Apple Cider Moscow Mule Recipe

This Apple Cider Moscow Mule is about to become your go-to! It’s a cozy … Read more
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This Apple Cider Moscow Mule is about to become your go-to! It’s a cozy ... Read more

The post Apple Cider Moscow Mule Recipe appeared first on Sugar and Charm.

Ginger Carrot Sweet Potato Soup

This ginger carrot sweet potato soup is vibrant, spicy, and creamy. It is the perfect comfort food for the cooler months. The best part is that it is ready in 30 minutes. I love serving it with these incredible charred pineapple skewers. This soup is a great way to include more veggies in your diet,…

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The post Ginger Carrot Sweet Potato Soup appeared first on My Pure Plants.

This ginger carrot sweet potato soup is vibrant, spicy, and creamy. It is the perfect comfort food for the cooler months. The best part is that it is ready in 30 minutes. I love serving it with these incredible charred pineapple skewers.

2 black bowls of Yellow cream soup from above topped with charred pineapple wedges, drizzled with a white sauce and sprinkled with chopped green herbs, red flakes and sesame seeds. 2 spoons and the toppings in various bowls are around them.

This soup is a great way to include more veggies in your diet, and the ginger adds a lovely warmth to the dish. It is also a great make-ahead option as the flavors only get better the next day.

There is nothing better than a warm bowl of soup on a cold day. Some of my other favorite vegan soup recipes include this Hokkaido pumpkin cream soup, pumpkin sweet potato soup, and cauliflower soup.

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❤️ Why you’ll love it

I absolutely love the vibrant color of this ginger carrot sweet potato soup. The combination of sweet potatoes and carrots gives it a beautiful orange hue that makes it look just as delicious as it tastes.

The addition of ginger in this soup not only adds a lovely, warming flavor but also a subtle heat that is truly comforting, especially on a cold day. The use of simple ingredients such as garlic, onion, and a blend of spices like smoked paprika and chili flakes further enhances the flavor profile of this soup.

One of the best parts about this recipe is the grilled pineapple skewers. They add a delicious, smoky sweetness that pairs perfectly with the warmth of the soup. It’s a simple addition but it takes the soup to a whole new level.

Yellow cream soup topped in a black bowl with charred pineapple wedges, drizzled with a white sauce and sprinkled with chopped green herbs, red flakes and sesame seeds.

🧾 Key ingredients

This ginger carrot sweet potato soup recipe calls for simple, easy-to-find ingredients that you can get at any local grocery store. You may already have many of these items in your pantry or kitchen!

Sweet potatoes are the star of this dish. They add a beautiful, natural sweetness and a creamy texture when cooked and blended. They are a key ingredient, don’t skip them.

Carrots are another essential ingredient. They not only add to the sweetness of the soup but also a lovely, vibrant orange color that is so characteristic of this soup.

Onions and garlic are the flavor base of this soup. They add a depth of flavor that is essential in any good soup recipe.

Ginger is the ingredient that gives this soup its unique, warm, and slightly spicy flavor. Make sure you use fresh ginger, as it has a brightness that dried ginger just can’t replicate.

Veggie broth is the liquid that brings all the ingredients together. It is light and flavorful, allowing the sweetness of the vegetables and the spice of the ginger to shine through.

Paprika and hot chili powder add a kick to this soup. They are optional, but I highly recommend them if you like a bit of heat in your soup.

🛒 You can find detailed measurements for all ingredients in the printable version of the recipe card at the bottom of this post.

🥘 Equipment

For this ginger carrot sweet potato soup recipe, a good quality blender is an absolute must. It will turn your cooked vegetables and broth into a smooth, creamy soup. I recommend the use of a high-powered blender like a Vitamix for the best results.

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Preparing the ingredients

STEP 1
Start by washing, peeling, and dicing your sweet potatoes. Next, wash, peel, and slice your carrots.

STEP 2
Now, peel and chop your onion and garlic. After that, peel and finely chop your ginger. You can also use a simple lemon zester or a rotating ginger grater for this.

Making the ginger carrot sweet potato soup

STEP 1
Heat a stockpot or a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add some olive oil, then the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté these for about 2-3 minutes.

STEP 2
Next, add your diced sweet potatoes, carrots, smoked paprika powder, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

STEP 3
Now, add your vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the vegetables are soft and tender. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of your vegetable pieces.

4 photo collage of a red-white Dutch oven from above with chopped veggies in them to show how to make ginger carrot sweet potato soup.

STEP 4
Once the vegetables are cooked, it is time to turn your soup into a creamy consistency. Carefully transfer the soup to a blender and blend it until smooth. If your blender cannot handle hot liquids, allow the soup to cool slightly before blending.

Blender from above with a thick orange soup

STEP 5
Finally, season your soup with some chili flakes, if desired. Serve your ginger carrot sweet potato soup hot, garnished with some fresh herbs or a dollop of coconut cream.

💡 Expert tip

The key to this ginger carrot sweet potato soup is the preparation of your vegetables. Chop your sweet potatoes, carrots, onions, and garlic into small, even pieces. The smaller the vegetables, the quicker they will cook, saving you time in the kitchen.

🔄 Variations

If you prefer a smoother texture, consider straining the soup. This will remove any remaining pieces of ginger, making the soup even more velvety.

For a creamier version, add a can of coconut milk when the vegetables are tender. This will not only add a rich, creamy texture but also a hint of coconut flavor, which pairs beautifully with the ginger and carrots.

