Brews & Bakes: The Perfect Blend of Autumn Baking and Coffee

Aromatic Allure:

Autumn baking is synonymous with rich tapestry of spices, from cinnamon and nutmeg to cloves and ginger. The aromatic delights of freshly baked pumpkin bread or spiced apple muffins harmonize beautifully with the earthy, comforting scent of brewing coffee. Together, they create an aromatic masterpiece that sets the tone for autumn.

Balancing Act:

The sweetness of autumn treats often finds its perfect counterpart in the bitterness of coffee. Whether you prefer a steaming cup of black coffee or a velvety latte, the contrast between the flavors enhances each element. The coffee's bitterness balances the sweetness of baked goods, creating a harmonious blend of tastes.

Warmth and Comfort:

Both baking and coffee preparation involve elements of warmth and comfort. The heat of the oven and the cozy ambiance of the kitchen mirror the soothing feeling of cradling a warm cup of coffee. These rituals become a source of solace as the days grow shorter and cooler.

Versatile Pairings:

Autumn baking and coffee offer a world of pairing possibilities. Pair a hearty slice of apple pie with a caramel macchiato for a sweet and indulgent experience. For a more subtle combination, a lightly roasted coffee complements the delicate flavors of a pear tart. The versatility of coffee allows you to customize your pairing to suit your mood and the specific dessert.

Coffee Enhances the Experience:

Coffee is not just a beverage; it's an enhancer. It elevates the flavors of your baked goods, unlocking hidden nuances and making each bite even more enjoyable. The interplay between the two intensifies the overall experience of savoring autumn treats.

Perfect for Socializing:

Autumn is a time for gatherings, and the pairing of autumn baking and coffee is perfect for hosting friends and family. Serve a platter of freshly baked goodies alongside a coffee station with various brews and toppings, and watch as your guests savor the seasonal delights and warm conversations.

And so you see...these two beloved companions come together to create an experience that awakens the senses, warms the soul, and celebrates the cozy essence of the season, wouldn't you agree? I bet you're dying to get to baking while sipping on your favorite coffee drink!

Now...onto the recipe!

This is my take on LorAnn Oils recipe for Pumpkin Pie Blondies. I wanted to create a recipe that had the flavors of my favorite fall drink, the Pumpkin Spice Latte. I'm really happy with the results of this recipe and I think you'll like it too. These bars are versatile for non-coffee drinkers too because all of the coffee flavor is in the topping. If you're a coffee lover, like me, you can add some of the espresso powder to the bars too -- I did! - about 1 teaspoon.

This recipe also uses a favorite ingredient of my (which I happen to sell on my website, here). If you're unfamiliar with baking emulsions, here's some info:

I've really grown to love using baking emulsions rather than extracts. Baking emulsions are great because the flavors don't "bake out" like sometimes they do with extracts. This is because baking emulsions are water-based, unlike alcohol based extracts. Water doesn't evaporate as quickly as alcohol, which results in a more robust flavor in your baked goods. The best part is that you can easily swap any extract with a baking emulsion without using any more or any less! 1 teaspoon extract = 1 teaspoon baking emulsion