apples, peeled and chopped
*1/3 cup light brown sugar
*2/3 cup granulated sugar
*1/2 cup butter, softened
*2 large eggs
*2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
*1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
*1 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
*1/2 teaspoon salt
*1 teaspoon ground  cinnamon
*1/4 cup milk
*1 cup flaked unsweetened coconut

Directions:
~Preheat ove to 350 degrees.
~Spray a 9 x15 inch loaf pan with cooking spray.
~In a medium bowl, mix 3 diced apples, 1 teaspoon cinnamon and 2 tablespoon granulated sugar until apples are well coated.
~In mixing bowl, beat 1/3 cup light brown sugar, 2/3 cup granulated sugar and 1/2 cup butter together until smooth and creamy.
~Beat in 2 large eggs, 1 at a time.
~Stir in 2 teaspoons vanilla extract and 1/4 cup milk.
~Sift 1 1/2 cups flour, 1 1 3/4 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon salt into butter mixture.
~Mix until just blended.
~Mix in 1/4 cup milk until batter is smooth.
~Stir in 1 cup coconut and apples.
~Pour into prepared pan.
~Bake for 55-60 minutes.
~Remove from oven and allow to cool for 10 minutes before removing from pan.
~Allow to cool on a wire rack.

Pecan Apple Pie

I love pecan pie, but I normally only eat a small amount of it because it's so sweet.   I love this pie, because it's not a sweet.    Great for a Thanksgiving dessert.

PECAN APPLE PIE
(serves 8)

Ingredients:
*1 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
*1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed firmly
*1/3 cup butter, melted
*2 pie crusts (make your own or buy refrigerated pie crusts)
*1  teaspoons all-purpose flour
*6 medium granny smith apples, sliced and peeled
*1/4 cup granulated sugar
*2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
*3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
*1/8 teaspoon nutmeg

Directions:
~Heat oven to 375 degrees.
~In a small bowl, mix 1 1/4 cup chopped pecans, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and 1/3 cup melted butter.
~Spread evenly over the bottom of a 9-inch pie plate.
~Dust both sides of crust with the 1 teaspoon of flour.
~Place dusted bottom crust over the pecan mixture.
~Press down the insides of the pan.
~In a large bowl, combine 6 sliced apples, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg.
~Spoon into pie crust.
~Top with second pie crust and seal both crusts together.
~Cut 3-5 slits in top of crust.
~I like to lightly sprinkle crust with cinnamon sugar, but this is optional.
~Place pie plate on cookie sheet, to catch any over spill.
~Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust in a golden brown.
~Remove from oven and allow to cool for 5 minutes.
~Place a large serving place over pie and careful invert pie.
~Cool completely before serving.

Candy Apple

I have brother-in-law and a daughter that love Candy Apples.   They really are easy to make and doesn't take very long.   To me Candy Apples & Caramel Apples just scream Autumn time to me. 

CANDY APPLE
(serves 6)

Ingredients:
*2 cups granulated sugar
*3/4 cup water
*1/2 cup light corn syrup
*6 medium to small apples of your choice (I use macintosh)
*6 popsicle sticks
*2-5 drops red food coloring (optional)

Directions:
~Spread butter on a sheet of parchment paper.
~Heat up a medium bowl of very hot water (not boiling).
~Remove stems from apples.
~Dip apples in hot water for a few seconds and then dry off (removes any wax).

~Insert popsicle sticks into apples.

~In a medium heavy saucepan, mix 2 cups sugar, 3/4 cup water, 1/2 cup corn syrup & 2-5 drops red food coloring.
~Bring to a boil over hight heat.
~Once mixture starts to boil, turn heat down to medium-high heat.
~Continue to boil until mixture comes to the hard crack stage (between 300-310 degrees).
~Quickly and carefully dip apples into sugar mixture until completely covered.
~Set on butter parchment paper.
~Set until completely cooled.

Variation:
`put 1 cup of red hot candies into the mixture to melt.  This give it a slight taste of cinnamon and you won't need the food coloring.

Caramel Apples

Fall time just screams caramel apples to me.  If you have never had a caramel apple made with homemade caramel sauce, you need to try it.   So good.   Using a fresh Michigan grown apple even will make it better.