If you like a bit of heat in your food, consider adding a teaspoon of hot chili powder or some red pepper flakes when you add the other spices. This will give the soup a spicy kick without overpowering the sweetness of the carrots and sweet potatoes.

Charred pineapple wedges pierced with a skewer on a black grill pan

🥣 Serving ideas

This ginger carrot sweet potato soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.

One of my favorite ways to serve it is with a side of veggie balls. I particularly enjoy it with eggplant meatballs, chickpea meatballs, mushroom meatballs, or the famous IKEA veggie balls. The addition of veggie balls not only adds a much-needed extra protein but also turns the meal into a complete main course.

If you are looking for topping ideas, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from. I love serving this soup with a side of breadsticks. In addition, croutons, crackers, seeds, chopped nuts, or a trail mix can add a satisfying crunch.

Chopped herbs like thyme and cilantro, sautéed mushrooms in a soy sauce glaze, vegan bacon bits, or vegan parmesan can add a burst of flavor.

Yellow cream soup in 2 black bowls topped with charred pineapple wedges, drizzled with a white sauce and sprinkled with chopped green herbs, red flakes and sesame seeds.

❄️ Storing tips

Storing and reheating this ginger carrot sweet potato soup is easy, and the flavors even intensify over time, making it a perfect make-ahead dish.

To store the leftovers, allow it to cool completely first. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and it will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 4-5 days.

As for freezing, this soup is a freezer-friendly option. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just make sure to place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bags to maintain its quality.

You can reheat it on the stovetop when you are ready to have it. Just place the soup in a pot and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through. If you are reheating it from frozen, make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight first.

🤔 FAQs

Can I use a regular blender to blend the soup?

If you do not have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender. However, it is important to be very careful when blending hot liquids. Fill the blender only halfway to prevent hot soup from splashing out, and hold the lid down with a kitchen towel to prevent it from popping off. Alternatively, wait for the soup to cool down before blending. Always use caution when blending hot liquids.

What can I use instead of sweet potatoes?

If you do not have sweet potatoes on hand, you can use butternut squash as a substitute. Both of these vegetables have a similar sweet and earthy flavor, making them ideal for this soup. However, the cooking time may vary slightly, so be sure to check the squash for tenderness before blending.

Do I have to grill the pineapple?

Grilling the pineapple is optional, but it adds a delicious smoky flavor to the soup. If you do not have a grill pan or simply do not want to grill the pineapple, you can always serve the soup without it. The sweetness of the pineapple is a nice contrast to the spiciness of the soup, but the soup is still delicious without it.

THANK YOU so much for visiting our website. Please comment below if you have tried this recipe. We LOVE hearing from you! If you loved the recipe, please don’t forget to give us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐ RATING. We appreciate all of our readers.  

Different colorful vegetables drawn as icons on an orange background in a shape of a heart.

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Yellow cream soup in a black bowl topped with charred pineapple wedges, drizzled with a white sauce and sprinkled with chopped green herbs, red flakes and sesame seeds.
Print

Ginger Carrot Sweet Potato Soup

This ginger carrot sweet potato soup is vibrant, spicy, and creamy. It is the perfect comfort food for the cooler months. The best part is that it is ready in 30 minutes. I love serving it with these incredible charred pineapple skewers.
Course Soup
Cuisine Gluten-free, Vegan
Keyword ginger carrot sweet potato soup, pumpkin cream soup, Vegetable soup
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 6 people
Calories 121kcal

Ingredients

Ginger Carrot Sweet Potato Soup

Grilled Pineapple Skewers

  • ½ Pineapple

Instructions

Prepare the veggies

  • Wash, peel, and dice sweet potatoes.
  • Wash, peel, and slice carrots.
  • Peel and chop onion and garlic.
  • Peel and finely chop the ginger. You can also use a simple lemon zester, or a rotating ginger grater if you cook with fresh ginger a lot.

Cook the soup

  • Take a stockpot or a Dutch oven and heat it over medium heat.
  • Add olive oil and chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes.
  • Add diced sweet potatoes, carrots, and spices (smoked paprika powder, salt, and black pepper). Stir well. We usually add chili flakes only before serving so we can taste the soup without it first.
  • Finally, add the vegetable broth and cook until the vegetables are soft and tender. It will usually take 15-20 minutes, depending on how small or large you have chopped the veggies.

Blend it until creamy

  • When your soup is ready, the final step is to turn it into a cream soup. Take your blender and pour in the soup. If, according to the manufacturer of your blender, you should avoid hot liquid, wait a bit to cool it down before blending

Grilled pineapple skewer

  • Peel and cut pineapple into at least 2×2 inch (3-4 cm) cubes. It has to be large enough to pierce a skewer through.
  • Take a grill pan and heat it over low/medium heat. Brush the grill pan with oil and place the skewers on it.
  • Grill each side for 1-2 minutes. Pineapples can get charred quickly, so be mindful of the heat of the grill pan and the cooking time.

Video

Notes

  • Chop vegetables evenly and small – The smaller you cut the veggies, the shorter will be the cooking time.
  • Vitamix vs Regular Blender – You can certainly use a hand blender (aka immersion blender), a food processor, or a regular blender. They all make a creamy sauce. However, if you need this sauce to be extra smooth without a single little piece to find (just like in the pictures), we recommend using a high-powered blender like Vitamix.
  • Can I use ginger powder? – You can use grated fresh ginger or ginger powder, but you need to step up on the amount as fresh one has a stronger aroma. Read more about the difference between fresh and ground ginger here. The rule of thumb is 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger is equal to ⅛ teaspoon of ground ginger.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving without topping | Calories: 121kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Sodium: 551mg | Potassium: 460mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 20530IU | Vitamin C: 6mg | Calcium: 46mg | Iron: 1mg

The post Ginger Carrot Sweet Potato Soup appeared first on My Pure Plants.

