Some Things

Upstate after the holiday, Gramercy Tavern's gingerbread (with Guinness), Mark Bittman pickles, and the start of holiday decorating. I love this time of year.

Thanksgiving Pies

Came out great despite my obsesssing. I made a bourbon sweet potato, with graham cracker pecan ginger crust (laying out ingredients to emphasize yumminess), and star anise infused maple pecan rum pie (yes another Melissa Clark recipe). Now the countdown begins to my December plan of 1 cookie recipe per weekend, can't wait!

Totally trying this

How to Be a Girl: Cat Eyes By Magic! from The Hairpin on Vimeo.

Pie Crust Basics

I really like this video from Melissa Clark, she makes pie crust straightforward and manageable. Do not hesitate to make your own tomorrow, it will come together I promise!

Maple Buttermilk Pie

Made this as a dry run for Thursday's pie extravaganza, and it was great. Even better when chilled in the fridge over night. Kind of like a lemony, maple custard.

Lucy Chadwick and the Selby

Simple and lovely

Lemony Olive Oil Banana Bread

I was so excited to make this, it's also from Melissa Clark's new book but Heidi added a lemon twist that was totally intriguing so I used her recipe (and photography) instead. I definitely recommend this one! No butter, made with yogurt, and still super moist. The one thing I would add is walnuts, which I debated and then regretted not tossing them in. Make it and love it!