Rustic Cardamom Vanilla Apple Pie

Macy’s approached me last week about being included in their mBlog Recipe Showcase, in which I talk about one of my favorite Thanksgiving recipes. And as an added bonus, one of you have the opportunity to win a fabulous gift (more on that at the bottom of the post), perfect for using during one of you own holiday meals.

 

We are now less than one week away from Thanksgiving making its annual appearance in homes across the country. My family celebrates with the traditional fare: Turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, dressing, cranberry sauce, and a slew of other goodies.

 

Even though I’d love to host Thanksgiving at our house, I can’t. I’ve got about four other people in line in front of me to take over as host once my parents decide they’ve had enough of the hosting business.

 

That’s okay though. We’ve evolved to a sort of “pot luck” style Thanksgiving, where all the big stuff is cooked on site at my parents’ farm, and most of the sides are brought à la carte by hungry family members. One year, before I had my kids, my sister and I baked 10 pies after scouring recipes from some of our beloved chefs. Yes, we were nuts. BUT, they were delicious, and without a couple of cute loud and obnoxious kids nipping my ankles, it was actually quite fun!

 

 

I tend to be a Thanksgiving traditionalist, so no matter what, pumpkin pie is definitely on my plate. During the year of 10 pies, I made an apple pie with a twist – cardamom and vanilla. Warmed with a dollop of vanilla bean ice cream, it was one to remember.