Pear, Celery and Pecan Salad

This Pear, Celery and Pecan salad is the only pear salad recipe you need this holiday season. Easy to make, refreshing, and full of flavor!

The post Pear, Celery and Pecan Salad appeared first on Budget Bytes.

This Pear, Celery and Pecan Salad is the perfect healthy side dish for the holidays. With all the ultra-rich foods that typically grace our holiday tables, having a nice seasonal salad is a pro move! I drizzle ripe pears, fresh greens, and crunchy candied pecans with a spiced balsamic vinaigrette to create a slightly sweet but oh-so-refreshing pear salad. Top it off with a little parmesan, and I guarantee this will be your new favorite winter salad!

Overhead view of pear celery pecan salad in a serving bowl.

I feel confident saying you can trust me when it comes to salads. (After all, I opened Nashville’s first raw plant-based restaurant back in 2015!)

This winter pear salad takes seasonal ingredients and makes them shine in the best way possible. The pears are juicy and sweet, while the celery is refreshingly crunchy, and the pecans add a delicious nutty flavor. Then, the vinaigrette, made with balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, olive oil, and warming spices, ties every element together perfectly. This is one salad that won’t be just an afterthought on your holiday menu this year! 😉

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this pear, celery and pecan salad recipe:

  • Pears: I like Bartlett and Anjou pears (I also use these varieties in my pear galette recipe!), but any type of pear will work. Choose pears that are ripe but still firm.
  • Celery: Use fresh, crisp celery and dice it finely for a nice crunch in each bite.
  • Red Onion: Adds a mild sharpness and some extra color to the salad. I recommend slicing it into matchsticks (a technique known as a julienne cut) for the best texture and flavor.
  • Lemon Juice: Coat your sliced pears in lemon juice to stop them from browning too quickly.
  • Mixed Greens: Any leafy salad will work, so choose what is readily available and what you like. I buy a pre-mixed bag of mixed greens whenever I make this salad.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Opt for freshly grated parmesan for maximum flavor. You can leave this out if you’re dairy-free or vegan—it’s just as delicious without it!
  • Candied Pecans: I followed Beth’s candied pecans recipe but didn’t use the egg whites to save time and money. This also means my candied pecans are totally vegan. Feel free to purchase pre-made if you’re short on time.
  • Balsamic Vinegar & Olive Oil: This is the base of the spiced vinaigrette. We’re working on a budget here, so you don’t need to use the best balsamic or olive oil. A mid-range option works just fine!
  • Spices & Seasonings: I use a blend of warming, fall/winter-inspired spices like allspice, cinnamon, ginger, salt, and pepper. They give this pear and pecan salad the best seasonal flavor.
  • Maple Syrup: Just a touch of maple syrup gives this salad a subtle sweetness without being overly sugary.
  • Garlic: Gives the dressing an extra boost of flavor and nutrients. I mince it finely before adding it to the dressing.

What Else Can I Add?

Whenever I can reduce food waste and add extra nutrients to a dish, I do it! Here are some optional topping ideas for this pear pecan salad:

Top Tip!

The dressing in this recipe is known as a ‘temporary emulsion,’ so the olive oil and balsamic vinegar will eventually separate. I recommend slowly streaming in the olive oil as you whisk or using a blender (pour in the oil slowly as the machine runs) when making the spiced vinaigrette. I’d also wait until just before serving to toss the salad with the dressing. If your dressing does separate, just give it a good shake or whisk before using.

Storage Instructions

This salad with pears is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days in a pinch. However, the pears will soften and brown the longer it’s stored. If possible, I’d wait to dress the salad and slice the pears until just before serving. Tossing the pears in a little lemon juice will help slow the browning, but they will still brown!

When stored separately, the spiced vinaigrette will be good for up to 3-4 days (just give it a good shake or whisk before using). The homemade candied pecans will last for up to a week in an airtight container at room temperature. As for the mixed greens, celery, and red onion, it depends on how fresh they were to begin with! Around 3-5 days is a good estimate for peak freshness, but always use your best judgment.

Overhead view of pear celery pecan salad on a black plate.
Overhead view of pear celery pecan salad in a serving bowl.
Print

Pear, Celery and Candied Pecans Salad Recipe

This Pear, Celery and Pecan salad is the only pear salad recipe you need this holiday season. Easy to make, refreshing, and full of flavor!
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Total Cost ($12.22 recipe / $2.44 serving)
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings 5 salads (about 2 cups each)
Calories 375kcal

Ingredients

Salad Ingredients

  • ½ cup candied pecans, chopped* $1.67
  • 4 stalks celery, diced $0.20
  • ½ red onion, julienned (finely sliced) $0.54
  • 2 pears, sliced thin $2.64
  • 1 Tbsp lemon juice $0.03
  • 1 6 oz bag mixed greens $2.73
  • 5 Tbsp shredded Parmesan $1.35

Spiced Balsamic Vinaigrette Ingredients

  • ½ tsp allspice $0.08
  • 1 tsp cinnamon $0.08
  • ½ tsp salt $0.01
  • ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper $0.01
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced $0.06
  • ¼ tsp ground ginger $0.06
  • 3 Tbsp maple syrup $0.72
  • ¼ cup balsamic vinegar $0.49
  • ½ cup olive oil $1.55

Instructions

  • Chop candied pecans, dice celery and julienne (finely slice) red onion. Slice pears and toss the pear slices in lemon juice to prevent browning. Transfer all to a covered bowl and refrigerate.
  • Prepare the salad dressing by whisking allspice, cinnamon, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, ginger, maple syrup, and balsamic vinegar together. Stream in the olive oil in at the end to make a temporary emulsion. You can also use a blender, slowly streaming the oil in while the blades are running.
  • Add mixed greens to a bowl with the previously prepared chopped candied pecans, diced celery, sliced red onion, and sliced pear. Drizzle the cinnamon vinaigrette on top just before serving.
  • Toss to coat the salad with the vinaigrette.
  • Top with the shredded parmesan and serve!

