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Spiced Apple Cider Charlotte Cake #AppleWeek

September 28, 2018

This semi-homemade Spiced Apple Cider Charlotte Cake with Cinnamon Vanilla Bean Frosting and Apple Cider Cinnamon Apples is a Fall treat that is sure to impress. All the components can be made ahead of time for an easy weeknight dessert or Autumn holiday.

This post is sponsored in conjunction with AppleWeek. All opinions are mine alone.

Spiced Apple Cider Charlotte Cake from LoveandConfections.com #AppleWeek #sponsored

While I love making cakes from scratch, I do use boxed mixes with a twist often. I added apple cider in place of some of the water and the cake turned out very moist and delicious. I would even try it next time replacing all the water with cider – I love cider that much.

Up until last year, I have only had cider from the grocery store. Granted it still tastes good, but there is nothing like fresh pressed cider. While in Vermont last year, Mr. L&C and I were able to visit a cider mill and have fresh cider, warm cider donuts and go apple picking. I was like a kid in a candy store. Apple picking was my favorite part, since I had never done it before. I cannot wait to plan a trip and take Little L&C to go get some apples. It probably won’t be as far as Vermont though.

The Cinnamon Buttercream is my new favorite. I used it on my Pumpkin Pecan Pie Layer Cake last week for #PumpkinWeek. I have a few recipe ideas for more fall treats using this frosting too! It pairs perfectly with apples, pumpkin, pecans – all the flavors of the season!

Apple Cider Cinnamon Apples was a last minute delicious decision. I originally posted these apples a few years ago on a #BrunchWeek post for Oatmeal Walnut Waffles with Fried Apples. I didn’t have any orange juice or zest, so I used some apple cider instead. It has a great flavor and any leftover fried apples are great for breakfast on top of oatmeal, or dessert on top of ice cream!

Thank you Nordic Ware for the Charlotte Cake Pan. Head to the Nordic Ware Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest for more recipe ideas!

Spiced Apple Cider Charlotte Cake

By Love and Confections

Ingredients

1 box Spice Cake Mix, I used Duncan Hines
3 large eggs, room temperature
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup apple cider
1/2 cup water
1/3 recipe Cinnamon Vanilla Bean Frosting
Apple Cider Cinnamon Apples

Instructions

*Note* You will only be using half of the batter. Prepare a cupcake tin with liners or cake pan with parchment for remaining batter.
Heat oven to 350F. Prepare Charlotte Cake Pan with baking spray or shortening and flour.
Combine ingredients according to package directions. Use half of the batter in the Charlotte Pan. Bake according to package directions, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in pan for 10 minutes then invert onto rack to cool completely.
Pipe Cinnamon Vanilla Bean Frosting onto top of cake and top with Apple Cider Cinnamon Apples

Apple Cider Cinnamon Apples

By Love and Confections

Ingredients

3 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons Dixie Crystals Light Brown Sugar
2 tablespoons Dixie Crystals Extra Fine Granulated Sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon apple cider
2 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored and diced

Instructions

In a medium pot on medium heat, add butter, brown sugar and granulated sugar. Stir until the sugars and butter start to melt. Add in salt, cinnamon, vanilla and cider, and stir to combine
Add in apples, stirring occasionally, and cook until tender, about 5-8 minutes.

Here are a few items I used in this recipe:

Friday Recipes:

Apple, Bacon and Caramelized Onion Pizza by Strawberry Blondie Kitchen
Apple Bakewell Tart by Books n’ Cooks
Apple Cider Pulled Pork with Apple Slaw by Simple and Savory
Apple Cinnamon Baklava by Kate’s Recipe Box
Apple Cream Pie with Oatmeal Crust by Savory Moments
Easy Apple Crisp Pie with Oats by The Anthony Kitchen
Apple Gingerbread Cakelets by The Monday Box
Apple Oatmeal Muffins by House of Nash Eats
Apple Pie Crepes by The Bitter Side of Sweet
Apple Pie Moonshine by Cookaholic Wife
Apple Snack Cake by Caroline’s Cooking
Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash by Palatable Pastime
Baked Apple Donuts with Oatmeal Crumble Topping by Girl Abroad
Baked Cinnamon Apple Doughnuts by Jonesin’ For Taste
Braised Chicken with Apples by A Day in the Life on the Farm
Buttery Apple Streusel Thumbprint Cookies by Faith, Hope, Love & Luck
Caramel Apple Stuffed Waffles by 4 Sons R Us
Caramel Apple Cider Vodka Slush Cocktail by Everyday Eileen
Caramel Drizzled Apple Pie Egg Rolls by The Freshman Cook
Chai Apple Multigrain Pancakes by Amy’s Cooking Adventures
Chai-Spiced Baked Apple Oatmeal by The Redhead Baker
Crumbly Apple Cranberry Casserole by Who Needs a Cape
Easy Apple Dumplings by Corn, Beans, Pigs and Kids
Gingered Apple Trifles by Culinary Adventures With Camilla
Individual Apple Croissant Bread Pudding by A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures
Instant Pot Applesauce by Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks
Marlborough Apple Custard Pie by Karen’s Kitchn Stories
Maple Apple Crisp by Jolene’s Recipe Journal
Overnight Apple Pie Steel Cut Oatmeal by Tip Garden
Prairie Apple Crunch by Family Around the Table
Ricotta Tart with Apples and Prosciutto by Cooking With Carlee
Shaved Apple Salad by Cindy’s Recipes and Writings
Spiced Apple Cider Charlotte Cake by Love and Confections
Vegan Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls by The Baking Fairy

Disclaimer: Thank you AppleWeek Sponsors: Swiss Diamond, Nordic Ware, Envy Apples, Imperial Sugar, The Spice House, Rodelle Vanilla, Flahavan’s Irish Oats and Nairn’s for providing the prizes free of charge. These companies also provided the bloggers with samples and product to use for AppleWeek recipes. All opinions are my own. The AppleWeek giveaway is open to U.S. residents, age 18 & up. All entries for the winner will be checked and verified. By entering you give the right to use your name and likeness. The number of entries received determines the odds of winning. Seven (7) winners will be selected. The prize packages will be sent directly from the giveaway sponsors. The AppleWeek Bloggers are not responsible for the fulfillment or delivery of the prize packages. Bloggers hosting this giveaway and their immediate family members in their household cannot enter or win the giveaway. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited by law. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter or any other social channel mentioned in the AppleWeek posts or entry.

Harvest Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich #AppleWeek

September 26, 2018

The best Fall flavors are combined into one sweet and savory sandwich – Harvest Apple Grilled Cheese! Cheddar, apples and bacon are sandwiched between 15-grain bread for a hearty Autumn dish.

This post is sponsored in conjunction with AppleWeek. All opinions are mine alone.

Harvest Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich from LoveandConfections.com #AppleWeek #sponsored

Many years ago, Mr. L&C and I shared a Harvest Apple Sandwich from one of the local food trucks, and it was amazing! Sadly that truck is no longer in operation, so I decided to try and recreate the bacon, cheddar, apple grilled cheese goodness on my own. While it may not be exactly how we remembered, this grilled cheese is a delicious Autumn treat!

I have always loved a sweet and salty combination – the best of both worlds. When building the sandwich, apple butter is spread on the inside of a slice, then topped with bacon, cheddar, apples and more cheddar, then cooked and drizzled with honey. The honey is totally optional, but I love that added touch.

Sweet, salty, creamy, crunchy all combine to create the perfect Fall sandwich. I bet you could even add some caramelized onions for a great flavor combination. You can also choose the sweetness of apples – Honeycrisp, or similar, if you want a sweeter apple; Granny Smith if you want that crisp, tart bite. Either way, they are both delicious.

Make sure you have a good cheddar! None of that individual plastic-wrapped cheese please. go to your deli counter and get the best cheddar you can, or head to the refrigerated section and pick up a brick and slice your own.

When it comes to cooking, I am thoroughly impressed with this Swiss Diamond Cookware Double-Burner Griddle. I can cook multiple grilled cheese sandwiches at the same time, and it makes breakfast a breeze with the surface area for pancakes and French toast! Head to the Swiss Diamond Facebook page for more recipe information.

