October 14th marked the 6th birthday of Living the Gourmet.
Life has been full and busy these days and the anniversary passed without me evening realizing it.
What a blessing it has been to have this blog. It has brought me so much joy, many memories, and beautiful friendships.
As many of you see, it is a family effort. I would not have had this blog at all if it had not been for my son, Michael.
We were sitting around the table one afternoon during the summer. I was telling my son and daughter how I wish I had my mother’s and grandmother’s recipes. I don’t know where they all went…I would have loved to have made half the things for my family that I grew up making with my mother. That is when my son told me to start a blog. He suggested I start a food blog where I share all my recipes so they would never get lost or be forgotten. A couple of months later, after some consideration and planning, research and deciding on a name, we started Living the Gourmet.
If you would like to take a trip down memory lane with us, read our very first post here.
It brings me much comfort to know that my son and daughter will have this site to look back on, with all the recipes I’ve created for them to someday make for their loved ones. Here is my daughter’s very first contribution to LTG, which started a beautiful collaboration between mother and daughter.
This site has been with me through many difficult times in my life, but it’s always been something I can fall back on. It is something I can turn to at the end of the day and share a poem or some small words of how I am feeling.
One of the most trying moments for me was this post. My letter to you after Hurricane Sandy hit New York. The out pour of love, kindness, and support was overwhelming. In a way, I believe it even helped carry me through it all. It helped me rebuild. For you see, it was at that time that I was also going through a divorce after thirty years of marriage. So those words and comments you all sent me and my family meant more than many of you may realize, and I’ve never forgotten.
As many of you may know I was then featured in one of NY’s largest circulars where I shared the very first meal I made after getting my new kitchen after the storm. Since you may need to create an account online to view it on Newsday’s site, here is a link from a fellow blogger who shared my recipe with her readers.
Now you understand that I am not just celebrating a blogiversary. I am celebrating memories, meals, family, friends, love, and above all, the blessings God has bestowed upon me with this little blog.
Thank you for coming and supporting me, for reaching out and being my friend. I love you all.
In celebration, my daughter made this French Apple Tart for us.
Enjoy with Love,
Catherine
xo
French Apple Tart
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups soft wheat flour
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 3 tablespoons shortening
- 2 tablespoons cold water
For Topping & Filling
- 2 large apples (I used Jonathan), peeled, cored and cut into 1/4-inch thick slices
- 2 addition apples, peeled cored, and chopped
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon cloves, divided
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice, divided
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest, divided
- 2 tablespoons white sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
For the Crust:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flours, salt and sugar. Add egg, shortening and water. Mix until a soft, pliable dough forms. If it seems too sticky add a touch of more flour; if it's crumble add more water, 1 spoonful at time. Knead gently and press into a tart dish. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until edges are slightly golden. Remove and let cool.
For Topping & Filling:
- In a large pan over medium heat, cook down the apple slices with 2 tablespoons brown sugar, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon cloves, ½ teaspoon lemon juice and ½ teaspoon lemon zest. Cook until the apples just begin to soften (figure 3-5 minutes). Remove from pan and transfer to a plate to cool.
- In a large glass bowl, toss the chopped apples with 2 tablespoons white sugar, cornstarch, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon cloves, ½ teaspoon lemon juice and ½ teaspoon lemon zest. Place in pan and cook down until soft. Take a pastry blender and mash the softened apple chucks. The mixture should be thick and slightly caramelized. Remove from heat.
- Pour the caramelized apples onto the crust.
- Arrange the apple slices in concentric circles over the caramelized apple sauce and bake tart for about 15 additional minutes.
- Removed and let cool before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
If You Enjoyed Today’s Recipe…
Be sure to follow us on Instagram to stay up to date with all things Living the Gourmet, and for more great recipes, tips and tricks.
Did you make this recipe?
If so, let me know in the comments down below, or post a picture to Instagram, or to Pinterest, and I’ll give you a shoutout on Instagram, or post your pin to one of my Pinterest boards!
Ordinary J says
This apple tart is gorgeous. Wow!!!
gloria says
Aw dear how lovely post and this lovely apple tart look awesome.
I always love your blog!
Yes and remember all!
You have amazing kids you know I love Tammy am sure Michael is adorable!
