Showing posts with label breakfast. Show all posts
Showing posts with label breakfast. Show all posts

Friday, February 5, 2010

Almond Muffins with Cocoa Nibs

almond muffins with cocoa nibs close-up

     I started using cocoa nibs in my baking a little over a year ago.  I especially like the nutty texture and slightly bitter chocolate taste they impart to my muffins.  These little bits of goodness are made of the  roasted cocoa bean that has been separated from its husk but not yet turned into the form we are so familiar with: powder, bars, chips etc.  They add a hint of chocolate taste without the overwhelming sweetness that often accompanies chocolate chips.

     These little muffins are wonderful for an afternoon pick-me-up or breakfast in a hurry.  They have just enough sweetness to make them feel like a treat.  The sugar provides the perfect counterbalance to the slight bitterness of the cocoa nibs.  The best part is they come together in no time!


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almond muffins with cocoa nibs

Almond Muffins with Cocoa Nibs
(makes 12)

1 cup almond meal
1/2 cup millet flour
1/2 cup brown rice flour
1 tbsp GF baking powder
1/3 cup raw sugar
1/4 tsp xantham gum powder 

1/2 cup plain yogurt or soy yogurt
1/2 cup milk, soymilk or almond milk
2 tbsp walnut oil or vegetable oil
1/3 cup egg whites
1/2 tbsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup cocoa nibs
1/2 cup walnut pieces (optional) 

  • Oil a 12 cup muffin pan.
  • Preheat oven 375F.
  • Mix the first 6 (dry) ingredients thoroughly in a large bowl.
  • Mix the next five ingredients (yogurt-vanilla extract) in a medium bowl.
  • Stir the resulting two mixtures together until just combined.
  • Add the cocoa nibs and walnuts (if using).
  • Mix a few times to distribute nibs and nut pieces evenly.
  • Divide the batter evenly among the muffin cups.
  • Bake for 20 minutes.  The tops of the muffins will be golden when they're ready.
  • Enjoy fresh out of the oven or let cool on a rack.

Printable Recipe

Monday, January 4, 2010

Amaranth: packed with nutrition

mortar amaranth

Amaranth is commonly referred to as a grain because of its appearance and nutritional profile.  It's actually not a grain at all:  it's the seed of a beautiful flower called Amaranthus, said by gardeners to be very easy to grow.






Both leaves and seeds are edible and enjoyed in various parts of the world.  The name of this wonderful plant comes from a Greek word that means "everlasting."  The plant itself comes to us from the Aztecs, however.  There are many legends attached to it, and it was an integral part of the Aztecs' diet and religious rituals. 




photo courtesy of: Wikimedia Commons



amaranth grain closeup

Amaranth's nutritional pedigree reads like manna from heaven. It is bursting with important nutrients--just take a look at its nutritional profile:


1 cup of Amaranth uncooked contains:
26g of protein
13 g of fiber
31% Daily values of Calcium
82% Daily values of Iron
14% Daily values of Vitamin C


The protein in Amaranth contains both lysine and methionine which makes it an especially good source for vegetarians. It contains no gluten (yeah!) and is a good source of vitamin E (tocotrienols).


Amaranth needs to be stored in an airtight container because of its oil content. I keep mine in a jar in the refrigerator. I try to use it within three months because the oils can go rancid if kept much longer. The good news is: it's delicious and very versatile.   You should have no problem eating it often. It can be popped like popcorn, cooked like grits, and transformed into delightful patties-- the list goes on and on. You can also add Amaranth flour to your baked-goods in moderation.  I would start by replacing 1/4 cup of your flour mix with it.   It's a great binding agent so too much will turn your bread gummy.


This week I will be sharing two recipes for Amaranth.  
Today's recipe is Popped Amaranth Cereal with Sesame Seeds and Crystallized Ginger

amaranth cereal with ginger

This breakfast or snack is packed with wholesome ingredients.  It comes together in minutes and is such a nice change from a bowl of porridge.

Coming up in my next post:  Spinach Amaranth Herb Salad


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amaranth cereal ingredients



Popped Amaranth Cereal with Sesame Seeds and Crystallized Ginger (makes 1 serving)
One of my daughters doesn't like milk of any kind, so she enjoys hers with a little bit of
orange juice. It can also be altered for a vegan diet by choosing one of the vegan milk and sweetener options listed below.