CARAMEL APPLES

(serves 8)

Ingredients:
*8 -10 medium apples of your choice (I use Macintosh or Granny Smith)
*2 cups brown sugar
*1 cup light corn syrup
*5 tablespoons butter
*1 1/2 cup heavy cream

*1/4 teaspoon salt
*1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

*8-10 popsicle sticks (or heavy sucker sticks)

Directions:
~In a medium bowl of  hot water (not boiling)
~Remove stems from apples.
~Dip apples into water for 1 second or two (removes any wax or any pesticides).
~Dry apples with a towel

~Insert popsicle sticks into apple.
~Use a silicone mat or a parchment paper that is spayed with cooking spray.
~In a large heavy sauce pan, mix 5 tablespoons butter, 2 cups brown sugar, 1 cup corn syrup, 1 1/2 cups heavy cream and 1/4 teaspoon salt.

~Heat in a medium to large heavy bottom sauce pan, over medium-low heat.

~Stir until butter has melted.

~Once butter has melted stop stirring until mixture reaches 235-240 degrees (once in a while washing down sides of pan with a wet pastry brush to keep from crystals forming).

~Remove from heat, and stir in 1 tablespoon vanilla extract.

~Cool for about 10 minutes or until mixture reaches 190 degrees.

~Dip apple into the caramel, allowing excess caramel to drip off.

~(If using toppings nuts, sprinkles, mini m&m's, coconut) Dip into toppings and place on silicon mat or prepared parchment paper.

~Allow to cool completely.

~Drizzle melted chocolate on apples now if desired.  Allow chocolate to harden before eating.

Apple Cinnamon Cake

I am very partial to cinnamon.   I love the taste.   I love the smell of it cooking.  I even love the color of it.   This cake is easy to make and tastes wonderful.

APPLE CINNAMON CAKE
(serves 12)

Ingredients:
*1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
*1/2 cup butter, softened 
*1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
*3/4 cup cream cheese, softened
*2 eggs, room temperature
*1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
*1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
*1/4 teaspoon salt
*3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
*1/4 cup granulated sugar

• *2 rome apples, peeled & chopped
• *1 jonathan apple, peeled & chopped
• *3/4 cup pecan or walnuts, chopped (optional)

Directions:

~Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

~In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 1/2 cups sugar, 1/2 cup butter,  1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract and 3/4 cup cream cheese, about 4 minutes.

~Add 2 large eggs, 1 egg at a time, beating between each egg.

~In a large bowl, sift 1 1/2 cups flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon salt together.

~Add dry ingredients into the creamed mixture, mixing at low speed.

~In the bowl that the flour was in, mix 1/3 cup sugar & 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon.

~Combine 3 tablespoons cinnamon sugar to chopped apples. 

~Mix in 3/4 cup pecans/walnuts.

~Stir 2 chopped apples into cake batter.

~Spray cooking spray into a 8 or 9-inch spring form pan or a 9 inch square pan.

~Pour cake batter into pan.

~Sprinkle remaining cinnamon sugar over cake batter.

~Bake for 1 hour & 15 minutes.

~Cool cake on a wire rack.

~Best to cut the cake with a serrated knife.


Variation:
-make a glaze to pour over the top of the cake while it's still a little warm.
-add 1 cup raisins to batter.

• 
  

Apple Cinnamon Syrup

This is pretty tasty.  You don't need much on your pancake, because of the sweetness.  Make you don't let it boil at to high of a heat or it will become crystalized.  So yummy on pancakes.

APPLE CINNAMON SYRUP
(Serves 8)

Ingredients:
*1/4 cup white sugar
*3/4 cup light brown sugar
*2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
*3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
*1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
*1 cup water
*1 apple, peeled, cored, and chopped into small pieces (optional)
*1/2 tablespoon butter

Directions:
~Stir the 1/4 cup white sugar, 3/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons flour and 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon together in a small saucepan.
~Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla and 1 cup water.
~Add 1 chopped apple.
~Bring to a boil, over medium heat, stirring often.
~Continue to boil and stirring until syrup has thickened to syrup consistency.
~Remove from heat.
~Stir in 1/2 tablespoon butter.
~Cool for 10 minutes before serving.