cff March 2015 | Simple and Serene Living

Saturday, March 7, 2015

SMALL SPACE LIVING: BASKETS FOR STORAGE

I think it is possible that I may have a major addiction to baskets. In fact, my last thought before I fell asleep last night was that I want to learn how to make rag baskets. (I know, don't be jealous of my exciting life)

Using baskets can be a perfect solution for storage in a small space. They are not only useful, but make perfect accent pieces in your decor.

Baskets are a great idea as you enter your home. You can drop your mail in them or stow away shoes, gloves, and scarves.

entry hall baskets
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I have to admit that I never thought about using baskets in the refrigerator, but I wish someone would organize and stock mine like this.

refigerator organization
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In the kitchen, baskets can be great space savers for organizing condiments and utensils,

baskets kitchen
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or holding produce.

produce baskets
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Baskets can be tucked into so many places in a small space decor.

cottage chic decor
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I may or may not have fallen in love with the last image.

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Friday, March 6, 2015

NOT YOUR MOTHER'S APPLE PIE RECIPE

After yesterday's record snowfall here in Central Kentucky, I am feeling a bit housebound. It's a very cold morning, and although the sun is shining in a brilliant blue sky, my car is surrounded by snow, making it difficult for me to get out. 



Seemed like the perfect time to pull some ingredients together and make an apple pie. For those of you who have followed me for a while, you know that I am gluten free and eat organic, so I had to see what I could find in my pantry and refrigerator.


gluten free apple crumb pie recipe

I love when it's ready to pop in the oven because I know the whole apartment will smell wonderful.

The original recipe that my mom and I cooked is from an old Better Homes and Gardens cookbook. While we are waiting for it to come out of the oven, here is my tweaked version.

Gluten Free Apple Crumb Pie.

5-7 tart organic apples (5 cups)
1  9-inch unbaked gluten free pie shell
1/2 cup organic sugar
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/3 cup organic sugar
3/4 cup all purpose rice flour blend
6 tablespoons organic butter

Pare apples: core and cut in eighths. Arrange in unbaked pastry shell. Mix 1/2 cup sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle over apples. 

Mix 1/3 cup sugar with the flour; cut in butter till crumbly. Sprinkle over apples. Bake at 400 degrees for 35-40 minutes until done. If pie browns too quickly, cover edge with foil. Cool. Pass whipped cream.

This just might chase away those winter blues. 


gluten free apple crumb pie

Oops, I forgot the whipped cream. If you'll stop by the market and pick some up I'll save you a piece of the pie.