2 tablespoons of Amaranth Seeds
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1 tbsp sesame seeds
1 tsp of crystallized ginger, minced
sugar, honey or agave nectar to taste (optional)
1/4 cup milk, soy milk, almond milk or orange juice



  • Heat a thick-bottom pan to med-high temperature.  When a drop of water energetically dances in the pan you are ready to add the amaranth.
  • Add to the pan 1 tablespoon of the amaranth and stir.  It will start popping soon after.  You'll need to have a lid to prevent the seeds from flying all over the place.
  • It only take seconds and they burn fast-- keep a vigilant eye and transfer to a bowl as soon as most of them have popped. Then proceed the same way for the next tablespoon.
  • Add cinnamon and sesame to the bowl with popped cereal and mix well.
  • Then sprinkle the minced crystallized ginger. Add the sweetener if you are using it.  
  • Finally,  pour your milk of choice over the whole thing and serve.
Printable Recipe











Breakfast is Ready!

Monday, December 14, 2009

Just Right Walnut Coconut Muffins

walnut muffin whole view

I don't eat a lot of sugar.  The more you stay away from the stuff, the more intense the sugar tastes when you do eat a treat.  I have become so picky with my sweets that I tend to alter or invent my own. I select the best quality ingredients. Vibrant flavors will stand up on their own.  The sugar is there more as a team player rather than the team leader.

I had fun with this creation.  My goal was to create a really flavorful muffin that would highlight the wonderful aroma of walnuts, natural sweetness of coconut flakes and warming effects of cinnamon and ginger.  I also wanted to create a delicate texture, moist but still crumbly.  I baked them and then went to work out with a friend.  When I got home my kids had already eaten half the pan; I had to convince them to save the rest for breakfast the next day.

On another sweet note, I am thrilled to announce that my recipes will be available in printer-friendly format from now on.  I added this great feature  thanks to Kevin via Food Bloggers Unite!


walnut muffin texture


Walnut Coconut Muffins
(makes 12)
If you do not follow a gluten free diet you can substitute the rice flour, coconut flour and cornstarch with regular flour: 1/2 cup all-purpose, 1/2 cup whole wheat pastry flour--and then use the 1/2 cup of quinoa flakes as indicated in the recipe below. 


 Dry Ingredients:
1/2 cup brown rice flour
1/4 cup coconut flour
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/2 cup quinoa flakes
1 tbsp GF baking powder
1/4 tsp sea salt
2 tsp arrowroot powder
1/4 cup cane sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground ginger

Wet Ingredients:
1/4 cup walnut oil (or vegetable oil) 
1 cup lowfat milk (or soy milk)
1/4 cup egg white
4oz unsweetened apple sauce

Add-ins:
1/2 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
1/4 cup chopped walnuts

Topping:
1/4 unsweetened coconut flakes
1/4 cup walnut pieces
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1 tsp of agave nectar or honey 


  • Preheat oven to 375F
  • Oil a muffin pan and set aside
  • Mix all the dry ingredients in a large bowl
  • Mix all the wet ingredients in medium bowl
  • Make a well at the center of the flour mixture in the large bowl (think of a crater)
  • Pour the wet ingredients into the well
  • Gently start mixing the dry mixture in with the wet ingredients until combined
  • Add the add-ins
  • Divide evenly into the 12 muffin cups (I like to use my ice cream scoop for that step, the spring action makes it super easy)
  • In a small bowl combine the ingredients for the topping and then sprinkle evenly on top of each muffin
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes.  Muffins should be golden.

Printable Recipe




All Done!
crumpled walnut muffin

Hungry for more?
Pear Butter Muffins
Orange Blueberry Muffins
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Make-Ahead Meal: Tortilla Chip Stratta

TortillaStrattainDish

Make-ahead dishes are the key to a smooth holiday season. I love coming up with a meal that can be made the night before and still garners spectacular reviews.

tortillastratta2

My study group enjoyed this casserole dish while we prepared for our upcoming final in Pathophysiology--I won't bore you with the details, or you might lose your appetite. They loved the Stratta though, and asked for the recipe. Serve it to your family and guests, just leave the medical talk off the table and they're sure to enjoy their meal.:-)

Tortillastratta1


Tortilla Stratta
A Stratta is usually made with bread but tortilla chips work really well as a replacement. This is the perfect make-ahead dish for brunch or lunch. It tastes even better as leftovers. This recipe doubles up beautifully if you want to feed a crowd.