All the best to you and yours dears:)
Comedy Plus says
♪♪Happy Bloggiversary to you,♪♪
♪♪Happy Bloggiversary to you,♪♪
♪♪Happy Bloggiversary Dear Living The Gourmet,♪♪
♪♪Happy Bloggiversary to you.♪♪
Have a fabulous day honey. Big hugs. ♥♥♥
Angie@Angie's Recipes says
Happy Blog Anniversary, Catherine!
Your apple tart looks splendid!
Dottie Sauchelli Balin says
Dear Catherine, First let me say "Happy Bloggiversary" to you, Michael, and of course dear Tammy, 6 years that is amazing how time goes so quickly! My blog will be going on 4 years in Jan. 2015. I am grateful to have met you and your family. I always enjoy reading and learning about your blog posts plus the delicious recipes. I know what you mean about your blog getting you through such tough times. Being ill like in my case, I have done the same. When I am not feeling well or feel down, I always think about my next post and what I am going to write about. So blogging seems to be like a doctor in a way. You have had so many accomplishments throughout these 6 years, and you should be so proud of your family as well. The Apple Tart that Tammy made is so beautiful! The shape is like a rose, gosh you must have hated to cut through it. But I am sure it was outstanding! Have to try this one. Catherine dear friend, keep writing your blog and we will keep reading. Blessing to you and your family...:) Dottie
Silvia Brisi says
Wonderful cake!! Greetings for your blog!!
Nee says
Hi Catherine ,
Happy Blogiversary and may you have many more just as happy and fill with love . It's said family that prays together stays together and happy . I am so glad I met you not only for your recipes , but your poems my dear Catherine is outstanding .
The tart is so pretty , I will have to close my eyes to cut , (giggling) .
Catherine , a toast to you , Michael and Tammy , a job well done . It is a privilege and a pleasure knowing you and your family .
Blessing dear ~Nee~ ;-D
Summer says
Happy blogoversary!
Choc Chip Uru says
Super happy blogiversary my friend! What a gorgeous apple tart to celebrate with 😀
Cheers
Choc Chip Uru
Esther B says
Quelle belle tarte, i love it:)))
AnnMarie says
How nice to get to know you and your blog a little better! Happy Blogiversary! I enjoy every post and the recipes are divine! This tart looks too beautiful to eat! A work of art.
Amy @ Ms. Toody Goo Shoes says
Happy Blogiversary, Catherine and Tammy! I so enjoyed reading this post - it's almost like we forget sometimes that real life is going on behind the scenes. I enjoy your beautiful photos, wonderful writing, and fantastic recipes! Many more happy years of blogging to you! The tart is just gorgeous!
sandie says
That is a beautiful apple tart. And happy anniversary for 6 years - I thin I have been with you since the beginning. You have a come a long way baby!
FABBY says
Like mother, like daughter! She is so talented too and the pie looks amazing! Happy bloggyversary...I'm for one, am very happy to have met you lovely lady.
Have a wonderful weekend.
FABBY
Medeja says
Happy anniversary! And thanks for sharing this beautiful tart!
Trish says
Happy Blogiversary. The tart is beautiful. Now I know what to do with my last two granny smith apples. Thanks so much for the recipe and the memories.
Cindy Eikenberg says
Catherine, this is the most beautiful tart, like a work of art! Much love and congratulations on your anniversary. I feel very blessed to have the honor of knowing you through blogging. To many more years of fabulous recipes, joy and friendship! xo
Julie says
Wow Happy Anniversary of 6 years of blogging. I am new to your food blog but love it! Wishing you many more wonderful years. I love your apple tart, it's so pretty and I bet delicious tasting.
Julie @ Julie's Lifestyle
Michelle @TheGraciousWife.com says
This is so beautiful! And sounds delicious too! This would be a great dish to impress guests! Pinning to try
Big Daddy Dave says
Catherine, Happy anniversary! There is something satisfying about creating a blog...telling a story...researching, etc. It's a modern day form of two-way communication with others far beyond what we were used to back in the day. FYI...That is one beautiful apple tort! Cut me a slice... Take Care, Big Daddy Dave
Ginny Hartzler says
Happy, Happy Blogversary! And for sure it is so much more than a blog. It really is your journal of life. Your tart is way too pretty to eat! The photos are divine.
Ann says
Happy Blog Anniversary!
I am so glad to have found your blog
it is a constant joy to visit here.