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Notes

* I adapted Beth’s Candied Pecans recipe to omit egg whites which ended up saving a little money and extra time in the oven. Because there’s no egg, there’s no need to bake these in the oven unless you want them extra toasty. In which case, 10 minutes at 350 will do the trick.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving (about 2 cups) | Calories: 375kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 28g | Sodium: 399mg | Fiber: 4g
Overhead close up of pear celery and pecan salad in a bowl with parmesan.

how to make Pear, Celery and Pecan Salad – step by step photos

Diced candied pecans, celery, red onion, and pears on a wooden chopping board.

Chop ½ cup candied pecans, dice 4 stalks celery and julienne (finely slice) ½ red onion. Slice 2 pears and toss the pear slices in 1 Tbsp lemon juice to prevent browning. Transfer all to a covered bowl and refrigerate.

Spiced vinaigrette being whisked in a bowl with olive oil being poured in.

Prepare the salad dressing by whisking ½ tsp allspice, 1 tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, 2 cloves minced garlic, ¼ tsp ground ginger, 3 Tbsp maple syrup, and ¼ cup balsamic vinegar together. Stream in ½ cup olive oil in at the end to make a temporary emulsion. You can also use a blender, slowly streaming the oil in while the blades are running.

Pear, celery, and pecans salad in a bowl with dressing being poured on top.

Add a 6 oz bag mixed greens to a bowl with the previously prepared chopped candied pecans, diced celery, sliced red onion, and sliced pear. Drizzle the cinnamon vinaigrette on top just before serving.

Pear, celery and pecan salad being tossed in a bowl.

Toss to coat the salad with the vinaigrette.

Pear, celery and pecan salad topped with Parmesan in a bowl.

Top with 5 Tbsp shredded parmesan and serve!

Overhead view of pear celery pecan salad in a serving bowl.

With tender pears, crisp celery, and crunchy candied pecans, this easy pear salad recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

The post Pear, Celery and Pecan Salad appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Apple Crumble

This easy Apple Crumble recipe is a classic for a reason! Full of warmly spiced, caramelized apples and a crunchy, buttery crumble topping.

The post Apple Crumble appeared first on Budget Bytes.

There’s something nostalgic about apple desserts (and there are so many to choose from!), but let me tell you, this recipe for Apple Crumble is the easiest of them all! You can whip it up in a flash and reserve the rest of your time for snuggling on the couch. Crisp, juicy sliced apples are mixed with brown sugar, cinnamon, and ginger and baked under a buttery crumble topping. It’s the perfect autumn dessert to warm your heart and fill your belly on a budget!

Overhead view of apple crumble on a plate with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

When I was growing up, one of our favorite family traditions was apple picking! My mom would load the whole family into the car, and we would hit the road to Tougas Family Farm (a huge pick-your-own farm in Northborough, MA about an hour west of Boston, with tons of fun things for kids to do). And I’m telling you, no apple tastes as good as one you’ve picked yourself!

You might have noticed my cozy fall recipe posts always mention my family, particularly my mom. My mom is a proud New Englander, and autumn is when she really comes alive! I had the best childhood, and I reflect on it the most during the fall. So, I highly recommend you Google search “pick-your-own apples” in your area, find a farm, and go for it! Then, you have no excuse not to try this easy apple crumble recipe. 😉

What Is Apple Crumble?

Apple crumble is a classic British dessert with layers of sliced apples and a crumble topping made from flour, sugar, and butter. It has all the comforting flavors of apple pie but with much less effort! I make my crumble filling with Granny Smith apples, lemon juice, cornstarch, brown sugar, cinnamon, and ground ginger to create a caramelized and warmly spiced bottom layer. Whether you serve it with vanilla ice cream, caramel sauce, or whipped cream, just know you’re in for a treat.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe for apple crumble:

  • Salted Butter: Combines with the flour and sugar to create the crumble topping. Use salted butter to balance the sweetness from the sugar, and make sure it’s chilled! Room-temperature butter won’t create the same crumbly texture.
  • All-Purpose Flour: For making the topping.
  • Light Brown Sugar: Adds a rich molasses flavor to the topping and apple filling.
  • Salt: Just a pinch for flavor.
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice or Apple Pie Spice: You can use either spice blend to flavor the topping. Pumpkin pie spice is made from cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves. Apple pie spice is typically a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice but may also include ginger and/or cardamom. Pick whichever sounds best to you!
  • Granny Smith Apples: I like using Granny Smith apples in my baking because their natural tartness offsets the overpowering sweetness of the sugar. If you don’t usually bake with green apples, give it a try! Be sure to wash them if you’re keeping the skin on.
  • Cornstarch: Thickens the filling and helps create a syrupy texture.
  • Ground Cinnamon & Ginger Powder: You don’t need much (just a teaspoon of each), but they add some fall flavor to the apples.
  • Lemon Juice: Brightens up the filling and keeps the apples from browning.

