November was the month for Visitors. In fact, I think there were only a couple of days in total that our guest room was free. It was fantastic.

One thing about Visitors: they often expect Pies. Even the smallest ones.

When you see these items in your kitchen, it’s time to get excited. A Caramel Apple-Pecan Pie is likely on the way.

A total of 40 caramels are required for this pie. I love the saltiness of Trader Joe’s Fleur de Sel caramels, so I used those. No regrets. When I first read the recipe, I thought I was going to have to unwrap and chop each caramel into quarters. Then I realized that I only had to cut up ten of them…the ones that go into the pie crust…and I stopped banging my head against the wall.

This isn’t the fastest pie ever to make (1. Pastry 2. Apple Caramel Filling 3. Pecan Crumb Topping 4. Caramel and Pecans) so be forewarned. 1000% worth it, though.

Would you look at that beauty?!

There are few things I enjoy more than a table full of good food, friends and family. And this night was especially special because it’s not often that I get a table full of New Jersey all the way in California.

Mike works for M&M’s/Mars, so his taste in sweets is impeccable.

His face here says, “I am Mike Robinson, and I approve of this pie.”

Even Obi tried to get his paws on a slice. Little rapscallion.