And that apple tart looks so good. Yum!
http://roomsofinspiration.blogspot.com
Amelia says
Hi my dear Catherine, Happy Blog Anniversary to you. Always love to drop by your blog to read your wonderful posting and awesome recipes. You're an excellent chef. Congratulation to you, keep up the good job.
To maintain a blog is not easy but it's really fun cos we get to know more friends from all over the world sharing our recipes. Good for our children too or those who have children studying oversea, they can refer to their mom's blog for reference.
Glad to meet you in blog land. With lots of love and hugs to you.
Have a lovely weekend, regards
Amelia says
Hi dear Catherine, I forgot..... the apple tart is really beautiful. 2 thumbs up to Tammy. Well done!
Regards
Amelia
swathi says
Catherine lovely post, yes blogging is always helpful in one or other way. I am completing my 5 years of blogging on this October end. It is like our kids. Glad to know about you and your family my dear friend, always enjoy your blog post.
Wishing you many more years of happy blogging. By the way french apple tart looks delicious.
Beauty Follower says
Wonderful tart!
Have fun dear 🙂
What's Baking?? says
wow.. this is the most beautiful pie i've ever seen.. and i like your new blog look too.
Tanya Walton says
Dear Catherine, I am so happy that I get to say happy blogoversary to you. I am so glad that not long after I started blogging I stumbled across your blog as I have learnt many wonderful recipes and enjoyed reading all of your other posts too.
Keep doing exactly what you are doing. xx
Allie Roomberg says
This is such a beautiful tart, and such a beautiful post! I think it's wonderful that you started blogging because of your son's encouragement. And that you want to do it for your children! So heartwarming. Congratulations on your anniversary and keep up the incredible work. <3
Lois says
Your blog has grown into a beautiful creation! Thank you for sharing your memories and your AMAZING apple tart with Foodie Friends Friday. You have been a part of our linky party since the start and we thank you! Enjoy the celebration!
Living the Gourmet says
Thank you so much, Lois! You have been such a kind and supportive friend...it is always a joy to join FFF each week and celebrate.
I am so blessed to have met you and discover your blog. Have a beautiful Sunday dear friend. Blessings, Catherine xo
the caked crusader says
Wow - what a gorgeous tart; it looks like an exotic flower!
Judy says
Thanks for coming and linking up at The Weekend Social. Please be sure to come back next week starting Thursdays at 9PM EST The Midnight Baker ! I hope to see you there!
Judy@ http://www.bakeatmidnite.com
Liz says
Happy anniversary to your blog!! I'm so happy both I've gotten to know both you and Tammy through your blogs...and we're all blessed that Michael urged you to start Living the Gourmet! xoxo
P.S. Your tart is gorgeous!!
Monique says
The pie is beautiful and the words beautifully authentic.
So true how our blogs help us through things..even if we never mention them.
The kindness of fellow bloggers is so appreciated.
Happy anniversary.
Christine says
It was so touching to read about how important blogging has been in your life. Happy blogiversary, and here's to many more! I've been in a French tart mood myself:) This is simply gorgeous! Thanks for linking up at #FoodieFridays.
Kim says
Happy blog anniversary!!!! 6 years???? It's a lot of time ! And this tart is absolute beauty, Catherine!
Mummy Whiskers says
WOW such a beautiful apple tart, I couldn't bear to cut into it f I had made it! Congratulations on six years blogging too #recipeoftheweek
Jerry E. Beuterbaugh says
I still think you should try to get on Food Network's Chopped. With you being fairly local, they might be very receptive to having you on an episode featuring chefs in cyberspace.
Living the Gourmet says
Haha Jerry I get the biggest kick out of all your comments. You are awesome!!
Thanks for stopping by and have a great day friend 🙂
-Tammy
Jerry E. Beuterbaugh says
P.S.: Furthermore, if you win the $10,000.00 on Chopped, you could show me just how appreciative you are of me being such a supportive friend all of these years!
Kate @ Veggie Desserts says
Happy blogiversary! A beautiful tart for a beautiful story. #Recipeoftheweek
Sherry says
That is just beautiful! Happy anniversary!
nipponnin says
Happy Anniversary! This post is very touching, lovely and sweet. Thank you for sharing your story, recipe and life with us. You're very special lady!
The apple tart is so pretty! So elegantly presented.
