With the changing of the leaves, the crisper air, and the re-emergence of sweaters and boots, comes a palette of fall flavors that excite the taste buds just thinking about them. Say hello to warm spices, pumpkin, caramel, squash, pecans, pears, and apples. When you start seeing these ingredients and seasonal products in the grocery stores, it usually inspires you to get cooking…baking in particular. (At least that’s how it goes in my house.) Whether you’re doing a trial run for Thanksgiving dinner or just providing cozy fall family meals or treats, you’ll find all the supplies you need at JCPenney to help you achieve that roasted or baked perfection.
Mix It Up
There’s just something about stirring together wet and dry ingredients and then watching the mixture rise in the oven, giving off fragrant aromas that warm the soul. My kids know fall has arrived when I start whipping up batches of pumpkin chocolate chip muffins. They’re a perfect quick before-school breakfast as well as an afternoon snack. Baking a dozen extra allows you to wrap up some in cute baskets and share it with the neighbors. In fact, baking for others is one of my favorite things to do. Sharing homemade goodies is just so heartwarming to both the giver and the receiver.
Start any batter off with a good set of mixing bowls. A variety of sizes will be needed throughout your baking career. Measuring cups ensures the right amount goes into each recipe. Baking is a precise art. Too much or too little can cause baked goods to rise too much or not enough.
Pan Power
No matter what you’re wanting to bake, there’s a pan that’ll help it come outright. Cookies sheets, loaf pans, pie pans, or cake pans are all ready to be of assistance. Aluminum pans are what the pros pick for their quick heat-up and even baking. Glass pans are visible windows into the inner beauty of your items. This attractive option also does not stain or absorb food odors. Nonstick pans are good choices for even novices. They require less oil and the finished product releases from the pan easier. Find well-known brands like Taste of Home and Nordicware at JCPenney for a slew of choices. Specialty pans like Bundt pans or cakelette pans let you make the presentation as good looking as it tastes. Seasonal designs can include pumpkins, leaves, or gingerbread.
Taste of Home 2-pc. Non-Stick Metal Baking Sheet Set 15×10 and 17×11 |
Sip Your Way Through Fall
Another way to know that the season is changing? The re-introduction of seasonal drinks at restaurants and coffee shops. Coffee in particular has a cult-like following of devotees who line up as soon as they can for their particular favorite drink. Why not try savoring your own beverage at home? Yes, you can be a barista too. JCPenney’s Coffee Shop collection brews up tons of options to give a single serving or grande-sized jolt of java. Go purist by grinding your own beans or quick by using K-Cups®. Either way, the satisfaction you’ll feel at making your own frothy, warm concoction is pure bliss. Feeling adventurous? Try making a pumpkin spice latte recipe at home.
It’s the little things lately that we have to look forward to. Fall baking is definitely high on the list for us. Adorn your house with festive fall accessories and linens to fully embrace the season. Then, share your pics with us by tagging #AllAtJCP. Then follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to see if you are featured.