This pie was really, really good but I would recommend a few changes. First, definitely add a tsp cinnamon to the syrup mixture and a tsp of vanilla (and yes take out a tiny bit of the water to balance). Second, while I love granny smith apples using just those was way too tart so I’d recommend mixing in a few gala or Fuji; but do use eight apples for the pie- even if it looks like a lot they cook down and with just six the center seems to cave in instead of having that nice mounded look. I also added a few dashes of cinnamon to my sliced apples and stirred that in before adding the syrup. I did add half the syrup to the apples before pouring into the pie dish and I think that is the way to go. Definitely do the lattice top! It is essential for pouring the rest of the syrup on, it looks amazing, and it is so simple to do there is no reason not to. I slice my apples very thin so I didn’t have any trouble with the apples being fully cooked, but after reading other’s advice I baked my pie at 350 the whole time (1 hour) on the lowest rack, with a cookie sheet under it, and it was perfect! The only thing that makes this pie better is serving it with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream…

Reviewed On: Nov. 5, 2009

Yep, theses cookies are by far the best of any pumpkin chip I've ever had. Truthfully, I think they're now my favorite cookie. I did make a few small tweaks. First, add a tsp or more of pumpkin spice, it really helps change it from good to amazing. Second, I've found this cookie is so great why just enjoy it one way? So, I separate my batter into three bowls. Into the largest portion I add a lot of white chocolate chips - once baked these are best eaten cold straight out of the refrigerator. The second portion of batter gets milk chocolate chips - this is my husband’s favorite and it also great straight out of the fridge or nuked in the microwave for like 20 seconds. The third batter gets semi-sweet chocolate and these are by far best when heated in the microwave (again for like 20 seconds) so that the chocolate is gooey. I do store all of them in a covered container in the refrigerator. Be generous when adding your chocolate chips, more definitely is better and I'm a person who usually uses less than recommended for traditional chocolate chip cookies, but the cookie consistency and pumpkin flavor really are best when paired with the chocolate. Enjoy!!

Reviewed On: Nov. 5, 2009