4 cups of crushed tortilla chips
1/2 cup sliced black olives
8oz tomato sauce
1/4 cup spicy salsa
2 cups lowfat milk
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheese (mexican mix or medium cheddar)
3/4 cup egg white
3 large eggs, beaten
1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cooked black beans
1 cup frozen white corn kernels, thawed
1/2 tsp ground cumin


The night before:
Oil a lasagna glass or ceramic dish.
Combine the chips, olives, tomato sauce, salsa in a large bowl.
In another bowl add: the milk, sour cream, shredded cheese, egg whites, beaten eggs and cumin. Mix well.
Then, combine it with the chip mixture.
Add the cilantro, onion, tomatoes, black beans, and corn. Mix thoroughly and pour into your prepared dish.
Cover and store in the fridge overnight.

The next day:
Preheat oven to 375F.
Take the dish out of the fridge and let it sit out for about 20 minutes to warm to room temperature.
Bake in the oven for 1 hour or until golden and puffy. Let cool for about 15-20 minutes before serving.
~serves 6-8~


TortillaStrattabatter


Tortillastratta3

Similar recipes:
White Bean Crustless Quiche with Fennel
Gluten Free French Toast Casserole
Potato Spinach Crustless Quiche

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Delicious Lunch for Busy People

quinoa flakesquiche on platter

There are not enough hours in a day. We're all running around from one obligation to another. I juggle a lot of things: my schooling, lovely walks with my husband, my four kids' busy school and social life and our everyday nutritional needs. Eating healthy becomes a huge challenge, especially for the gluten-sensitive and the health-conscious. I recently purchased my first box of Quinoa Flakes and have been exploring ways to incorporate this ingredient into some convenient dishes. This vegetarian lunch or brunch dish is a great option for a packed lunch or a cozy family gathering. It comes together in no time and the results are fantastic. Enjoy!

quinoa flakes quiche batter


Crustless high protein Quiche with Quinoa Flakes
Have fun with this recipe. Replace the chopped spinach with any leftover cooked vegetables you have on hand. Although I am singing the praises of Quinoa Flakes, they can be replaced with your favorite GF breadcrumbs.


8 oz chopped frozen spinach, thawed
8 oz lowfat plain cottage cheese
8 oz lowfat sour cream
4 eggs
1/2 cup egg whites
1/2 cup shredded mozzarela cheese or italian cheeses
1/2 cup quinoa flakes
1/4 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp garlic powder

Preheat oven to 375F
Mix all the ingredients together in a large bowl.
Transfer mixture to a pre-oiled lasagna pan
Bake for 50-55 minutes. Let cool 5 minutes before slicing. Leftovers are great cold.




Quinoa flakes Quiche
Similar recipes for your enjoyment:
Potato Spinach Crustless Quiche
Spaghetti Squash and Quinoa Bake
Zucchini Cheese Casserole

Thursday, January 8, 2009

A New Twist on Corn Muffins

pumpkin corn muffins

This muffin recipe is a new twist on an old favorite. Cornbread enjoys quite a following of loyal fans. As much as I enjoy a slice occasionally, I don't usually go out of my way to eat it. But it seemed like the perfect accompaniment for the vegetable soup I was making. A few tries yielded these savory muffins.

pumpkin corn inside

The addition of the cheese makes them very satisfying. All you'll have to do is add a bowl of steaming soup for a truly memorable winter meal.

pumpkin cornmeal muffin


Pumpkin Cornmeal Muffins (makes 12)
If you are not concerned about gluten, substitute the brown rice flour, sorghum flour, and xantham gum for 3/4 cup of all-purpose flour instead.

1/4 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon agave nectar or honey
1 cup pumpkin puree
1 1/4 cup soymilk or regular milk
1 large egg, beaten
1/3 cup egg whites

3/4 cup cornmeal
1/2 cup brown rice flour
1/4 cup sorghum flour
1/4 teaspoon xantham gum
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 cup shredded cheese (such mexican blend or mild cheddar)
1 1/2 teaspoons finely diced jalapeno peppers (optional)


Preheat oven 375F.
Oil muffin pan
Mix all the first 6 ingredients in a bowl.
Mix the next 7 (cornmeal-salt) in a larger one.
Combine the wet ingredients into the dry ones and mix until almost combined. Add the cheese and, if using, the jalapeno pepper. Mix until combined and divide the batter equally in the pan. Bake for 20 minutes or longer (check with a toothpick to see if they are done-- toothpick should come out clean).


