Long overdue update
It’s been a while since our last round-up — our most recent one was back in May. Lately we’ve been sharing weekly photo highlights on social media, so this update is long overdue here on the blog. If you’re new, this series shares what we’ve been up to beyond Skandibaking: cooking, baking, exploring, reading, visiting new places, and small everyday moments that spark inspiration. Usually these posts cover the past week, but this one collects several weeks’ worth of photos and experiences, with plenty of autumn ideas sprinkled throughout.
1. Autumn things to do: Apple baking!
Apple season has been inspiring a lot of baking here — it’s the quintessential autumn ingredient. Recently we’ve posted recipes for making apple butter at home, apple-butter thumbprint cookies, and apple-cinnamon streusel muffins. We also made a full-length video tutorial on how to make æblesnegle (apple-cinnamon rolls), which walks through the dough, filling, and shaping so you can try them at home. Expect even more cozy apple-forward recipes as the season continues.
2. Easy and nutritious breakfasts
With a new Skandibaker in the family — Sofie had a baby over the summer — mornings can be hectic, so make-ahead breakfasts have been essential. Kodiak Cakes muffin and pancake mixes have been a reliable shortcut for quick breakfasts and snacks that last the week. Smoothie bowls are another favorite: they’re tasty, filling, and easy to pack with nutritious toppings. One of our go-to toppings right now is a chocolate granola that adds crunch and depth.
3. Walks along the canals in Birmingham
Autumn in Birmingham has been beautiful — and occasionally rainy, which is part of its charm. Living near the canals means my usual walk follows the water instead of winding through a park. The canal routes are wonderfully versatile: they can lead into the city center for shopping and dining, out toward quieter neighborhoods, or simply provide a scenic stretch for fresh air and daily steps. Strolling along the canals is one of my favorite autumn rituals.
4. Trying out new snacks and drinks
I’m a sucker for new product releases from big brands — not because I always expect them to be great, but because trying new flavors is fun and fleeting. In the UK the variety can be limited compared to other places, so when something interesting appears I’m likely to give it a try. Lately I sampled Lindt Lindor’s pistachio truffles, which were delicious, and an Oreo-flavored cola that wasn’t quite my thing. Tasting new snacks is a low-stakes way to explore trends and find new favorites.
5. Chinese and Greek food – two of our favorites!
Recently I enjoyed both Chinese and Greek meals in Birmingham — two cuisines I always appreciate. The Chinese meal leaned more toward British-Chinese style rather than authentic regional fare, but it still scratched the craving for familiar textures and flavors. The Greek meal was delicious; next time I’d like to try beyond gyros and dips to sample more of the menu. We’re a bit picky with these cuisines: we lived in Greece as kids, and I studied in Beijing for several months, so we have high standards. Still, sometimes a tasty, comforting meal is exactly what you want, and these restaurants delivered.
Thanks for reading!
Thanks for joining this longer-than-usual round-up from the past few months. We’re slowly getting back into a regular posting rhythm at Skandibaking, so expect more content soon. What have you been enjoying lately? Share in the comments — we’d love to hear and try your recommendations.