All Things Pumpkin
It seems like every year, pumpkin spice lattes and pumpkin spice everything gets even more popular than before.
It’s not just the coffee anymore; you see pumpkin spice being used in everything from brownies and cookies to savory and sweet recipes.
So, what is pumpkin spice?
Here is some information about the spice and how you can make it and use it:
Pumpkin Spice is Simply a Combination of Spices
A common question asked about pumpkin spice is – what exactly is it? You might see a spice bottle labeled either as ‘pumpkin spice’ or ‘pumpkin pie spice’, both of which are probably either exactly the same or very similar.
There is no 100% accurate combination of spices in pumpkin spice, as it is simply a mix of traditional seasonal spices. This is when you have spices like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Continue reading
If you are interested in using pumpkin for more of your healthy meals this fall, why not make your own puree?
This can save money and is the cleanest option since nothing is processed and packaged. It is actually a lot simpler than you might think.
Choosing and Prepping the Pumpkin
Before you get to making your pumpkin puree, you have a few preparation steps to begin with. This starts with selecting the right pumpkin.
Keep in mind you are going to be roasting the pumpkin in the oven after cutting it in half or into quarters, so you need it to be small enough to fit properly. It is better to go with multiple smaller pumpkins than just one massive pumpkin, or it is difficult to cut and roast.
After selecting your pumpkin, cut them in half and remove the pulp and seeds from the center. Keep the seeds in a separate bowl if you intend to roast them later. Continue reading
When you are looking for a healthy way to put together meals or desserts in the fall, you might think about pumpkin.
While you can definitely roast a pumpkin and make your own puree, this isn’t necessary every time.
There is nothing wrong with using canned pumpkin as a more convenience option.
The following methods show you just how many ways there are to use canned pumpkin.
Make Your Own Yogurt Bowl
Smoothie bowls have been extremely popular lately, but you can go another direction by simply having a yogurt bowl. It is very similar to a smoothie bowl, though often contains less ingredients and is creamier. You are not using the acai powder often found in traditional smoothie bowls.
With a yogurt bowl, it is healthy, delicious, and really easy to make. Start with your favorite type of yogurt or Greek yogurt, and add in some pumpkin puree. Choose any fruits and nuts you want in the bowl, add all the ingredients to the blender, and grind it up. Pour it into a bowl and top it how you like. Continue reading
There are many drinks that use pumpkin, from smoothies to pumpkin chai tea, but don’t forget about your pumpkin spice latte!
You can make your own version at home that is similar to Starbucks, or try some other varieties. Take a look at these coffee drinks that use pumpkin or pumpkin spice in the recipe.
Pumpkin Spice Latte
Naturally, the classic pumpkin spice latte is going to be on the list! This is actually not as fattening as you might think, and depending on the ingredients you use, can actually be lower in sugar and calories than the ones you get at coffee shops like Starbucks. Plus, you are saving money and time by making it at home.
You first need pumpkin puree, which you can either make at home by putting the flesh of pumpkin in a food processor, or by using the pure canned pumpkin. Add to that vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, coffee, and a little bit of milk. Continue reading
