Vegan MoFo #2: Peanut Pumpkin Pie Spread

I love fall. 


I've recently decided that it is my new favorite season. Why? Because I love the fall breezes (even though I HATE being cold), sweaters and vests, leaves falling from the trees, and corn mazes. And we CANNOT forget the food: pumpkins, squash, apples....around this time of year, I start craving these foods like no other. They are SO GOOD. And good for you! 

I whipped up this spread to smear on bananas one day, and boy was it a good decision. It tastes like pumpkin pie infused with peanut butter. This could easily be a quick, easy, and healthy filling for little cups made of graham crackers (mini pumpkin pies, anyone?). It is so delicious and has no sugar at all. Win! 


I have an obsession with pumpkin flavored anything. It really helps that it's so good for you too. It is loaded with Vitamin A and fiber, PLUS its low in calories. Pumpkins also contain the antioxidants alpha and beta-carotene, Vitamins C and E, magnesium, pantothenic acid (vitamin B5 - balances hormone levels and helps us manage stress!) and potassium as well as other vitamins and nutrients. It can help heal skin damage, boost immunity, and reverse aging. It can improve our eyesight. Why should we NOT love this vegetable?!


And, if you think the seeds are useless, think again - pumpkin seeds are a great source of omega-3 ("The benefits of omega-3s include reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke while helping to reduce symptoms of hypertension, depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), joint pain and other rheumatoid problems, as well as certain skin ailments. Some research has even shown that omega-3s can boost the immune system and help protect us from an array of illnesses including Alzheimer's disease" - WebMD) and omega-6 ("omega-6 fatty acids play a crucial role in brain function as well as normal growth and development. Also known as polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), they help stimulate skin and hair growth, maintain bone health, regulate metabolism, and maintain the reproductive system." - University of Maryland Medical) essential unsaturated fatty acids, as well as vitamin E, potassium, magnesium, iron, and zinc.  


Now that you're anxious to eat some pumpkin, how about trying this spread on bananas or using it for a slightly sweet dessert? It's delicious to just eat with a spoon! 

Peanut Pumpkin Pie Spread
Ingredients:
1 T. natural peanut butter
2 T. pumpkin puree
2 t. unsweetened almond milk
A pinch of cinnamon
A pinch of Stevia

Directions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together peanut butter and pumpkin puree until smooth.
2. Add cinnamon and Stevia and stir well.
3. Add almond milk and mix until creamy.

Like I said, this stuff is addicting, and I could have eaten this entire batch myself... but I had self-control for once and put half in the fridge for later.

What is your favorite aspect of fall?
Much love,