Lisa @ Cooking with Curls says
Congratulations!! I created my blog for the same reason, and I hope to still be around for 6 years. You have such a wonderful blog, and that tart is mouthwatering! Cheers to many more years. 🙂
Jayashree says
Happy Blogversary great going...and awesome recipe
Kyla @HouseOfHipsters says
Wow! This looks almost too pretty to eat! Happy Bloggoversary! Found you on the Three Mango Seeds link up =)
rattlebridge farm -- foodie friday says
Happy Anniversary! Your recipe will be included in Wednesday/Thursday's Foodie Friday features. Have a great week!
Living the Gourmet says
Thank you so much, Michael! I can't wait! Have a wonderful evening.
Rachel says
Happy anniversary on your blog! I really need to back up my blog recipes somewhere so my children can have them as well. Your pictures are beautiful and I would love to make an apple tart as lovely as your daughters. Visiting from Merry Monday.
Nicky says
Happy Blogiversary! I found you at the Simple Supper Tuesday party. This is a beautiful dessert. Congrats on 6 years and the best of luck toyou in the future.
mila furman says
Well happy blogiversary! And on this absolutely gorgeous dessert! I love a good apple pie! And yours looks to die for! Thanks for coming by and linking with us at #FoodieFridays! You have been pinned 🙂
Daphne says
Good Morning Catherine, Congratulations on your 6 years of blogging. I love visiting your blog, because I always find something lovely to add to my recipe list.
...... and today is no exception. Your daughter's French Apple Tart looks beautiful and one I will make when my daughters visit me, as I know they will love it.
Have a wonderful day.
Best Wishes to you.
Daphne
Heidy @TheMccallumsShamrockPatch says
I would like to invite you to attend our weekly #PureBlogLove Recipe and DIY craft party this week. Runs 8pm Thursdays-Sunday at midnight EST. I hope to see you there! I adore your blog!
Heidy
Michelle @ A Dish of Daily Life says
That is STUNNING! I am in awe! Pinning! Thank you so much for linking it up with us at Foodie Fridays, hope to see you again tonight! Congrats on your blogiversary too!
Kitty says
Happy Blogiversary!!!!! The tart is simply a work of art! It's almost too pretty to eat, but I'd love a slice.
mila furman says
I liked this so much that you my dear are included in my #FoodieFriday roundup!!! Thank you for linking with us and giving me something to drool after 🙂
agapanto67 says
AUGURI!!!! happy birthday for your blog.!!!!
Chaya says
Happy Blogaversary and thank you so much for posting for the rest of us. Your blog is beautiful and has always brought wonderful recipes. Now with Midnight Musings, you have added a new and wondrous element for all of us to enjoy. To many more years of sharing.
grazia says
Auguri per il compleanno del tuo blog..E' stato il giorno anche del mio compleanno,,Lovely your recipe,,
I want prepare this cake!!
Kissess!!
Yelena says
This is so unique. I can't wait to make this with my daughter. It looks so magnificent.
Michelle says
Beautiful tart.
A very happy 6 years to Living the Gourmet!
David says
You have a very nice blog, look like its your passion,
Keep sharing with us,
The Tart looks great!
Miz Helen says
Hi Catherine,
Happy 6 years of Blogging! May I congratulate you on having a very beautiful blog where I can always count on quality content and beautiful presentations, I am excited to continue the journey with you!
Your beautiful French Apple Tart looks amazing. Hope you are having a great fall day and thanks so much for sharing this awesome post with Full Plate Thursday.
Come Back Soon!
Miz Helen
Madonna says
What a gorgeous tart. A+ for presentation.
Madonna
Trish says
I am featuring this lovely dessert at The Southern Special next linky party. Thanks for sharing it.
Arman @ thebigmansworld says
What a beautiful looking tart, Catherine- I love apple flavoured desserts and this fits the bill!
Aimee @ ShugarySweets says
WOW 6 years!! Congrats on your milestone. This apple tart is gorgeous and the perfect way to celebrate 🙂
Carrie @Frugal Foodie Mama says
This tart is absolutely beautiful! What a perfect way to celebrate 6 years of blogging. 🙂 Isn't it amazing how our blogs become so much more than we ever thought that they would be? <3
Christina @ Christina's Cucina says
Congratulations, Catherine! That's a big milestone and your apple tart is simply gorgeous! I am now inspired to make a similar tart or tartlets, myself! I usually only see these at high end bakeries! Thanks so much!