pumpkin corn muffin close-up

Here are some great soups to pair up with these muffins:
Butternut Squash and Lima Bean Soup
Creamy Black Lentil Soup with Kale

Wednesday, December 31, 2008

The Perfect Way to Start The New Year

potatospinachquicheplated

Years ago, when we lived closer, my sister and I used to get our families together for New Year's Eve. We'd eat, drink, and play board games. In the morning, my sister and I would prepare a brunch: a cozy way to usher in a new beginning. I miss those yearly rituals.

My sister lives too far for that sort of thing these days, but my husband and I still carry on the tradition with our kids: a special dinner preceded and followed by various board games. In the morning we go for a long walk, eat a wonderful brunch and phone our extended families to express season's greetings.

I am always on the look out for new dishes to serve on the very first day of the year. This crustless quiche is perfect for any meal. It makes great use of leftovers. A mixture of pre-roasted potatoes and sauteed spinach mingles beautifully with cottage cheese and eggs to form the perfect brunch center piece.

potatospinachquiche


Potato Spinach Crustless Quiche (serves 6-8)

1 1/2 cups sauteed chopped spinach
1 1/2 cups roasted potatoes, diced size
16 oz lowfat cottage cheese
1/2 cup egg whites
3 eggs
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 cup shredded cheese (mild cheddar or italian mix)
3 tablespoons GF breadcrumbs


Preheat oven 375F
Oil a ceramic lasagna dish

Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl. Transfer to the baking dish. Bake for 1 hour. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.




potatospinachquichebite

More dishes for a New Year's Brunch:
Quinoa Spaghetti Squash Casserole
Eggs with Asian Tomato Salad

Friday, December 12, 2008

Pear Butter and Muffins

pearbutterjars

I came upon a cornucopia of pears through my CSA and decided to turn them into a light pear butter. Pears take on the loveliest velvety texture when baked and blended. It reminds me of the baby fruit purees I use to make for my children--yes, I would lick the leftovers. Since silkiness is provided by mother-nature, I just have to add the right complementary ingredients for my fruit spread. I chose maple syrup to provide some additional sweetness and richness, but the spices are really what makes this recipe special.

pearbutteronbread

The batch will yield two jars. You can enjoy it as a spread or a nice change from applesauce. I used one jar for our morning toast and then turned the rest into a batch of delicious gluten-free pear muffins.

pearmuffin

My kids loved them and immediately requested another batch.


Oven-Baked Pear Butter
The Pear Butter is vegan.

4 cups ripe pears, peeled and sliced
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 teaspoon orange zest
juice of one orange (1/4 cup)
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg

pearbutterjarandbread

Preheat oven 350F.
Mix all the ingredients in an oiled ceramic dish (lasagna pan). Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 20 minutes. Transfer pears to blender and pulse until smooth. Cool and transfer to jars. Refrigerate for up to a week.



pearmuffinplatter


Pear Butter Muffins (makes 12)

1/2 cup almond meal
1/2 cup millet flour
1 cup[ brown rice flour
1/2 teaspoon xantham gum
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 cup Sucanat (evaporated cane juice) or granulated sugar

1 cup Kefir or other liquid yogurt (buttermilk will work fine)
1/2 cup egg whites
2 tablespoons canola oil
1 teaspoon GF vanilla extract
6 tablespoons pear butter
1/4 cup walnut pieces

Preheat oven 375F.
oil a muffin pan.

Mix the first seven ingredients in a bowl.
Mix the next 4 ingredients (yogurt-vanilla extract) in a bowl.
Incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix well.

Divide half the batter into the twelve muffin cups. Add 1/2 tablespoon of pear butter on top of each muffin. Then, top each dollop of pear butter with the remaining batter. Top each muffin with a sprinkle of walnut pieces and bake for 25-30 minutes or until nice and golden. Let cool for about 10 minutes before serving or transferring to a platter.


pearbuttermuffincloseup

Similar recipes for you to enjoy:
Pumpkin Butter with Candied Ginger
Simple Fig Jam

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

My Love Affair with Cranberries

cranberry bread platter

I have started a love affair with cranberries this year. Oh, I have always loved them but this season I am rediscovering the pleasures of adding their tartness to an array of dishes and baked goods.

cranberry orange bread slices

Orange, whether zest or fresh squeezed juice, brings out their loveliness even more. Too often, they are limited to make a shy gooey appearance out of a can at Thanksgiving. No offense to the canned-cranberry-sauce lovers out there, but this does no justice to this beautiful fruit. I am partial to scones, muffins and bread bursting with citrus and chunks of these bright red berries. And, when it comes to my Thanksgiving table, I follow in my sister's footsteps and make a delicious homemade cranberry-blueberry sauce which she introduced me to many years ago. My kids eat it by the bucket-full so I always double the batch.

