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There's something magical about creating a dessert from ingredients you've grown with your own hands. As winter settles in and the last of our New Zealand Boer pumpkins sit proudly on the kitchen counter, there's no better time to transform these golden treasures into the ultimate comfort dessert – homemade pumpkin pie.


This year, we decided to try our hand at growing New Zealand Boer pumpkins in our garden. These beautiful, robust pumpkins are perfect for our climate and, as we discovered, absolutely divine in pies. Watching them grow from tiny seedlings to magnificent orange globes was a journey in itself – one that made every bite of our winter pies taste even sweeter.


The Boer pumpkin's dense, sweet flesh and smooth texture make it ideal for baking. Unlike some varieties that can be watery or stringy, these pumpkins hold their own beautifully in desserts, creating that perfect creamy consistency we all crave in a good pumpkin pie.


Preparing Your Garden Pumpkin


Before we dive into Mrs. J. Braun's treasured recipe (discovered in an old cookbook and too good not to share), you'll need to prepare your pumpkin. Cut your Boer pumpkin in half and roast the halves cut-side down at 200°C for about 45 minutes, or until the flesh is tender. Once cooled, scoop out the flesh and either mash by hand for a rustic texture or blend until smooth for that silky finish.


Garden-to-Table Pumpkin Pie


Ingredients:

  • 2 cups fresh roasted Boer pumpkin puree

  • 2 eggs

  • ¾ cup sugar

  • 1 tsp. cinnamon

  • ½ tsp. ginger

  • ½ tsp. nutmeg

  • ½ tsp. salt

  • 1 cup milk

  • 2 tbsp. flour

For the homemade crust:

  • 1¼ cups flour

  • ¼ tsp salt

  • ½ tsp sugar

  • ¼ cup ice water

  • ½ cup cold butter


The Method


Start with your pie crust – there's something deeply satisfying about making it from scratch when you've already invested so much love into growing your main ingredient. Mix the flour, salt, and sugar, then work in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until the dough comes together. Roll it out and line your pie dish with care.


For the filling, whisk together your garden-fresh pumpkin puree with the eggs until smooth. In a separate bowl, combine all the dry spices – the cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt. There's something about the aroma of these warming spices that instantly makes any kitchen feel like home on a cold winter's day.


Gradually fold the spice mixture into your pumpkin base, then slowly incorporate the milk and flour. The mixture should be smooth and velvety, carrying the essence of your garden and the promise of cozy evenings ahead.


Pour this golden mixture into your unbaked pie shell. Bake at 200°C for 10 minutes, then reduce the heat to 160°C and continue baking for another 25 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.


The Perfect Winter Moment


As your pie bakes, your home will fill with the most incredible aroma – one that speaks of harvest time, family gatherings, and the simple pleasure of creating something beautiful from the earth.


Serve your garden-to-table pumpkin pie with a dollop of fresh cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.


There's no better way to celebrate the fruits of your labor and welcome the cozy winter months ahead. After all, the best ingredients don't come from the store – they come from the heart, the hands (and in this case) the humble patch of earth in your own backyard.


What's your favourite way to use homegrown produce in winter desserts? We'd love to hear about your garden-to-table recipes!


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As the leaves turn golden and cool evenings set in, there's no better time to gather your closest friends for an intimate autumn celebration. Seasonal gatherings offer you a perfect opportunity to slow down, connect deeply with those you cherish, and enjoy the abundant harvest that autumn brings.


Creating Your Seasonal Table


Want to set a memorable scene for your guests? Take inspiration from nature's changing palette. Try adorning your table with scattered golden leaves, small pumpkins, and flickering candles to create a warm, inviting atmosphere that honors the season. These simple decorations immediately signal to your guests that they're in for a special evening.


Consider setting up outdoors if the weather permits—there's something magical about dining under the early autumn stars as the season transitions. The natural backdrop of changing leaves provides the perfect setting for meaningful conversations and connection.


Planning Your Harvest Menu


The beauty of autumn entertaining is that the season's bounty does most of the work for you. Consider a potluck approach, inviting each friend to bring a dish that celebrates fall flavors. Your menu might include:


- Freshly baked sourdough bread

- A rocket salad with parmesan and walnuts

- Roasted seasonal vegetables

- A signature autumn cocktail or mulled cider


For your main dish, why not showcase the quintessential autumn ingredient—pumpkin? The creamy pumpkin pasta recipe below has been tested at our recent gathering and was an absolute hit. It's comfort food at its finest and comes together in less than 30 minutes, letting you focus on your guests rather than spending hours in the kitchen.


