Fiber One Limited Edition Pumpkin Bar

Let me take a moment to introduce you to my newest little friend from the Fiber One brand .... Fiber One Limited Edition Pumpkin Bar. I buy Fiber One products once in a while, but I don't eat them often because the added fiber can reek havoc on my stomach. But when I saw these pumpkin bars ... I knew I had to try them, and I am so glad that I did.

Before I really get into it I will say this: if you're a pumpkin fan, go to your local Target/Wal-Mart (or if you really enjoy them your local Costco) and pick up a box before they are gone for good.  The bars are truly perfection. They're soft and moist (seemingly moister than your average Fiber One bar). They are a true pumpkin flavor without being crazily artificial, there's a subtle sweetness to it with what appear to be white chocolate chips scattered here and there. They add a nice contrast in texture and the drizzle over the top is perfection.

Seemingly one of my favorite pumpkin desserts to date ... which sadly are only available for a limited time. The pumpkin lover in me wishes these would be available year round, because, yes, they are THAT good.

A serving, 1 bar, is 90 calories or 2 points plus values.

Dunkin Donuts Iced Pumpkin Macchiato

I used to not be much of a Dunkin Donuts girl. That is until my boyfriend introduced me to the dark side (that being the Chips Ahoy iced coffee - which sadly they no longer carry). Seeing all the hype online about Dunkin's offering macchiato's ... I decided to give it a try. So, on my way back to work on my lunch break I decided to pick up a large Dunkin Donuts Iced Pumpkin Macchiato.

The iced macchiato is a layered beverage which includes brewed espresso, milk (your choice of whole or skim), ice and pumpkin swirl flavoring. Personally I find the pumpkin swirl to be sweet enough that a large only needed 1 packet of sugar substitute (equal/splenda). The milk is actually flavored with the pumpkin swirl and the espresso is then layered in over the ice and milk to create that gradient effect.

Of course the moment I was given my beverage, I made sure to swirl it all together using my straw to incorporate all the flavors together. I'm not one for a bold shot of espresso without milk or sweetener involved. The macchiato itself is very good. It's got the classic boldness from the espresso, the sweet pumpkin flavor and I found the two extremes in flavors really balance themselves out.

The only cringe worthy part was the price tag. In my area, a large (after meal tax) was $4.27. Granted, it's still cheaper than going to Starbucks (which a venti would actually be smaller than Dunks version - you'd have to stretch for a trenta to compete). But in comparison to the 2 large iced I can get for 80 cents more ... I think my iced pumpkin macchiato days are going to be treated as treats and not an on the regular purchase.

According to the Dunkin Donuts website, a large beverage (made with skim milk) is 100 calories or 2 points plus values.

Chobani Greek Yogurt Flip - Pumpkin Harvest Crisp

With the change of the seasons upon us this only means one thing ... pumpkin everything! One of those items happens to be one of my favorite snacks: pumpkin yogurts. I'm a hands down pumpkin fanatic, so when I spotted the Chobani Greek Yogurt Flip - Pumpkin Harvest Crisp at my local Target, I made sure to pick one up ... and I am so glad I did.

The yogurt itself is a smooth pumpkin flavored Greek yogurt that isn't tart or overpowering. The Greek yogurt flavor doesn't overpower the pumpkin flavoring either. I'd have to go out on a limb and say this is one of the best pumpkin flavored Greek yogurts I have tried. One of the best parts is the toppings that come alongside the yogurt. It's a nice combination of pie crust, pumpkin seeds and pecans. Once added into the yogurt it really transforms it into a wonderful dessert/snack. The pie crust really seals the deal, while the pumpkin seeds and pecans give nice crunch and a nuttiness to the yogurt.

Overall I think this is one of the best Chobani Flips I have tried to date. I wouldn't be mad if they made this part of their permanent collection ... because lets face it, I'd eat pumpkin yogurt all year long.

A serving, 1 container, is 210 calories or 6 points plus values.

Trader Joe's Pumpkin O's

With the Fall season, Trader Joe's 'unleashes' their pumpkin flavored goodies Some of which are so delicious they should truly be incorporated into their everyday items. One of these products is the Trader Joe's Pumpkin O's. When I first picked up the box I wasn't sure if it was going to be true slam dunk pumpkin flavor ... but these are everything one wold imagine.

