Pumpkin Spice and Everything Nice
Provided by: Eva Sorrentino, MS, RD, LD, Portneuf Hooray! It is that time of year again, time for our favorite pumpkin spice treats. While these spices are an essential part of fall, they also provide health benefits. Cinnamon contains calcium, iron, and fiber. It acts as an antioxidant to prevent cell damage and has been shown to regulate blood sugar and blood pressure in some studies. Ginger can help ease nausea and an upset stomach. It also has anti-inflammatory properties. Nutmeg has many health benefits including soothing indigestion, easing pain, help maintain healthy skin and improve blood circulation. Cloves are one of the most fragrant spices. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties too. So this Fall when you are enjoying your favorite pumpkin spice treat, know you are also treating your health.
You can easily make your own pumpkin spice blend and add to breads, cookies, oatmeal, yogurt, cream cheese, or coffees and teas. Get creative!
Pumpkin Spice Recipe
1 tsp ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp ground ginger 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg 1/8 tsp ground cloves
Combine all in a small bowl and add to your favorite recipe.Try this Fall Pumpkin Spice Granola Recipe
Ingredients4 cups old-fashioned oats 1 cup raw pumpkin seeds 1 cup canned pumpkin 1/2 cup packed brown sugar 1/4 cup honey 1/4 cup canola oil 2 tablespoons water 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 3/4 teaspoon salt 2 tsp pumpkin spice
Directions Preheat oven to 325°. In a large bowl, combine oats and pumpkin seeds. In a small saucepan, whisk remaining ingredients; bring to a boil. Remove from heat. Pour over oat mixture; toss to coat. Spread evenly into two greased 15x10x1-in. baking pans. Bake 40-50 minutes or until golden brown, stirring every 10 minutes. Cool completely on wire racks. Store in an airtight container. Yield: 4 cups. --Recipe Adapted from Taste of Home