Harvest Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich

By Love and Confections

Ingredients

2 slices hearty bread, I used a 15 grain
1-2 tablespoons butter, softened
2-3 teaspoons apple butter
3 slices bacon, cooked
2 slices cheddar cheese
1/4 apple, thinly sliced
Honey, optional drizzle

Instructions

Butter one side of each slice of bread. Heat griddle on stove. Place butter side down, then carefully spread apple butter on bread. Top with Bacon, a slice of cheese, apples, a slice of cheese, and bread with butter side up. Cook until golden brown, flip and cook on the other side. Cut and drizzle with honey if desired

Yield: 1 sandwich

Here are a few items used for this recipe:

Wednesday Recipes:

Apple & Red Cabbage Slow-Cooker Sauerkraut by Faith, Hope, Love & Luck
Apple Butter-Glazed Chicken Wings by Culinary Adventures With Camilla
Apple Cherry Jam Cookies by The Monday Box
Apple Cinnamon Cake by Girl Abroad
Cheddar Chicken Tacos with Apple Salsa by A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures
Apple Cider Donuts by House of Nash Eats
Apple Cider Mules by The Redhead Baker
Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Muffins by The Bitter Side of Sweet
Apple Fritters by Cindy’s Recipes and Writings
Apple Maple Breakfast Sausage by Kate’s Recipe Box
Apple Oatmeal Muffins by Books n’ Cooks
Apple Pandowdy by A Day in the Life on the Farm
Apple Pecan Chicken Salad by Cookaholic Wife
Apple Spice Poke Cake by Jonesin’ for Taste
Baked Apple Cider Donuts by Everyday Eileen
Baked Cinnamon Apples by The Anthony Kitchen
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Dip by Corn, Beans, Pigs and Kids
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Bars by Strawberry Blondie Kitchen
Caramel Apple Pie Party Mix by Lemon Blossoms
Chicken with Apple, Onion, and Cider Sauce by Karen’s Kitchen Stories
Cinnamon Apple Fritters by The Freshman Cook
Chipotle Turkey, Apple, & Sweet Potato Chili by Savory Moments
Harvest Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich by Love and Confections
Herby Ginger Apple Compote by Amy’s Cooking Adventures
Individual Skillet Apple Pies by Family Around the Table
Instant Pot Quick Oats with Apples, Walnuts and Honey by 4 Sons R Us
Japanese Beef Curry (Kare Raisu) by Palatable Pastime
Kielbasa, Apple, Bacon, Sweet Potato Skillet Meal by Tip Garden
Mini Apple Crisp Baked Apples by Cooking With Carlee
New England Apple Cake by Jolene’s Recipe Journal
Salted Caramel Apple Cinnamon Turnovers by Daily Dish Recipes
Slow Cooker Chai Apple Butter by Mildly Meandering
Spiked Mulled Apple Cider by Caroline’s Cooking
Stuffed Apples with Homemade Sausage and Rice by Our Good Life

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Apple Butter Overnight Chia Oatmeal #AppleWeek

September 25, 2018

Gear up for a delicious, make-ahead Fall breakfast with Apple Butter Overnight Chia Oatmeal. Warm or cool, this is the perfect breakfast for busy Autumn mornings!

This post is sponsored in conjunction with AppleWeek. All opinions are mine alone.

Apple Butter Overnight Chia Oatmeal from LoveandConfections.com #AppleWeek #sponsored

I love making seasonal overnight oatmeal. On busy mornings, overnight oatmeal is what gets me going. The apple pie flavor comes from cinnamon and apple butter mixing with apple cider to create the perfect Fall breakfast. Don’t forget to enter the #AppleWeek giveaway here!

When the weather gets chilly, this oatmeal is perfect when warmed and topped with some more brown sugar. I am still in 90 degree days, so straight-from-the-fridge is how I eat it currently. I love having my oatmeal topped with something crunchy.

Homemade granola is perfect on top of overnight oats. I also add chopped apples and toasted walnuts. You can definitely customize your oatmeal with tons of different flavors and textures. Layering it with cinnamon yogurt and baked apples also make a delicious morning parfait. The options are limitless.