Can I Use A Different Type of Apple?

I love how Granny Smith apples taste in apple crumble. They’re tart, firm, and hold up well during baking. I’ve also tailored the other ingredients in this recipe to complement their natural flavor. However, if you prefer a sweeter apple or have a different type on hand, feel free to use it! I recommend using a crisp, firm apple that will hold its shape during baking. Some other popular baking apples include Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, and Braeburn. I recently tried a “Rosalee” apple for the first time this fall (while apple picking in Massachusetts, of course!) and it was one of the best things I’ve ever tasted—another great varietal!

Apple Crumble vs Apple Crisp

Apple crisp and crumble both feature baked apples topped with a crumbly buttery topping. However, apple crisp usually contains oats in the topping, while crumble traditionally doesn’t (although there are many variations of both nowadays!). Other than that, the preparation and baking processes are pretty much the same. They’re both delicious and perfect for fall!

Tips for the Best Crumble Topping

  1. Your butter has to be COLD. I recommend cutting it into small cubes and keeping it in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
  2. You want small clumps of butter, sugar, and flour throughout the topping, not a uniform mixture. My step-by-step photos below show what it should look like. Overmixing can create a denser, less crumbly topping.
  3. I always flash-freeze the unbaked crumble topping for 10 minutes before adding it to the apples. This is another trick to make sure the topping stays crumbly and holds its shape. The crumble bakes up light and crisp instead of sinking into the apples.
  4. I’ve kept this recipe traditional with simple, budget-friendly ingredients. However, for a fun twist, you could try adding nuts to your apple crumble topping! Pecans, sliced almonds, or chopped walnuts would all make great additions.

Storage Instructions

Once your crumble has cooled, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap/foil or transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. Let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, and reheat in the oven to re-crisp the topping before serving. The microwave also works if you don’t mind a slightly softer topping.

Overhead view of apple crumble in a rectangular baking dish.
Overhead view of apple crumble on a plate with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Print

Apple Crumble Recipe

This easy Apple Crumble recipe is a classic for a reason! Full of warmly spiced, caramelized apples and a crunchy, buttery crumble topping.
Course Dessert
Cuisine English
Total Cost ($7.42 recipe / $0.61 serving)
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings 12 servings (about ½ a cup each)
Calories 170kcal

Ingredients

Crumble Topping

  • 6 ½ Tbsp salted butter, chilled and diced (½ Tbsp reserved to butter your dish) $0.97
  • cup all-purpose flour $0.08
  • cup light brown sugar $0.18
  • ¼ tsp salt $0.01
  • 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice or apple pie spice $0.19

Filling

  • 5 medium granny smith apples, cored (about 2 lbs) $5.00
  • cup packed light brown sugar $0.18
  • 1 Tbsp cornstarch $0.05
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon $0.16
  • 1 tsp ginger powder $0.45
  • tsp salt $0.01
  • 2 Tbsp lemon juice $0.14

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350° F and butter a baking dish (my dish was 8×10”), set aside for now. Add salted butter, all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, salt, and pumpkin pie spice/apple pie spice to a medium size mixing bowl.
  • Firmly mix crumble ingredients together by hand, breaking it up into little pieces, and freeze for 10 minutes.
  • Peel most of your apples (I left the skin on a few apples because I think it’s a nice little color pop) and slice into thin 1/8” slices.
  • Place your sliced apples in a mixing bowl and add light brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, ginger powder, salt, and lemon juice.
  • Toss filling ingredients together and pat down into the baking dish. Then, add frozen crumble on top.
  • Bake for 40-45 min or once the crumble on top turns golden brown.

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 170kcal | Carbohydrates: 29g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 6g | Sodium: 126mg | Fiber: 2g
Overhead view of apple crumble in a rectangular baking dish with a portion missing.

how to make Apple Crumble – step by step photos

Cubed butter, flour, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice in a mixing bowl.

Preheat oven to 350° F and butter a baking dish with ½ Tbsp salted butter (my dish was 8×10”), set aside for now. Add 6 Tbsp salted butter, ⅔ cup all-purpose flour, ⅓ cup light brown sugar, ¼ tsp salt, and 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice/apple pie spice to a mixing bowl.

Apple crumble topping in a mixing bowl.

Firmly mix crumble ingredients together by hand, breaking it up into little pieces, and freeze for 10 minutes.

Sliced granny smith apples in a mixing bowl.

Peel most of your 5 medium granny smith apples (I left the skin on a few apples because I think it’s a nice little color pop) and slice into thin 1/8” slices.

Sliced granny smith apples in a mixing bowl with sugar, cornstarch, and cinnamon.

Place your sliced apples in a mixing bowl and add ⅓ cup light brown sugar, 1 Tbsp cornstarch, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1 tsp ginger powder, ⅛ tsp salt, and 2 Tbsp lemon juice.

Apple crumble ingredients assembled in a rectangular baking dish.

Toss filling ingredients together and pat down into the baking dish. Then, add frozen crumble on top.

Baked apple crumble in a rectangular baking dish.

Bake for 40-45 min or once the crumble on top turns golden brown.

Overhead view of apple crumble and a scoop of vanilla ice cream on a plate with a fork taking some.

This homemade apple crumble recipe has the perfect ratio of crumble to apple filling, and it couldn’t be easier to make!

The post Apple Crumble appeared first on Budget Bytes.

Pear Galette

This easy Pear Galette is packed with warmly spiced pears and craisins, then wrapped in a flaky crust and served with homemade caramel sauce!

