It’s still getting into the 90s here in Houston pretty much every day but I haven’t been holding off on my autumn inspired baking and cooking. I’ll admit it’s funny to see little pumpkins and bouquets of sage and thyme decorating the small table in my kitchen and then walk outside just to be punched in the face by heat and humidity. And I literally mean punched in the face. It’s rather overwhelming.
But then again, I can’t control the weather and there’s no use trying because it just ends up a waste of time. It’s sort of like how I’ve been wanting to change things about the past and letting past decisions upset me. Try as I might I can’t change the past. None of us can (unless maybe you are the Doctor). I have to keep reminding myself there’s no use dwelling on the past because I miss out on being present in my life. I’ve found that presence is key. It’s what allows me to appreciate a cool morning walk or the sweetness of a morning ritual. Or, in this case, a freshly baked boule laced with the scent of earthy sage, pecans, and cardamom.
I had forgotten how much I loved sage until I picked some up this past weekend. I love the velvety feel of the leaves and the sweetly pungent and intoxicating aroma it gives off. It evokes memories of holidays and family dinners, the table filled to the brim with steaming dishes. I’ve been finding the scent very grounding and comforting. Lately I’ve noticed myself gravitating towards grounding scents and foods. Perhaps it’s because I need to be tethered down to the earth so that I can focus and learn.
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I’ve come to realize recently how much of my mood is affected by the weather. Has anyone else noticed this about themselves? I’ve always liked certain types of weather and seasons but lately I’ve noticed how much I thrive when I enjoy what’s going on outside. It has been so damn humid and disgusting in Houston over the past week that I haven’t even wanted to spend any time outside. To be honest, that is really hard for me because I love being outside. I find so much inspiration and renewal in nature so being holed up indoors has been a bit draining. And if I’m being totally honest, slightly depressing.
Since fall inspires me and lights me up, I’m bidding farewell to summer and sharing something I’ve been dreaming about making for months. These scones are actually an iteration of the first ones I sold at the farmers market back in Longview. Since I’ve left that part of me behind (at least for now), I decided to share the recipe with you here because who doesn’t want a gluten free/vegan scone recipe in their arsenal?! And, because I’ve been wanting to make it since seeing these 2 beautiful squashes in my CSA share , I’ve paired the scones with a homemade spiced butternut squash butter. It’s like apple butter’s quirky cousin with a whole lot of personality. If you don’t want to make your own puree like I did, you can buy some at the store or just sub in sweet potato or pumpkin puree for similar and delicious results. I’m ready for you fall!!