Apple Butter Overnight Chia Oatmeal

By Love and Confections

Ingredients

1 cup oats
2 tablespoons light brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
4 teaspoons chia seeds
2 tablespoons apple butter
1/2 cup apple cider
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
pinch of salt
Diced apples for garnish
Toasted walnuts for garnish

Instructions

In a small bowl or large mason jar, combine oats, sugar, cinnamon and chia seeds.
In a measuring cup, combine apple butter, apple cider, milk and vanilla. Add into oats. Add salt and stir to combine.
Cover and refrigerate overnight. Portion into bowls and top with diced apples and toasted walnuts.

Yield: 2 servings

Here are some items used to make this recipe:

Tuesday Recipes:

1-Pot Apple Sausage Meatballs by Books n’ Cooks
ABC Sheet Pan Dinner by Jolene’s Recipe Journal
Apple Bacon Goat Cheese Salad by Jonesin’ For Taste
Apple Bourbon Float by Our Good Life
Apple Butter Overnight Chia Oatmeal by Love and Confections
Apple Cinnamon Layer Cake with Brown Butter Streusel by The Baking Fairy
Apple Cornbread Cakelets by The Redhead Baker
Apple Crumble Muffins by The Anthony Kitchen
Apple Noodle Kugel by Palatable Pastime
Caramel Apple Pie Dip by Mildly Meandering
Apple Pie Donuts by Daily Dish Recipes
Apple Pie Turnovers by The Bitter Side of Sweet
Apple Pork Burgers by Cindy’s Recipes and Writings
Apple Cranberry Crock Pot Stuffing by West Via Midwest
Baked Chai-Spiced Apple Chips by Culinary Adventures With Camilla
Beet Apple Salad with Maple Vinaigrette by Caroline’s Cooking
Butterscotch Harvest Cake by Tip Garden
Caramel Apple Cookie Bars by A Day in the Life on the Farm
Caramel Apple Sheet Cake by Hezzi-D’s Books and Cooks
Cinnamon Apple Crumb Cake by Cookaholic Wife
Cinnamon Caramel Apple Frozen Custard by Faith, Hope, Love & Luck
Cold Apple Cider with Caramel Infused Rum by Amy’s Cooking Adventures
Creamy Blue Cheese & Sliced Apple Crostini by Who Needs a Cape?
Deconstructed Chocolate Caramel Mini Apple Pie by The Freshman Cook
Deconstructed Skillet Apple Dumplings by Seduction in the Kitchen
Fall Panzanella Salad by House of Nash Eats
Fresh Apple Cake with Brown Sugar Glaze by Soulfully Made
German Apple Cake with Brown Sugar Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting by Cooking With Carlee
Glazed Spiced Apple Cider Cookies by Savory Moments
Hasselback Apples by Kate’s Recipe Box
PB Apple Muffins by A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures
Skillet Apple and Sausage Stuffing Recipe by Lemon Blossoms
Skinny Apple Crisp by The Saucy Fig
Slow Cooker Apple Butter by Shockingly Delicious
One Pan Pork Chops with Apples and Cinnamon by Strawberry Blondie Kitchen
Out of This World Apple Cake by Family Around the Table

#AppleWeek 2018

September 23, 2018

Get ready for a week filled with apple recipes. #AppleWeek is here – happy Fall y’all!

This post is sponsored in conjunction with AppleWeek . I received product samples from sponsor companies to aid in the creation of the AppleWeek recipes. All opinions are mine alone

I am so excited to be participating in #AppleWeek hosted by Cooking with Carlee! Over 200 apple-filled recipes are coming your way this week!! Everything using fresh apples, to apple cider, apple butter, apple sauce, etc… tons of apple goodness! I cannot wait to share all my recipes and the recipes from the #AppleWeek Bloggers with you.

Apples are such a delicious ingredient in baked goods, savory dishes, and drinks. I love homemade apple butter, fresh apple cider and hot cider donuts. If you’ve never had fresh pressed cider and hot cider donuts, you are truly missing out on one of the best things about Autumn!