The post Pear Galette appeared first on Budget Bytes.

As we say goodbye to peaches in the summertime, I stay positive and look forward to the next season… pear season! Pears are one of my favorite fall fruits, and this perfectly fall-festive Pear Galette with caramel sauce is a delicious way to showcase them. This free-form pie is one of the easiest desserts you’ll EVER make, and the filling is deliciously simple. Spiced pears and tangy dried cranberries are wrapped in a flaky, buttery crust to create the best beginner-friendly dessert on a budget!

Overhead view of a pear galette with a slice cut out.

What is a Galette?

Originating from France, a galette is the answer to all your pie needs this busy holiday season! It’s essentially a rustic, free-form pie made with a single crust and folded-up edges over a simple filling. They differ from traditional pies because you don’t bake them in a pie pan (a baking tray is all you need!), and they’re often quicker to make. They also don’t have a top crust, so there’s no messing around with latticework or fancy pastry techniques. All you need is a pre-made pie crust and your filling! I use sliced pears, dried cranberries, cinnamon, ground ginger, sugar, and lemon juice for a sweet-tart pear galette perfect for fall.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this simple pear galette recipe:

  • Pears: You can use any type of pear you like. I used a green Bartlett pear and a red Anjou pear for beautiful color contrast in my filling. I recommend choosing a pear that feels firm but not too hard (it should give a little when you press on it).
  • Granulated Sugar & Light Brown Sugar: Mix these sugars with lemon juice and spices to create a sweet and slightly tangy marinade.
  • Lemon Juice: Stops the pears from browning and adds a bright flavor to the filling.
  • Spices: Ground cinnamon and ginger add a warm, fall flavor.
  • Salt: Just a pinch for flavor.
  • Dried Cranberries: These add a chewy texture and tart flavor to every bite. They might be labeled “craisins” in your local grocery store.
  • Pre-Made Pie Dough: This is a shortcut I’m always willing to take when I’ve got a lot going on around the holidays! I use a pre-made pie crust to save myself time and effort. They often come in packs of two, so you could freeze the other and make our peach galette come summertime. For homemade, try our pie crust recipe.
  • Milk: Brush a little milk over your pie crust to help it brown in the oven.
  • Turbinado Sugar: A coarse, raw sugar that adds a crunchy texture and sweet flavor to the crust. Coconut sugar, demerara sugar, or brown sugar would all differ slightly, but would still work if you can’t find turbinado sugar.
  • Caramel Sauce: I use salted butter, room temperature heavy cream, vanilla extract, and brown sugar to make an easy caramel sauce for serving!

Variations to try

This easy pear galette recipe is just that—easy! But don’t let it’s simplicity fool you. The flavors and textures in this dessert are anything but basic. However, if you want to use this recipe as a base and switch up the flavor, here are some variations I think you’ll love:

  • Swap out one of the pears for an apple (make sure it’s sliced thin).
  • Mix in a handful of berries, such as blackberries or blueberries—like in our lemon blueberry cream cheese galette!
  • Sprinkle some slivered almonds or diced pecans.
  • Try raisins or dried cherries in place of the craisins.
  • Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the top.
  • Use different spices like cardamom, allspice or nutmeg instead of cinnamon/ginger.

What About the Leftover Spiced Pear Juice?

If you want to do something creative with any leftover pear juice after step 8, you can make a cocktail with it or briefly simmer it on the stovetop to make a pear simple syrup. Delicious and no-waste—win-win!

Serving Suggestions

I took our caramel sauce recipe and reduced the heavy cream used ever so slightly to make it thicker for this pear galette. Drizzle it over the top of the warm slices and enjoy every last bite! A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream would take this elegant dessert to the next level!

Storing Leftovers

This homemade pear galette recipe is best served fresh, but it’ll keep in the fridge for 2-3 days if covered with foil or plastic wrap. Just note the crust may lose some of its crispness.

You can also try freezing individual slices for up to 3 months, but let them thaw completely before serving. And like any fresh fruit dessert, the texture may be slightly softer after being frozen. I’d reheat slices in the oven at about 350F for a few minutes until warmed through.

Overhead view of a pear galette.
Overhead view of a pear galette with a slice cut out.
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Pear Galette Recipe

This easy Pear Galette is packed with warmly spiced pears and craisins, then wrapped in a flaky crust and served with homemade caramel sauce!
Course Dessert
Cuisine French
Total Cost ($6.24 recipe / $0.78 serving)
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 8 slices
Calories 288kcal

Ingredients

Pear Galette Ingredients

  • 2 pears, cored and quartered* $2.64
  • 2 Tbsp granulated sugar $0.08
  • 2 Tbsp brown sugar $0.10
  • 2 tsp lemon juice $0.02
  • ½ tsp cinnamon $0.04
  • ½ tsp ground ginger $0.12
  • pinch of salt $0.01
  • 1 pre-made pie dough $1.38
  • 1 Tbsp dried cranberries or ''craisins'' $0.13
  • 1 Tbsp milk, for the crust $0.01
  • 1 Tbsp turbinado sugar, for the crust $0.06

Caramel Sauce Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 450F. Slice pears ¼ inch thin.**
  • In a medium mixing bowl, stir together sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, ground ginger, and salt.
  • Pour the mixture over sliced pears and set aside.
  • Unroll pie dough on a sheet of parchment paper and fill the crust with sliced pears in one single layer, leaving 1-2 inches of space around the edge. (I had some extra pear slices, so I fanned them out on top, making a small second layer.)
  • Then, add craisins to the leftover pear juice to rehydrate. Set aside while you make the caramel sauce.
  • In a small saucepan, melt salted butter over medium-low heat. Then, add brown sugar and whisk together until a smooth caramel forms.
  • Remove caramel from heat and stream in room temperature heavy cream and vanilla, whisking until smooth.
  • Set aside caramel sauce to thicken. Meanwhile, brush some of the leftover juice from the soaking cranberries over the pears.
  • Dot the pears with hydrated cranberries.
  • Gently fold the sides of dough over the edges of the pears and pinch the dough to form a rustic texture and enclose your pear filling inside the galette.
  • Brush the crust with milk.
  • Sprinkle turbinado sugar over the crust and on top of your galette.
  • Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown and the pears begin to wilt.***

See how we calculate recipe costs here.

