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November mornings are always particularly foggy and cold. The deep chill that reminds you that winter is around the corner, for me I always get nostalgic in November.
I am nostalgic maybe or most certainly for a place that only exists in my memories. The warm hugs, Grandma's house so full of people that the only place to sit is the window sill. The smell of coffee, apple butter or apple crisp as soon as you walk through the door. And the laughter of family members who are no longer with us. That feeling of love and excitement to see everyone.
Our family tradition is and always was Monday Night Coffee, the house would be packed with aunts, uncles and cousins. People were always welcomed in, and you were family. We still carry on the tradition and hopefully for my kids, they get the same love, happiness and memories that I hold now so dear.
Those types of traditions are so important they remind you about the importance of slowing down and connecting. Even if it starts with you making the first step, start those family traditions. Send a text or phone call, an open invite to connect over coffee, a baked good or tea. Have a standing Sunday night dinner with the family where life can pause for a little while and you can leave your worries at the door.
Don’t rush through this season of life, light a candle for a loved one, say a prayer for them and smile at the memories. Most importantly however is to remember to slow down and create new memories, you can never start too early!
Grandma's apple crisp
Yield: 6 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 30 minutes
INGREDIENTS
Topping
1/2 cup gluten-free measure-for-measure flour (such as King Arthur)
1/2 cup gluten-free quick oats
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch of salt
1/3 cup dairy-free butter, chilled and diced (such as Smart Balance)
Filling
5 apples, chopped (peeled, if desired)
3 tablespoons dairy-free butter, melted
2 tablespoons gluten-free measure-for-measure flour (such as King Arthur)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
3 tablespoons dairy-free oat milk (such as Planet Oat Barista)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch of salt
Servings suggestions (optional): Dairy-free vanilla ice cream or whipped topping
DIRECTIONS
1. Pre-heat the oven at 375, grease a 8×8 pan or ceramic dish.
2. Topping: combine all ingredients and mix together with a fork or your fingers till it resembles a chunky crumble topping. Refrigerate while you get the filling ready.
3. Filling: chop your apples, peel if you like, put them in a large bowl and toss them with lemon juice.
4. Add the rest of your filling ingredients and stir until fully combined.
5. Put apple mixture into the dish, spread evenly. Top with topping mixture, spread evenly as well.
6. Bake 30 minutes until golden brown, cool for 5 minutes before serving.
7. Top with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra goodness!