This recipe is from Chef Hannah Cook which was demonstrated at our From Market to Table chef series at the Aptos Farmers Market. INGREDIENTS: 1/2 cup butter, melted, (112g) and browned 1 cup dark brown sugar, tightly packed (220g) 1 large egg, lightly beaten 1 teaspoon vanilla 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/8 teaspoon baking soda...Read More

Which kind of pumpkin is best for baking? Smaller is better – large field pumpkins, which are specially bred for Halloween jack-o-lanterns, are generally too tough and stringy for baking. Choose “pie” or "sugar" pumpkins or other flavorful varieties, such as Sugar Baby. Small and sweet, with dark orange-colored flesh, they're perfect for pies, muffins,...Read More

This is one of those almost ‘too good to be true’ recipes because it is so easy and delicious. Be sure to use firm ripe (but not overly ripe) pears with good flavor. INGREDIENTS: 1 unbaked pie crust 5-8 fresh ripe pears, peeled, cored, and cut into thick slices* 1/2 cup sugar 1/4 cup butter,...Read More

This fall dessert showcases tender poached quince in a simple syrup redolent with cardamom and cinnamon. It’s perfect for a special occasion or when you want to serve guests a unique dessert. INGREDIENTS: For the Poached Quince: 4 ripe quinces, washed, cut in half, cores removed 2 cups granulated sugar 4 cups water 4-5 cardamom...Read More

When summer peaches are in season, you’ll want to make this all summer long. While you can also make this dessert with canned peaches, we far prefer fresh peaches! INGREDIENTS: 4 cups fresh peaches, skinned and sliced 2 tablespoons sugar + 1 cup granulated sugar (divided) 1/2 cup butter, room temperature 1 cup all-purpose flour...Read More

This buttery, rich cake has a moist, slightly dense texture. It’s lovely with brunch, as a dessert, or served with tea or coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up. INGREDIENTS: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 1 1/2 cups whole-milk ricotta cheese (drained to be as dry as possible) 1...Read More

What’s better than fresh peach ice cream for a summer dessert? Not much! This easy ice cream can be made in less than an hour in an ice cream maker. INGREDIENTS: 4 cups ripe, sweet peaches, peeled and stoned (about 6 medium peaches) 1 cup sugar 3 cups heavy cream 1 cup evaporated milk 1...Read More

Prepare to indulge in a cake that is both effortlessly simple to make and undeniably delicious! Hot milk cake is the perfect cake to serve with fresh summer fruit such as sliced peaches or mixed berries. If you appreciate the subtle flavor of shortbread or pound cake, you will savor the classic taste of this...Read More

This blueberry pie is a classic — simple, straightforward goodness! INGREDIENTS: CRUST Use this recipe for double pie crust. FILLING 3/4 cup sugar 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1/4 teaspoon salt 6 cups fresh blueberries 2 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons butter METHOD: Heat oven to 425°F. For the crust, roll half the pie dough into...Read More

Homey Fall crisps are pure comfort food. We like to use fresh Warren or Bartlett pears that are a little bit firm — don’t use overly ripe or mushy pears. Serve the crisp warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate Fall dessert! INGREDIENTS: 7 cups peeled and sliced pears (about 7...Read More