September brings a a sense of expectation for me. I look forward to closing the curtains against the dark, lighting the fire and putting on cozy socks for the first time this autumn. September is a time of opportunity. The time for English apples, making damson gin, preserving and pickling and making the most of the last of the summer flowers. This is the time of year I need to 'play house', make us cosy and warm and nothing makes me cosier than cooking and baking.
I love buying cookbooks. Many are packed away at present as we decorate our study(spare bedroom) but there is nothing lovlier than curling up on the sofa with a favourite cookbook. My very favourite at the moment is this by lovley Lotte Duncan.
Any blogger who loves vintage will ooh and aah over this book. Not only are the recipes mouthwateringly good but it is a feast for the eyes as well. The pictures show the food photographed in Lotte's beautiful cottage and garden. Believe me you'll pick this book up again and again and love every minute of it.
I loved this plum cake I made from it.
Another favourite at the moment is the Popina baking book. Try the chocolate cookies from here - the best I've ever made.
Young Master F has a real passion for cupcakes and I think I could make these from memory now.
And of course yuo have to make the most of the strawberries whilst there is still a hint of warmth before Sunday lunch return to the ritual of fruit crumbles.
Whilst I witter on about baking and food. Has anyone been watching The Great British Bake Off? I've loved watching this series but I was so disappointed with the final. I didn't like losing one contestant after the first challenge and felt that some of the comments directed at one of the contestants was so unfair. I was with Mary Berry - I so wanted Miranda to get through. Her lemony cupcakes were just the thing for afternoon tea. I'd love to know what you think.
