Almond and Apricot - a winning combo.

Sometimes I get into the kitchen without a recipe and just wing it and this is one of those times!


This is an apricot almond tart and it is comprised of a few layers and a few secrets.

The biggest secret is the crust, it is a cream cheese crust (something about the cheese just helps balance out all that sweetness from the apricot and marzipan (Oops there's another secret!)

I had a chunk of cream cheese on hand and worked it into the dough (lessening a bit of the butter) and added a few drops of almond extract (I was in the mood for almond but you can omit it) to make the crust, then it just got pressed into a round pie dish, nothing fancy, just say it's rustic!

I rolled out a thin sheet of marzipan and set that onto the pie dough then a layer of apricot jam went over and finally a whole lot of sliced almonds.

I also mixed up a bit of the jam with water and brushed it over the almonds so they don't burn.

Baked at 375 F until the crust is golden on the bottom and edges.

Let it cool and enjoy, tastes even better the next day!

Tea - the perfect drink for cool weather

I love tea!! Here are some shots that I've taken over the last year or so from the various kinds of teas in my kitchen.

The blooming teas are impressive and so gorgeous.

If you haven't tried a lot of these already I encourage you to indulge... this Autumn go to your nearest gourmet tea shop and pick some up!

Brew a nice pot of this universally enjoyed beverage to share with your friends and family.