Notes

*I chose a red Anjou pear and a green bartlett pear. Any variety of pear will work for this galette. You can choose to peel your pears or leave the skin on. I left the skin on.
**I sliced my quartered pears, keeping them organized and together so they would be easier to fan out when filling my tart for aesthetic reasons.
***The pears will not turn to mush but should be tender and maintain their signature texture. If you find your crust is beginning to burn, you can lightly place a piece of tinfoil on top of your galette to help dodge the heat. This is a very flat “pie alternative” and doesn’t take as long to cook.

Nutrition

Serving: 1slice | Calories: 288kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 14g | Sodium: 141mg | Fiber: 2g
A slice of pear galette on a white plate, drizzled with caramel sauce.

how to make Pear Galette – step by step photos

A knife slicing pears on a wooden chopping board.

Preheat oven to 450F. Slice 2 cored and quartered pears ¼ inch thin.

Lemon juice, brown sugar, and spices in a mixing bowl.

In a medium mixing bowl, stir together 2 Tbsp sugar, 2 Tbsp brown sugar, 2 tsp lemon juice, ½ tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp ground ginger, and a pinch of salt.

Spice mixture being poured over sliced pears in a mixing bowl.

Pour the mixture over sliced pears and set aside.

Sliced pears arranged in a fan style on an unbaked pre-made pie crust.

Unroll 1 pre-made pie dough on a sheet of parchment paper and fill the crust with sliced pears in one single layer, leaving 1-2 inches of space around the edge. (I had some extra pear slices, so I fanned them out on top, making a small second layer.)

Dried cranberries soaking in a spiced lemon juice mixture in a mixing bowll.

Then, add 1 Tbsp craisins to the leftover pear juice to rehydrate. Set aside while you make the caramel sauce.

Brown sugar and melted butter in a sauce pan to make caramel sauce.

In a small saucepan, melt ¼ cup salted butter over medium-low heat. Then, add ½ cup brown sugar and whisk together until a smooth caramel forms.

Heavy cream being whisked into melted butter and brown sugar to make caramel sauce.

Remove caramel from heat and stream in ¼ cup room temperature heavy cream and ½ tsp vanilla, whisking until smooth.

A brush glazing slices pears on a unbaked pre-made pie crust.

Set aside caramel sauce to thicken. Meanwhile, brush some of the leftover juice from the soaking cranberries over the pears.

Sliced pears and dried cranberries on a unbaked pre-made pie crust for pear galette.

Dot the pears with hydrated cranberries.

Hands folding and crimping the edges of a pear galette before baking.

Gently fold the sides of dough over the edges of the pears and pinch the dough to form a rustic texture and enclose your pear filling inside the galette.

An unbaked pear galette being brushed with milk.

Brush the crust with 1 Tbsp milk.

An unbaked pear galette.

Sprinkle 1 Tbsp turbinado sugar over the crust and on top of your galette.

Freshly baked pear galette on a parchment lined baking sheet.

Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the crust turns golden brown and the pears begin to wilt.***

Overhead view of a pear galette with a slice cut out.

This easy dessert recipe is one to keep in your back pocket for those last-minute fall gatherings! It’s quick, delicious, and sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

The post Pear Galette appeared first on Budget Bytes.

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Even better? There’s minimal chopping and it’s ready in about 30 minutes. Let’s make soup!

This pumpkin soup is about as simple + flavorful as it gets! Chop onion, garlic, and ginger, then add a few everyday spices, open a few cans, and let it simmer.

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Pumpkin Cookies

Everyone goes crazy for this pumpkin cookies recipe! They come out ultra soft, chewy, and cozy-spiced, drizzled with a sweet…

Everyone goes crazy for this pumpkin cookies recipe! They come out ultra soft, chewy, and cozy-spiced, drizzled with a sweet and simple icing. In our opinion, it’s the perfect fall cookie!

Pumpkin cookies with powdered sugar icing

When it comes to favorite pumpkin recipes, here’s one at the very top for us: these chewy iced pumpkin cookies! Whenever we make these for someone, they rave (recently, our son’s teacher couldn’t say enough about them).

These sweet morsels are lusciously pillowy and chewy, scented with a burst of fall spices and a hint of molasses. The exterior has a subtle sugar crunch and a drizzle of simple sweet icing. Even better, the soft texture holds up for days. They really are the best: great for fall desserts, Halloween, Thanksgiving and everything in between.