This year, I have discovered a new recipe for Cranberry-Orange Bread. The aroma that fills my house as I type this post is simply indescribable. You'll have to bake a loaf to find out for yourself. Be warned: it must be left alone to cool for an hour before being sliced--not an easy thing to comply with when the sweet enticing smell teases you mercilessly.

So what is so different about this bread that warrants such passion on my part? The batter for one is sweet with orange pulp and a pillowy texture. The cranberries are crushed while still frozen, thereby providing the perfect cranberry flavor to bite ratio. The pulpy juice of fresh oranges makes such a delightful difference in the intensity of flavor and texture.

Cranberry bread up-close

This recipe was based originally on an America's Test Kitchen recipe.


Cranberry Orange Bread (makes 1 loaf)
If you are not concerned about the gluten you can make this recipe using 2 cups all-purpose flour (just omit the xantham gum) instead of the first 5 ingredients. If you are gluten free but would rather use a baking mix feel free to do so but don't forget to add the xantham as indicated in the recipe. I like the addition of almond meal but I have made this loaf entirely with Bob's Red Mill GF mix before with excellent results.

1/2 cup brown rice flour
1/2 cup garbanzo bean flour
1/2 cup almond meal
1/2 cup millet flour
1 teaspoon xantham gum
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda

3 tablespoons canola oil
3 tablespoons unsweetened applesauce
2/3 cups fruit flavored kefir yogurt, or other liquid yogurt (buttermilk is a good substitute)
1/3 cup freshly squeezed orange juice with pulp
1 tablespoon of orange zest
1 large egg, beaten
1/4 cup agave nectar, or honey

1/2 cup of crushed frozen cranberries
1/2 cup walnut pieces


Preheat oven 375F
Oil a loaf pan

Mix all the first 9 ingredients together in a bowl.
In another bowl: mix the oil, applesauce, kefir, juice, zest, egg and agave nectar until well combined.
Incorporate the wet ingredients into the dry ingredient bowl. Add the cranberries and nuts and mix thoroughly. Transfer batter to prepared loaf pan. Bake for 1 hour and 10 minutes. Check for doneness after an hour by inserting a knife in the center. Blade should come out clean. Let cool for an hour before slicing.




Artsy-Foodie's Tip:
Make this recipe into muffins for a nice individual treat. Reduce the baking time to 30 minutes instead.





Stop by for a visit later on this week for a wonderful apple-cranberry salad dressing recipe...

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Black Forest Bread from Living Without Magazine

black forest bread sliced

This is not my recipe but I'm compelled to share it with you. I came across this bread in a wonderful magazine called Living Without. This periodical is well-written and informative: an all-around great resource for people with food allergies or sensitivities as well as just-plain-adventurous cooks. I sampled a half-dozen recipes from the last issue and was pleased with every single one of them.

black forest slice cream cheese

This rich bread is a real delight right out of the oven. My kids enjoyed a slice with some chocolate spread, thereby reaffirming their philosophy that you can never have too much chocolate. The aroma which overtakes your home is reason enough to make a loaf, but the texture and amazing flavor you'll savor is the true reason why you should go through the trouble. Frankly, gluten-free or not, anyone would enjoy a warm slice. It has the feel and richness of a chocolate brioche. My children have made it clear that they want to see this bread make repeat appearances in our kitchen.

black forest bread out of pan

Black Forest Bread adapted from Living Without Magazine (makes 1 loaf)
3/4 cup chickpea flour
3/4 cup cornstarch
1/2 cup cup brown rice flour
1/2 cup tapioca flour
1/2 cup coconut flour
1 tablespoon xantham gum
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons dry yeast
3 tablespoons melted butter
1 cup water
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
3 large eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon GF almond extract


Oil a loaf pan

In a mixer combine all the dry ingredients and mix on low speed then add the melted butter. Mix some more while you prepare the wet ingredients. In a bowl combine the water, vinegar, beaten eggs, and almond extract. While the mixer is on low speed, add the wet ingredients into the dry ones. Then increase the speed and let it run for about 5 minutes. Transfer the batter to the oiled loaf-pan. Cover with a clean towel and let it rise for 30 minutes. During that time preheat the oven to 375F.