AppleWeek Prize Pack #1 from Swiss Diamond

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Available in select stores only, Swiss Diamond’s XD 10 piece set features Swiss Diamond’s newest, most advanced diamond-reinforced nonstick coating. The new coating formulation contains 20% more real diamond crystals than the HD coating and was developed in Switzerland. The result is a significantly tougher cooking surface, 40% more durable with 40% better food release properties as compared to the Classic HD nonstick cookware. The are ideal for healthy cooking without oil and feature quick, easy clean-up with hot soapy water. They are PFOA-free and produced in an eco-friendly manner. The tempered glass lids have adjustable steam vents and the ergonomic handles and knobs are oven safe up to 500 F.

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AppleWeek Prize Pack #2 from Envy Apples

A $60 Pre-Paid Visa Gift Card and a shipment of Envy Apples!

When you’re this good they call you Envy™

It’s hard to put into words what makes Envy™ so remarkable. Each satisfyingly sweet crunch redefines what to expect from an apple. Since it was introduced, Envy™ has emerged as the apple with everything: beautiful skin, sweet flavor and a bright, tender flesh that remains white even after being cut. It’s a pure and pristine apple that’s a genuine work of orchard-growing genius.

Envy™ was born in New Zealand using natural plant-breeding methods, crossing a Braeburn with a Royal Gala apple. From there, a handpicked team of talented growers, planted trees in regions perfect for growing Envy, such as New Zealand, Washington state and Chile where they benefit from long,

sundrenched days and crisp, cool evenings. Enjoy Envy™ just about anywhere—it’s nature’s passport to a magical moment of indulgent time. For more information visit envyapples.com

AppleWeek Prize Pack #3 from The Spice House

The Baker’s Gift Box

The Spice House has been sourcing premium spices since 1957, bringing you the finest selections from all over the globe. They provide the freshest and most flavorful ingredients possible via small, weekly batch grinding and blending.

Prize Pack #4 from Rodelle Vanilla

A Baker’s Dream Come True!

Package will include pure vanilla extract, gourmet dutch-processed baking cocoa, gourmet vanilla extract, gourmet vanilla beans, organic vanilla extract, organic chocolate extract, almond extract, vanilla paste, and some fun baking supplies to whip of your next batch of goodies with!

Rodelle believes ingredients makes all the difference, that’s why they are passionate about offering a complete line of superior baking ingredients, vanilla products and gourmet spice blends. Quality vanilla extract may cost a little bit more, but the flavors are worth it! Rodelle works with a farmer-owned co-op in Madagascar, Sahanala, to craft a farm-to-table vanilla that benefits the vanilla farmers and their families. Learn more about Rodelle’s vertical integration here. Or, Find out where to buy great Rodelle ingredients near you here.

Prize Pack #5 from Imperial Sugar

A Sweet Tooth’s Dream Come True!

The Winner will receive 1 case of 2-lb granulated sugar (20 bags) + 1 case of 2-lb light brown sugar (24 lbs), a silicone baking mat and a custom apron.

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Prize Pack # 6 from Flahavan’s Irish Oatmeal and Nairn’s Oatcakes

Flahavan’s and Nairn’s have teamed up to bring out an oatstanding prize pack filled with naturally creamy, sustainable Flahavan’s Irish Oatmeal and our go-to gluten free grahams by Nairn’s. We have a good gut feeling that you’re going to love it!

Flahavan’s Irish Oatmeal is sustainably grown and milled in Co. Waterford, Ireland by the Flahavan’s family since 1785. They have sourced the finest oats from the same Irish farming families for generations. Flahavan’s oats are milled in small batches and minimally processed according to 230 year old milling tradition and double kilned. They are non-GMO and naturally gluten-free.

Nairn’s Gluten Free Grahams are rather good in more ways than one. For a start they’re made with only the finest wholegrain oats- naturally energizing and proven to reduce cholesterol. And at only 45 calories a piece, they’re a healthy alternative the the usual graham (also 40% less sugar!). But the real feel good factor comes from knowing every delicious gluten-fee bite is batch tested to Elisa standards so they’re truly safe to eat.

Prize Pack #7 from Nordic Ware

Perfect for baking all of these AppleWeek treats, Nordic Ware will give one lucky winner an apple cakelet pan and prism baker’s bundle with a quarter and half sheet pan!

