Apple squares

Something unexpected happened today. Arriving home after my extremely necessary yet tiresome wax appointment, I prepared myself to jump straight into work. And then lo and behold I opened the office door to find my husband and brother doing the orders (mind you, this was at 11:45am, a time I wouldn't even dream of seeing my brother awake, let alone in my house). I had something I only ever get on a Public Holiday; a day off from work.

At first I was unsure what to do with myself, routine is very comforting, and I can't believe I am saying this considering all of my daily complaints, but I actually wanted to work. I offered to pitch in but was ushered away. So I thought I'd tackle the kitchen and some laundry. With all of my unused energy I finished that in less than an hour. The sun was streaming in through the kitchen so I thought I'd relish it by baking something for afternoon tea.

Autumn is my absolute favourite season - they are hot days, warm days, cold days and the occasional rainy day. No monotonous weather and plenty of beautiful changing leaves and stirring breezes to keep me happy. Autumn also happens to be my favourite season food wise. I delved into figs and pomegranates the first chance I got, but apples in desserts I adore, especially on the cooler days when you need that soft warmth.

ease: 4.5/5.
prep time: 5mins.
cooking time: 25mins.
total: 30mins.

taste: 5/5. These are freaking delicious! I made the following modifications:

• 3/4cup pulverised walnuts
• 1 granny smith apple chopped
• demerera sugar to sprinkle on the top, adds a nice caramel taste as I didn't melt caramel chocolate to drizzle over the to

They were moist yet had a crunchy top. The warm, soft apple went perfectly with the spicy cinnamon and walnuts, I really had to restrain myself from eating them all as soon as they were out of the oven. Once again mine started to burn before the last 5-10mins of the suggested cooking time- my oven's temperature must definitely be a few degrees hotter.

would I make it again: Hell yes.

recipe: http://mybakingaddiction.blogspot.com/2008/10/caramel-apple-squares.html