It's autumn.  Late autumn, to be specific.  It's gray and cold outside, the garden is put to bed for the winter, and we drink hot beverages all day to keep our hands warm.  Most importantly, it's time to bake comfort foods. The holiday season will be here before we know it, but first, let's enjoy these calm and quiet, if a little bleak, days.  I'm doing this by hanging some leaves, brewing some coffee, and getting into the kitchen for some baking. I started my baking with this pear caramel cake. It’s the perfect thing for November.