Nordic Ware is a family owned and operated kitchenware company since 1946 and has steadily built its reputation as an internationally distributed kitchenware brand. As a leading manufacturer and innovator, Nordic Ware produces the vast majority of its products in America, at its Minneapolis headquarters, including bakeware, cookware, grillware, microwave, and kitchen gadgets and accessories.

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Sunday’s Recipes:

Apple Cinnamon Cakelets by Amy’s Cooking Adventures
Apple Fritters by Seduction in the Kitchen
Apple Pecan Sticky Bun Bites by Soulfully Made
Apple Pie Monkey Bread by The Bitter Side of Sweet
Apple Pull Apart Bread by A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures
Apple Sage Turkey Breakfast Sausage by Simple and Savory
Apple Slaw by Girl Abroad
Apple Spice Cake by Mildly Meandering
Applejack Rabbit Cocktail by Karen’s Kitchen Stories
Applesauce Nut Bread by Palatable Pastime
Cider Braised Chicken Breasts by Everyday Eileen
Cider Doughnuts by The Redhead Baker
Fresh Apple Granola by An Affair from the Heart
Caramel Apple Whoopie Pies by Jolene’s Recipe Journal
Seared Steak with Envy-able Apples by Culinary Adventures With Camilla
Warm Spiced Apple Topping by Family Around the Table

Pumpkin Pecan Pie Layer Cake #PumpkinWeek

September 21, 2018

Pumpkin and pecans are a match made in dessert heaven, especially in a Pumpkin Pecan Pie Layer Cake with moist pumpkin spice cake, pecan pie filling and cinnamon buttercream. This cake will be a show-stopper at any fun-filled Fall event.

This post is sponsored in conjunction with #PumpkinWeek. All opinions are my own.

Pumpkin Pecan Pie Layer Cake from LoveandConfections.com #PumpkinWeek #sponsored

Happy Friday! #PumpkinWeek is coming to a close and what better way to celebrate than with cake!! This Pumpkin Pecan Pie Layer Cake is what Autumn dreams are made of! I knew I wanted a mashup of sorts for this dessert – not too much pumpkin, not too much pecan – a delicious pairing of two Fall classics.

There were so many delicious recipes from this year’s #PumpkinWeek. You can see all of today’s delicious recipes below. A special thanks to my co-hostess, Christie from A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures for all you do behind the scenes! Don’t forget to enter the #PumpkinWeek giveaway here!

All the components of this cake can be made ahead of time, so you don’t have to worry about rushing to put everything together all in one day. I made my cakes the day before, and my filling the morning of assembly.

The buttercream was made fresh, but you can make it ahead of time and re-whip it afte letting it come to room temperature. Just be mindful of the humidity and heat that day (for those of us living in the South).

Another easy tip is to make it semi-homemade with a box mix as your cake base. I love being able to add flavors to a cake mix and make it my own. It definitely helps when there are lots of components to a cake.

I envisioned this cake way back in the planning stages of #PumpkinWeek. I knew I wanted a tall, 6-inch 3-layer cake with piped border, pecans on the bottom and caramel drizzle. I have to admit, I am in love with the way this cake turned out.

I piped a border with a French star tip – you can use either a Wilton 8B or Ateco 869. It is quite possibly my favorite border, ever since culinary school. While I love the 1M for quite a bit, this French star tip has my heart!

Here are some items I used in today’s recipe:

Pumpkin Pecan Pie Layer Cake

By Love and Confections

Ingredients

1 box (15.25 oz) spice cake mix
1/2 cup pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling
3 large eggs
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup water

Instructions

Heat oven to 350F. Prepare 3 6-inch cake pans with cooking spray and parchment. Set aside.
In stand mixer, add all ingredients and mix to combine on low speed. Increase speed to medium for 1 minute. Divide batter between cake pans.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool in pans for 10-15 minutes then turn out on wire rack to cool completely.

Pecan Pie Filling

By Liv for Cake

Ingredients

2 tablespoons cornstarch
2/3 cup water
1 large egg yolk
3/4 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

In medium pot, whisk cornstarch, water and egg yolk together. Add in pecans and sugar. Heat on medium, whisking continuously until boiling.
Boil for 1 minute, whisking constantly, then remove from heat and whisk in butter and vanilla. Remove from pan into heat-safe container and cool completely before using.