Ingredients in this pumpkin cookies recipe

We’re not huge fans of cakey pumpkin cookies. You know, the kind that are basically like little round pumpkin cakes? To us they’re not really cookies, more like cake bites. So with this recipe, we created pumpkin cookies that are soft and chewy, with the texture of a molasses ginger cookie but with pumpkin and pumpkin spices. The key here? Don’t use too much pumpkin puree: it adds lots of moisture which leads to cakey cookies. Here are the ingredients you’ll need for this pumpkin cookie recipe:

  • Pumpkin puree: Too much pumpkin makes for cakey cookies. This recipe uses just enough pumpkin.
  • Unsalted butter: Heat the butter until it starts to turn brown and smells nutty, then immediately remove from the heat. Using brown butter adds a deep nuance in flavor (and smells incredible).
  • Egg yolk and molasses: Egg yolk and a bit of molasses helps to make the perfect chewy texture.
  • All-purpose flour and granulated sugar: We don’t recommend using substitutes in this recipe because it significantly alters the texture.
  • Cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, baking soda, vanilla extract and salt: These baking ingredients bring together the spiced pumpkin flavor.
Pumpkin Cookies on baking rack

Tips for baking pumpkin cookies

Cookies can be temperamental, and pumpkin cookies are no different. It’s challenging to get cookies that look perfectly identical. Here are a few tips for upping your baking game:

  • Use a cookie scoop. If you have a 1 ½ tablespoon cookie scoop, it’s helpful for portioning the dough perfectly.
  • Bake the trays separately. This is one of our biggest baking tips: bake only one tray of cookies at a time! This ensures the best consistency between the trays because the oven heat is the same for each. (This is even true with new ranges like ours.)
  • Refrigerate the dough in between baking the trays. It’s not required, but it also yields the most consistency. When you don’t chill in between baking, the cookies have slightly more crinkles—while it looks nice, it’s appears slightly different from the first batch. If you’d like you can chill the dough longer than it takes to bake the first tray, but let it come to roughly room temperature before making the balls.

Tip for pumpkin puree brands

There’s a fair amount of variation between pumpkin puree brands. Some are rather dry, and others are very wet.

We’ve found from experimentation that Libby brand of canned pumpkin has the best dry texture for baking. We’re not affiliated with the brand; we’ve just noticed that other brands can be very wet. If you have access to this brand, we’ve found it yields the most consistent results.

Iced Pumpkin Cookies

Storing leftovers

These pumpkin cookies hold up well over time. This is a must for cookies in our opinion, since you’re making them in such a big batch. Here’s what to note about storing these cookies:

  • Store in a sealed container at room temperature for 1 week. The texture holds up well: no need to add anything to the container.
  • Store refrigerated for 2 weeks. Allow to come to room temperature before serving.
  • Store frozen for up to 3 months. If you can, freeze the cookies un-iced: it doesn’t hold up as well frozen.
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Pumpkin cookies

Iced Pumpkin Cookies


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

5 from 1 review

  • Author: Sonja Overhiser
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 26 cookies
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Description

Everyone goes crazy for this pumpkin cookies recipe! They come out ultra soft, chewy, and cozy-spiced, drizzled with a sweet and simple icing. In our opinion, it’s the perfect fall cookie!


Ingredients

For the cookies

  • 10 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (280 g)
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 tablespoon cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons ground ginger
  • 1 teaspoon ground allspice
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 cup granulated sugar, plus more for rolling
  • 1 egg yolk
  • 1 tablespoon molasses
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup pumpkin puree (Libby brand is most consistent for baked goods*)

For the glaze (or Maple Glaze)

  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • ½ tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
  2. Place the butter (sliced into pieces) in a skillet over medium heat. Heat for about 5 minutes until it melts, turns foamy, and then becomes golden brown in color and smells nutty. Immediately remove from the heat and transfer to a bowl. Transfer to the freezer for 15 minutes to cool (you can also do this in advance and cool it to room temperature).
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, nutmeg, and salt.
  4. Add the cooled browned butter to the bowl of a stand mixer. Add the sugar and mix on High speed for 1 minute, until light and fluffy. Add the egg yolk, molasses and vanilla extract, and beat on High speed for 1 minute. Add the pumpkin puree and mix just until incorporated, scraping once. Pour in the bowl of dry ingredients and mix on Low speed until just combined.
  5. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place ¼ cup granulated sugar on a plate. Roll the dough in 1 ½ tablespoon balls, using a cookie scoop if possible, then roll the ball into the plate of sugar. Repeat for a tray of 12 cookies. Add a single tray to the oven and bake 12 to 13 minutes, until puffed. Chill the remaining dough while baking (recommended but not required; without it the second batch comes out with slightly more crinkles**). Allow to cool on the pan 5 minutes before removing to a baking rack.
  6. Repeat for the second batch of cookies (baking the trays separately yields more even results).
  7. Allow the cookies to cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes. For the glaze, mix the powdered sugar, milk and melted butter in a small bowl until a thick icing forms (add slightly more sugar if it’s too runny or a hint more milk if too thick). Use a fork to drizzle the icing over the cookies. Wait for about 20 minutes for the icing to dry before serving.
  8. Store at room temperature for about 1 week, refrigerated for 2 weeks (bring to room temperature before serving), or frozen for 3 months (un-iced cookies freeze best).

Notes

*Don’t use pumpkin pie filling! Canned pumpkin can vary in moisture level, and too much moisture makes cakey pumpkin cookies. We’ve found Libby brand canned pumpkin has the best dry texture for baking, while other brands can have more moisture than others.

**You can also chill the dough longer than it takes to bake the first tray, but let it come to roughly room temperature before making the balls. (Baking the dough right from chilled yields different results.)

Variation: Try this Maple Glaze for topping the cookies. 

  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baked
  • Cuisine: Fall
  • Diet: Vegetarian

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