Category: Autumn Edition

When autumn rolls around, nothing feels quite as festive as a freshly baked pumpkin pie. With its velvety spiced filling and buttery crust, this pie captures the essence of fall in every slice. Whether you are planning a cosy Sunday bake, a seasonal gathering or a festive holiday table, pumpkin pie is a timeless favourite.

Why Pumpkin Pie is an Autumn Essential

• Seasonal Flavours: Pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves are the epitome of fall flavours.
• Simple to Make: Just a pie crust, blended filling and a bit of patience while it bakes.
• Perfect for Sharing: Serve with whipped cream or ice cream for the ultimate autumn treat.

Ingredients (1 Standard 23cm/ 9 inch Pie)

For the Pie Crust (or use store bought): 

• 250g plain flour
• 125g cold butter, cubed
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• Pinch of salt
• 3-4 tablespoons cold water

For the Pumpkin Filling: 

• 425g pumpkin purée (canned or homemade)
• 2 large eggs + 1 egg yolk
• 150g soft brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon ground ginger
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• Pinch of salt
• 240ml evaporated milk (or double cream for a richer version)

How to Make Pumpkin Purée (If Not Using Canned)

1. Use a small sugar or pie pumpkin. Cut in half and scoop out the seeds.
2. Roast cut-side down at 180°C for 40-50 minutes until tender.
3. Scoop out the flesh and blend until smooth.

Tip: Strain through cheesecloth if watery.

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crust

1. Mix flour, sugar and salt. Rub in butter until crumbly.
2. Add cold water gradually, mixing until the dough comes together. 
3. Wrap in clingfilm and chill for 30 minutes.
4. Roll out and line a 23cm pie dish. Trim edges.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a bowl, whisk together pumpkin purée, eggs, sugar, spices and salt.
2. Gradually whisk in evaporated milk (or cream) until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble & Bake

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C.
2. Pour filling into pie crust.
3. Bake at 200°C for 15 minutes, then reduce to 175°C and bake for 40-50 minutes, until filling is set but slightly wobbly in the centre. 
4. Cool completely before slicing.

Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Pie

Serving Suggestions

Serve with freshly whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a dusting of cinnamon. For a rustic touch, garnish with sugared pecans or a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds. 

There is something magical about the aroma of apples, cinnamon and cloves simmering away on a cool day. Spiced apple tea is a soothing, naturally sweet drink that feels like autumn in a mug. It can be enjoyed both with and without caffeine. It is perfect for cosy evenings and can be dressed up for gatherings as a warm seasonal alternative to mulled wine.

Why You’ll Love Spiced Apple Tea

• Naturally Sweet & Fragrant: No need for heavy sweeteners.
• Warming & Comforting: The perfect antidote to chilly autumn weather.
• Simple to Make: Just a few ingredients simmered together.

Spiced Apple Tea: Two Ways 

Caffeine-Free Recipe

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 1l apple juice 
• 1 apple, sliced into rounds
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 3 whole cloves
• 2 slices fresh ginger 
• 1-2 tablespoons honey
• Lemon slices (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Combine the Base

1. Pour the apple juice into a saucepan.
2. Add sliced apple, cinnamon stick, cloves and ginger, if using.

Step 2: Simmer Gently

Bring to a low simmer over a medium heat. Let it gently bubble for 10-15 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse.

Step 3: Sweeten to Taste

Remove from heat and stir in honey if desired.

Step 4: Serve

Strain into mugs, add a slice of lemon, and serve warm.

Black Tea Version Recipe

Ingredients (Serves 4)

Instructions

Step 1: Combine the Base

1. Pour the water into a saucepan.
2. Add sliced apple, cinnamon stick, cloves and ginger, if using.

Step 2: Simmer Gently

Bring to a low simmer over a medium heat. Let it gently bubble for 10-15 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse.

Step 3: Bring the Tea

Add the tea bags and allow to brew for 3-5 minutes, depending on the desired strength.

Step 4: Prepare for Serving

Remove tea bags, strain and sweeten with honey, if desired.

Step 5: Serve

Serve hot with lemon slices.

Autumn Tea Essentials

Variations & Tips

• Chai Style Twist: Add a few cardamom pods and a star anise for a more complex, spiced flavour.
• For Gatherings: Keep the tea warm in a slow cooker or large stove pot for self-serve at autumn get-togethers.
• Iced Spiced Apple Tea: Let it cool, strain and serve over ice with fresh mint.

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From oven to table, the classic loaf that never disappoints.

There is something undeniably comforting about a warm, rustic farmhouse loaf, fresh from the oven. With its soft airy interior and golden crust, this bread feels like home in every bite. Whether you are a seasoned baker or trying your hand at homemade bread for the first time, this farmhouse loaf is approachable, forgiving and absolutely delicious.

Why We Love the Farmhouse Loaf

• Rustic Charm: It is irregular in shape and has a crusty exterior, making it perfect for casual meals.
• Versatile: Great for sandwiches, toast or simply with butter and jam.
• Satisfying to Bake: The process is simple yet the results feel artisanal.

For the Sponge (Optional, but adds flavour):

• 360ml warm water 
• 5g sugar 
• 7g active dry yeast
• 180g all-purpose flour

For the Dough:

• 450g all-purpose flour
• 9g salt
• 5g sugar
• 30ml olive oil or melted butter
• 300ml warm water
• 7g active dry yeast (if making without sponge)

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Recipe

Step 1: Make the Sponge (Optional)

1.  Mix warm water, sugar and yeast in a bowl.
2. Stir in flour until smooth.
3. Cover and leave to rise for 30-45 minutes until bubbly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

1. Mix flour, salt and sugar in a large bowl (add yeast too, if not using the sponge).
2. Add warm water, oil/butter and the sponge (if using).
3. Mix to form a sticky dough, then knead on a lightly floured surface for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: Let it Rise

Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let this rise for 1-2 hours until it has doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Loaf

1. Punch down the dough and shape into a round or oval loaf.
2. Place on a parchment-lined baking tray or in a loaf tin.

Step 5: Second Rise

• Cover and let rise for another 30-45 minutes. 
• Preheat the oven to 220°C. 

Step 6: Bake 

1. Optional: Score the top with a sharp knife.
2. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and hollow-sounding when tapped.
3. Cool on a wire rack before slicing.

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Baking Equipment Essentials

Tips for the Perfect Farmhouse Loaf 

• Use a baking stone or preheated tray. This helps to create a crisp crust. 
• Steam in the oven. Place a small oven-safe dish of water for the first 10 minutes to create steam – enhances crust texture.
• Don’t over flour. Keep the dough slightly sticky for a softer crumb.
• Experiment with flour types. Mixing some whole wheat or spelt flour gives extra flavour and rustic texture.
• Make ahead. This dough freezes well. Shape and freeze before second rise, then thaw and bake fresh. 

Serving Ideas:

• Crusty bread for soups or stews – perfect for autumn or winter comfort meals.

• Thick slices with butter and honey for breakfast.

• Rustic sandwiches with roasted vegetables or ham and cheese.

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