Bake the bread in the center of the oven for 40 minutes or until a nice crust has formed on top and bottom sounds hollow when tapped.

black forest slice served




Artsy-Foodie's Tip: This bread is perfect for french toast. Plan ahead, slice it thick and freeze some slices for your weekend brunch.





More Delicious bread recipes...
Gluten Free Oatmeal Bread
Almost Challah

Monday, October 13, 2008

Tweaked Apple Scones

apple scones

Scones are always a favorite around here. My goal is to keep things as varied as possible which means experimenting with many ideas. I start with a concept and go from there. Sometimes, I succeed on the first try. At other times, I have been known to bake the same thing three times in a row just to tweak a recipe ever so slightly until it meets my idea of perfection.

apple scones inside

My first batch of apple scones this week was good but not great. The apple flavor I was looking for wasn't coming through enough and the texture was too much like muffins. I played around with it all morning until it was just right.

apple scone on handle

Apple Scones (makes 10)
If you are not concerned about gluten or wheat, you can use 1 cup all-purpose and 1 cup of whole-wheat white flour instead. You'll also want to omit the xantham.

1/2 cup brown rice flour
1/2 cup sorghum flour
1/2 cup tapioca flour
1/2 cup millet flour
1/4 teaspoon xantham gum
1 tablespoon GF baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup turbinado sugar, or granulated
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 tablespoon vegetable oil, or roasted walnut oil
1 tablespoon unsalted butter, diced
1 large egg, beaten
1/2 cup soymilk, or lowfat milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup walnut pieces, optional
1 cup cooking apple skin on, diced small


400F preheated oven
oiled cookie-sheet


Place the flours, xantham, baking powder, salt, sugar, and spices in a bowl and mix well.
Drizzle the oil on top and add the butter. With your fingers, work those ingredients in until the flour is well coated and forms clumps when squeezed (this should take about 2 minutes).
In a smaller bowl, combine the egg, milk and vanilla.
Form a well in the middle of the flour bowl and pour in the wet ingredients. With a wooden spoon, make circular motions to mix and form the batter. Add the diced apples.
Divide the batter into 10 patties on the prepared cookie-sheet. Place walnut pieces, if using, on top of each scones. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until bottom of scones look golden.
These are best enjoyed the same day.

scones on coffee grinder

Here's another wonderful scone recipe...
Pumpkin Chocolate Scones

Friday, October 10, 2008

Pumpkin Butter with Candied Ginger

pumpkin butter jar

It's been an orange week. I am not one to complain. Orange is one of my favorite colors. I make a prediction that as the season progresses my blog will turn its leaves at the same time as the trees outside. Little by little, it will show the beauty of October as only splashes of colors can.

Autumn rose
A warm thank you to Carol and Marty for these beautiful roses.


Here's a delicious way for you to bring some orange into your home:

pumpkin jar top


Oven Roasted Pumpkin Butter with Candied Ginger
This recipe can be made vegan by replacing the butter with vegan margarine and using agave nectar not honey.

8 cups of diced cooking pumpkin
3 tablespoons candied ginger, chopped
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 1/2 cup 100% white grape juice
1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional)
1 teaspoon agave nectar or honey (optional)


Preheat oven to 375F.
Oil a large baking dish or deep cookie-sheet.

Combine all the ingredients together and spread onto the baking dish. Bake, turning the pumpkin pieces with a spatula every 20 minutes. Once the grape juice has evaporated and the pieces are soft and cooked through they are ready (about 1 hour or so).

pumpkin roasted

Transfer cooked pumpkin to the bowl of a food processor fitted with a blade. Add butter and agave nectar, if using. Blend for one minute. Scrape the sides with a spatula and process for 30 seconds more. This wonderful spread will keep for 1 week in the refrigerator or can be frozen until needed. I like to use it on bread but also in yogurt as a flavoring agent.

pumpkin butter on waffle

Another tasty spread for your bread or waffles:
Quick and Simple Fig Jam
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