For comparison purposes I'll say they are a pumpkin version of Honey Nut Cheerios. The cereal itself has a classic wheat cereal flavor, but it's not overwhelming. The pumpkin flavor is at the forefront and it's clearly evident you're having a pumpkin cereal. It's not a dish that's so lightly flavored you have to "search" for the main flavor. The cereal also has a light sugar coating to it which gives it only a hint of sweetness.

Overall I find this to be one of the best pumpkin breakfast items I have tried. Even those who have tried some have all agreed that it's quite delicious (and even more delicious than one would assume). The only downside is ... it's seasonal and once it's gone, it's gone (until next season).

A 1 cup serving is 110 calories or 3 points plus values.

Limited Edition Pumpkin Spice Oreo's

As a certified pumpkin lover ... I tend to "get my pumpkin fix" during the fall season. I mean, how could I not since everything is turned into a pumpkin flavor?  On a quick run through the grocery store to get a few things needed for the week - I spotted a table of Oreo's. Initially I didn't pay much mind to it because I assumed they were the Caramel Apple Oreo's ... but then did a double take when I realized they were actually the Limited Edition Pumpkin Spice Oreo's.

 

After that double take ... the cookies made a temporary home in my shopping cart, into my car ... and into my home. The end result, ended up in my stomach (but not the whole pack! only 2!).

 

Opening the package you're awarded with a pumpkin aroma. It's not sickeningly sweet ... it's a nice rich sweet pumpkin scent. Flavor wise ... these are pretty much spot on. That is, with the cookie surrounding it. The flavor of the cream on its own without the cookie is a sweet, cinnamony pumpkin cream. The cinnamon flavor is cut down and the sweetness is reduced when you eat it with the cookie. Truthfully, I quite enjoyed these. So has everyone else I've shared these with (niece, nephew, mother, cousin, etc.).

 

A serving is 2 cookies, 150 calories or 4 points plus values.

Pillsbury Pumpkin Cookies

My niece was spending the night and I made the "mistake" of shopping with my mother and niece at the same time. Knowing I'm a pumpkin aficionado my mother picked up a package of the Pillsbury Pumpkin Cookies to 'show' me them ... that's when my niece -- a miniature pumpkin aficionado - got all bright eyed and bushy tailed. I stated "No, not happening, put them back." That's when my niece (who's 5) said "That's okay, gramma, we can hide them from auntie." Attempt: Failed.  That's when the night turned into 'baking cookies with auntie Shannon' - which admittedly was fun and I'm glad to make cookies with her.

 

The package stated the pumpkin cookies had cream cheese flavored chips. The chips resemble white chocolate chips - but do have a bit of a cream cheese flavor to them. The easiest part, with little fingers, was the cookie dough comes in little pre-portioned sections making for easy baking and even portion sizes. All that was left for me to do was open the package, lay down a baking sheet and my niece broke up the cookie dough and layered it onto the tray. A few rearrangements and the cookies were into the oven for baking.

 

Since my oven cooks extremely fast, I lowered the oven temperature and cooked for a few minutes less and they came out perfectly. The edges were light brown, the bottoms were cooked, the cookies were soft yet had a slight bit of bite to them. Better yet they were a hit with my niece and my mother enjoyed them. I had one cookie. They're good ... they do have a chewy pumpkin flavor to them and the cream cheese bits add an extra boost of sweetness. Overall, they're truly not that bad and an enjoyable, different way to have pumpkin.

 

A serving is 1 cookie for 120 calories or 4 points plus values.

Pumpkin Noosa

I've seen this yogurt time and time again but I recall checking the points of the blueberry flavor months back and was shocked at how high in points it was. But after hearing numerous people say how delicious this brand of yogurt was .. I decided to take the plunge. That is because of the Pumpkin Noosa which is available at Target.

 

Fall is the time for apple and pumpkin flavored dishes. Since I am a pumpkin fan and have yet to find a pumpkin yogurt that truly is #1 in my book ... that is ... until now!