The Perfect Autumn Main Dish: Creamy Pumpkin Pasta


This pasta transforms humble ingredients into something truly special—much like how gathering with friends transforms an ordinary evening into a cherished memory.


Ingredients:

* 8 ounces pasta

* 1/4 cup olive oil

* 2 teaspoons minced garlic

* 1 cup pumpkin purée (use fresh if you can—simply roast and blend)

* 2 Tablespoons milk

* 1 Tablespoon white wine vinegar

* 3/4 cup vegetable broth

* Salt and pepper to taste

* 3-4 leaves fresh sage (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)

* 1/2 cup grated parmesan

* 2 cups spinach

* 1/4 cup chopped walnuts


Instructions:

1. Cook your pasta according to package directions.

2. Meanwhile, over medium heat, cook olive oil and garlic in a saucepan for 2-3 minutes.

3. Add pumpkin, milk, vinegar, broth, salt, and pepper.

4. Whisk and simmer for about 5 minutes.

5. Add sage and parmesan, then simmer for 2-3 minutes more.

6. Remove from heat and stir in spinach until it wilts.

7. Mix in the cooked pasta until well coated.

8. Top with walnuts, extra parmesan, and garnish with fresh sage leaves.


Embracing Autumn Connection


There's something about autumn that naturally draws us toward deeper connections. As you gather with your friends, you might notice conversations becoming more reflective and meaningful—matching the season's inward energy.


Female friendships in particular seem to flourish during this transitional time. When women gather around a harvest table, sharing food and stories, a special kind of nurturing magic happens. Give yourself permission to be fully present in these moments.


Your Invitation to Seasonal Gathering


Remember, the most memorable gatherings aren't about perfection—they're about creating a warm, welcoming space where connections can flourish. You don't need elaborate decorations or a complicated menu to create something special.


A few simple candles, some fallen leaves from your yard, and a pot of something delicious simmering on the stove are all you need. Add friends, and you have all the ingredients for an evening that will nourish both body and soul.


This autumn, why not send out those invitations you've been thinking about? Gather your favorite people, share a meal, and create memories that will warm your heart long after the season has passed.


*Recipe credit: Christine McMichael from Jar of Lemons*

*Images by the talented Nectar Photography*


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*What autumn gathering will you host this season? Need more seasonal inspiration? Join our mailing list for monthly seasonal living ideas delivered straight to your inbox!*


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Sometimes life gets busy and expensive, or maybe you've got little ones at home and can't find a sitter. Whatever your reason for staying in this Valentine's Day, we've got you covered. Here's our guide to creating an intimate evening that might just become your new favourite tradition.


Chess & Candlelight


There's something intimate about a quiet game night. Set up a chess board (or any board game you love), light your favourite candle, and let the evening unfold naturally. Add some soft music, maybe that playlist you've been saving, and watch how time slows down.


While chess is a classic, here are some simple card games perfect for two:


  • Rummy - A perfect blend of strategy and luck. Keep score across multiple games and make it a tournament [how to play]

  • Speed - For when you want something fast-paced and playful [how to play]

  • Golf - Four cards each, simple rules, but surprisingly strategic [how to play]


Living Room Picnic


Transform your everyday space into something extraordinary. Spread a soft blanket on the floor, gather some simple treats (think fresh bread, good cheese, whatever makes you happy), and create your own little sanctuary. The key is keeping it simple and intentional. A few candles, some comfortable cushions, and suddenly your living room becomes the most inviting spot in town.


Stargazing from Your Window


Sometimes the most romantic moments are the simplest ones. Make your favourite hot drinks, grab cosy blankets, and turn off all the lights except for the candle glow. Whether you have a city view full of twinkling lights or a window to the stars, there's something magical about sharing the night sky together.


Setting the Mood


A few touches to make your evening even more special:


  • Choose a candle that sets the right atmosphere - or spray your favourite room spray before you setup

  • Create a playlist ahead of time

  • If you don't have a fireplace or it's warm where you are, try adding the "Cosy Fireplace" Youtube loop on your tv for a little extra ambiance

  • Keep phones on silent

  • Have some blankets ready

  • Prepare any snacks in advance


A Little Gift From Us


We've created some minimal Valentine's cards for you to download and share. Print them at home, write something special, and add them to your evening's setup. Because sometimes the simplest words mean the most.





Remember, the goal isn't perfection - it's creating space for connection. Sometimes the most memorable dates are the ones where nothing goes quite as planned, but you're together, and that's what matters.


To help create your perfect evening in, we're offering free shipping on all large candles until February 14th with code "BeMine".


Order by February 8th for guaranteed Valentine's delivery.


XO,

Beth

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