Cinnamon Vanilla Bean Frosting

By Love and Confections

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups vegetable shortening
1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, room temperature
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla bean seeds (optional)
6 cups Dixie Crystals Confectioners Powdered Sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2-4 tablespoons milk
Pecan halves and chopped pecans
Caramel sauce

Instructions

In bowl of stand mixer fitted with paddle attachment, beat shortening for 3-5 minutes. Add in butter, and vanillas and beat to combine.
Sift together powdered sugar and cinnamon. Slowly add to butter mixture, alternating with milk 1 tablespoon at a time, depending on desired consistency.
If not using immediately, transfer to bowl, cover with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. Bring to room temperature and re-whip before using.

Cake Assembly

Level Cakes. Place bottom layer on 6-inch cake board. Pipe a small amount of frosting on the top of the cake. Pipe a ring of buttercream around the top and fill with pecan filling. Place second layer on top and repeat.
Place third layer on top and apply a crumb coat over cake. Place in freezer for 15-20 minutes.
Frost top and sides and smooth with cake scraper/comb. Place in freezer for 15-20 minutes to chill.
Fill piping bag with French star tip and pipe a rope border along the top. Place pecan halves around base of cake. Drip caramel over cake and sprinkle on chopped pecans. Serve or refrigerate then bring to room temperature before serving.

Here are today’s #PumpkinWeek recipes:

Beverages:

Pumpkin Juice from House of Nash Eats
Pumpkin Old Fashioned from The Redhead Baker
Pumpkin Pie Milkshake from The Beard and The Baker

Savory:

Black Futsu Pumpkin Pizza from Culinary Adventures with Camilla
Cheesy Pumpkin Pasta Bake from Hezzi-D’s books and Cooks
Ham & Cheese Stuffed Pumpkin Rolls from Amy’s Cooking Adventures
Mincemeat Pumpkin Pie from 4 Sons ‘R’ Us
Pumpkin and Seafood Stew from A Day in the Life on the Farm
Pumpkin Cheddar Ale Soup from Strawberry Blondie Kitchen
Pumpkin Grilled Cheese Sticks from Cindy’s Recipes and Writings
Pumpkin Pepperjack Macaroni and Cheese from Cooking with Carlee
Pumpkin Ravioli (Tortelli di Zucca) from Caroline’s Cooking
Pumpkin Sausage Penne from Jonesin’ For Taste

Baked Goods & Desserts:

Chocolate Cream Cheese Pumpkin Cake from Rants From My Crazy Kitchen
Chocolate Dipped Pumpkin Truffles from The Chef Next Door
Chocolate Truffle Pumpkin Pound Cake from Family Around the Table
No Bake Pumpkin Cream Cheese Pie from Eat Move Make
Pumpkin Bacon Waffles with Cinnamon Syrup from For the Love of Food
Pumpkin Caramel Scones from Cookaholic Wife
Pumpkin Chia Pudding from April Golightly
Pumpkin Chocolate Cheesecake Bars from Who Needs A Cape?
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins from The Crumby Kitchen
Pumpkin Chocolate Donuts from The Bitter Side of Sweet
Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting from Daily Dish Recipes
Pumpkin French Toast Loaf from Seduction In The Kitchen
Pumpkin Fudge from Sweet Beginnings
Pumpkin Lava Cakes from The Spiffy Cookie
Pumpkin Muffins from Everyday Eileen
Pumpkin Pecan Pancakes with Caramel Syrup from The Chef Next Door
Pumpkin Pecan Pie Layer Cake from Love and Confections
Pumpkin Pie Dessert Dip from Hardly A Goddess
Pumpkin Pie Krispie Treats from The Mandatory Mooch
Pumpkin Pop Tarts from Platter Talk

This year is even bigger and better than ever with a giveaway! Thirty nine bloggers from around the country are showcasing their best pumpkin dishes. Get ready for Fall with over 130 pumpkin recipes throughout the week including cocktails, main courses, pizzas, pastas, pastries, breads, muffins, and plenty of desserts! Our PumpkinWeek Sponsors are helping us give away some great prizes. Thank you so much, Sponsors, for your generosity. We have an incredible giveaway below and we’d love if you would take a moment to read about it and what you can win!

