From tree to crumble, and other adventures.

Montreal autumns are driving me nuts.

I don't know whether it's the smell of falling leaves, the chillier weather making me crave comforts, or simply having a kitchen and people to cook for again, but I am churning out baked goods like a mad woman.

This morning we went apple picking about an hour out of the city near Laval. Sadly the season was close to over so we didn't officially get to pick a full bag (though a fair few limbs were climbed to rescue the last remaining few on the trees), but it was a spectacular day none the less. I tried a maple cider that blew my mind completely, and ate probably the best doughnut I've ever tasted.

Upon returning home, 5lbs of apples in hand, I thought it fit to put the pie dish my housemate gifted me - possible ulterior motive, there? - to good use and make the ultimate spiced crumble, complete with candied apple peel garnish.

Other recent baking adventures after the jump.

Tarte à la citrouille

The past 3 weeks I have been living on the couch of some of the nicest, most genuine people I've ever met.

Arriving in a city where you know no-one can be a challenge at the best of times. Throw in an elaborate Craigslist housing scam, a language you don't speak being prerequisite to most employment opportunities, and just enough adventures and new friends to make you addicted to the place, and it can be damn near impossible.

It's been a tough month. But I'm pleased to inform not only do I now have a house and a job, but a circle of friends I know I'll keep even when oceans get in the way again.

This weekend is Thanksgiving in Canada. A concept as foreign as I am, and an excuse to bake as many Fall related items as humanly possible. The first? Pumpkin pie with candied walnuts and maple whipped cream.

For Jade, Jenn, Hailey, Matt, and all the people - both here and across continents - who are making Montreal a home away from others.

xCB