"Apple Pie" Spiced Applesauce

Sometimes the simplest things to make are the ones I would never think of trying to make homemade. Applesauce for instance, up until it a few days ago it never crossed my mind to try and make it at home. I mean, its as simple as simmering apples in a blend of sugar, water and whatever spices you like- pretty easy. 

I was terribly sick last week and Josh had surgery (everythings ok!), we both needed something cold and refreshing for our sore throats so why not make applesauce? It's moderately healthy and oh-so yummy!

I also played around with spices a little bit and instead of doing a traditional apple sauce, I thought it would be fun to make it taste like apple pie. A little cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, & vanilla and all I was missing was the crust.

Homemade Twix with Salted Caramel

As a child, Twix were always my favorite candy. I would always eat the chocolate and the caramel off the top first, and then save the cookie for last. That way it made me think they were more than just a candy bar, but a cookie AND a candy bar in one! Nostalgia got the best of me one day and I decided search for a recipe. This was the winner because of the addition of ground rice, which gives a crunch to the shortbread just like the store-bought ones. But after tasting these scratch-made twix, I don't think I'll ever want to eat a store-bought one again. The caramel alone from this recipe is SO delicious, you could literally put it on anything and it would still be amazing.

These would be great to take to a party, wrap up individually as gifts, or even just to have around the house to snack on for the week. They are a little time consuming with the 3 different layers that need time bake, set, and cool. The caramel is gooey even after it "sets" so I would recommend popping them in the freezer for 15 minutes before cutting, or letting them chill in the fridge overnight. Making these a day ahead is definitely the way to go.