Enter the #PumpkinWeek Giveaway here!

Disclaimer: Thank you PumpkinWeek Sponsors: Dixie Crystals, Cabot Cheese, and Eggland’s Best for providing the prizes free of charge. These companies also provided the bloggers with samples and product to use for PumpkinWeek recipes. All opinions are my own. The PumpkinWeek giveaway is open to U.S. residents, age 18 & up. All entries for the winner will be checked and verified. By entering you give the right to use your name and likeness. The number of entries received determines the odds of winning. Three (3) winners will be selected. The prize packages will be sent directly from the giveaway sponsors. The PumpkinWeek Bloggers are not responsible for the fulfillment or delivery of the prize packages. Bloggers hosting this giveaway and their immediate family members in their household cannot enter or win the giveaway. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited by law. This promotion is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter or any other social channel mentioned in the PumpkinWeek posts or entry.

Until next time,
LOVE & CONFECTIONS!

Pumpkin Pie Bourbon Cocktail #PumpkinWeek

September 19, 2018

Pumpkin isn’t just for sweet and savory recipes, it’s great in cocktails too, like my Pumpkin Pie Bourbon Cocktail. Autumn spices are infused in homemade pumpkin pie simple syrup which blends deliciously with smooth bourbon. Whether it’s happy hour at home or cocktails for a crowd, Pumpkin Pie Bourbon Cocktail will be your go-to drink this Fall!

This post is sponsored in conjunction with #PumpkinWeek. All opinions are my own.

Pumpkin Pie Bourbon Cocktail from LoveandConfections.com #PumpkinWeek #sponsored

I know it’s only Wednesday and I’m sharing a cocktail, but this needs to be on your to-do list ASAP! Pumpkin Pie Bourbon Cocktail is the perfect drink to help ring in the Fall season. It’s day 3 of #PumpkinWeek and I would love to share this cocktail in person with my lovely co-hostess, Christie from A Kitchen Hoor’s Adventures! Don’t forget to enter the #PumpkinWeek giveaway here!

I am definitely a sucker for seasonal drinks. I love being able to celebrate the season with beverages, as well as food, and cocktails are always fun to create. Pumpkin Pie Simple Syrup is the base of this drink, and let me tell you, you’ll want to keep this in your refrigerator for not only cocktails, but also coffee, tea, hot chocolate, etc. It is delicious and I will probably make a double batch for my next round of cocktails.

I recommend investing in a good fine sieve and/or cheesecloth. You want the flavor of the pumpkin and spices, but a clearer liquid is preferred. But don’t discard the solids left behind. You can use it in place of the puree in my Whipped Pumpkin Pie Honey Butter, add it into the ingredients for Semi-Homemade Pumpkin Butter, or even mix it into a smoothie or ice cream.

We are definitely a bourbon loving household. Mr. L&C was especially excited to be my taste-tester for this round. Make sure you have a good bourbon on hand. A flavored bourbon like vanilla or apple would definitely be okay in this recipe too.

The Pumpkin Pie Bourbon Cocktail is topped with club soda. I like that bit of effervescence and how the flavors all blend together. Make sure your simple syrup is completely chilled before making this cocktail.

Here are some items I used for this recipe:

Pumpkin Pie Bourbon Cocktail

By Love and Confections

Ingredients

2 ounces Pumpkin Pie Simple Syrup
2 ounces bourbon
2-3 ounces club soda
Ice
Maple Syrup
Cinnamon Sugar

Instructions

Place maple syrup and cinnamon sugar each in shallow dishes. Dip a rocks glass into maple syrup, letting excess fall off, then dip into cinnamon sugar.
Fill glass with ice. Combine simple syrup and bourbon in glass and top with club soda.

Yield: 1 serving

Pumpkin Pie Simple Syrup

Ingredients

1 cup water
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
pinch salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Combine water, sugar, pumpkin, spice and salt in medium pan. Heat, stirring consistently, until sugars are dissolved. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
Place fine mesh sieve over heat-safe container (optionally line with cheesecloth also) and strain the syrup. Refrigerate for up to one week.
*see post for ideas on how to use leftover solids.