Pumpkin Spice Lattes. Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino. Pumpkin Spice Doughnuts. Pumpkin Spice Granola Bars. Pumpkin Spice Protein Powder. The list is endless, but so are the artificial flavors and ingredients they contain. The big coffee shops make you think that their pumpkin spice infused beverage is a limited time treat but the side effects from the caramel coloring and high levels of sugar are not limited and are certainly not a treat! The good news is that you can indulge in the fabulous flavors of fall without all the chemicals and artificial flavors. In fact pumpkin spices are actually good for you!
Cinnamon is not only tasty but prized for its many healing properties. It is loaded with anitoxidants and is a powerful anti-inflammatory spice. Cinnamon is proven to lower blood sugar and reduce the risk of heart disease. There is a connection between this rich spice and improvements with Parkinson and Alzheimer patients. And with cold and flu season upon us cinnamon plays an important role for its anti-bacterial properties, helping to fight infection.
Ginger is another big player in the pumpkin spice frenzy. Like cinnamon, ginger has many potent medicinal properties. It is most commonly used for reducing all sorts of inflammation in the body. It is also linked to lowering blood sugar and reducing the risk of heart disease. Studies have shown that ginger significantly decreases bad cholesterol in our bodies. Cancer research is showing ginger prevents certain types of cancer. Like cinnamon, it also improves brain function and protects against Alzheimer disease. Ginger is a powerhouse of healing properties!
The bad news is, your Pumpkin Spice Frap is unlikely to contain any real cinnamon or ginger or just trace amounts mixed in with that caramel coloring, high fructose corn syrup, carrageenan, diglycerides, "natural" flavors and more. The good news is making pumpkin spice treats at home is easy! My family's favorite is Pumpkin Spice Muffins. They taste like all the amazing fall flavors, are packed full of nutritious ingredients, are vegan, gluten free and will be devoured because they are so yummy! Read the recipe below.
Pumpkin Spice Muffins
1 cup organic pumpkin puree
1/2 cup almond (or any nondairy milk)
1 tablespoon vanilla
3 tablespoons raw local honey
3 table spoons melted coconut oil
2.5 cups almond flour
1/2 cup coconut flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 tablespoon ground ginger
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon all spice seasoning
3/4 cup dark chocolate chips
Preheat oven 350 degrees. Using coconut oil, grease a 12 cup muffin tin or use liners. Mix all wet ingredients in mixing bowl. Blend in dry ingredients until well combined. Add in dark chocolate chips. Bake for 22 minutes.
I love these best warm, right out of the oven with my favorite coconut spread melted on top and a big mug of cinnamon tea. My kids don't care, they will eat them warm or cold! They never last long in our house and they kids argue over getting an equal number each! Without a doubt, they will satisfy your pumpkin spice craving and you will feel good about eating them. Enjoy!
In Health & Happiness...Live Radiantly!