 

I wasn't sure what to expect when I opened the container. I've had Greek yogurt in the past and it's typically tart. This was more along the lines of plain yogurts consistency (looser yogurt, not thick) which had a mild sweetness to it. After a quick glance over the brands website, it's an Australian yogurt which they adapted the Greek yogurt and mixed it with some honey for sweetness.  Here's the blurb from the brands website:

 

"We Aussies are famous for embracing other cultures, then adding our own little twist to make them our own. (It’s not “stealing,” it’s “being inspired.” There’s a difference!)
That’s exactly what we did with our Noosa Finest Yoghurt. We took a page from the Greeks (Ta, Greeks!) with their famously rich yoghurt. Ours is made in small batches, set, and infused with honey to give it that delicious sweet-tart tang, and smooth, velvety texture that sets us apart from the throng. We add just the right amount of fruit purees, made from the best the seasonal market has to offer, and pack it in clear tubs so you can see for yourself the lusciousness of what you’re about to enjoy."

The pumpkin was in the container on the bottom/side of the container which had a true pumpkin flavor ... more along the lines of a pumpkin pie filling. It wasn't overly sweet, it was smooth, with a cinnamon/nutmeg flavor to it. Quite enjoyable actually. It was perfect either mixed with the regular yogurt or eaten in small bites. I felt it was more of a "dessert" or "treat" than say, a breakfast (at least for me).

 

A container is a serving which is 290 calories or 8 points plus values. Admittedly high stats ... but for a good tasting, quality yogurt it's good for a once in a while treat. Or if you're dedicated enough you could split it into two servings.

Spiced Chocolate Chip Walnut Muffins

Last week I whipped up a batch of Pumpkin Chocolate Walnut Muffins and they were such a hit they were gone in a couple days.  So being in the baking mood I decided to make a similar batch but using spice cake mix.  Spice cake is one of my favorite types of homemade cakes, but since I don’t always get to have it homemade, boxed is second best.  I used a very similar recipe to what I did with the pumpkin muffins, although with this batch I increased the amounts of some ingredients.

These came out perfect – they’re moist, delicious, and again another crowd pleaser. These were even given the stamp of approval from my 4 year old niece. I’d call that a success in my book.

4 Points Plus. Serves 16.

Ingredients:

• 1 box Betty Cocker Super Moist Spice Cake Mix
• 15 oz can Libby’s Pure Pumpkin
• 3 tbsp egg whites
• ½ cup water
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 4 tbsp chocolate chips (milk or semi-sweet)
• 3 tbsp chopped walnuts

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line muffin tins with cupcake papers, each paper spritzed with non-stick cooking/baking spray.

In a large bowl mix together cake mix, pumpkin, egg whites, baking soda and water until blended and smooth.

Evenly distribute batter to each cupcake paper. I found large heaping tablespoons helped distribute the batter evenly, with the remainder being distributed throughout the cups.

In a small bowl mix together chocolate chips and walnuts, then evenly sprinkle over the top of each muffin. I used a ½ teaspoon to distribute.

Bake per box directions.  Cupcakes are done when a knife is inserted and comes out clean – roughly 15-18 minutes.

Garden Lites Pumpkin Spice Souffle

I spotted this Garden Lites Pumpkin Spice Souffle at Target and into my cart it went. I admit, at first when I saw the words “pumpkin spice” and “souffle” in the same sentence I was a little apprehensive. I wasn’t sure if it was going to be a rewarding food experience. But there’s a little saying that says “don’t judge a book by its cover” so I tried not to.

After calculating the points plus values, I was quite excited to see the points plus values are actually notated on the box. Once I found this, it made looking at other flavor options a breeze.

One day I wanted something pumpkiny for dessert. Wrinkling my nose at the options presented to me, I decided to give the pumpkin spice soufflé a shot.  I heated it up in the microwave per the box directions. After letting it cool for a few minutes I tried it and was very impressed from that very first bite. It tasted just like pumpkin pie filling.  I decided to jazz it up just a little more with a tablespoon of sugar free maple syrup over the top … and it was sinfully delicious! It was undoubtedly pumpkin spice – but more pumpkin than spice which I truly appreciated. It wasn’t eggy in the least bit, but it did have a little bit of a creamy quality to it on the tongue which was reminiscent of custard. Overall, delicious – and so delicious that I made sure to pick up another box on my last trip through Target.

A serving (the whole bowl – 7 ounces) is 190 calories or 5 points plus values.

QUESTION:

Have you tried any of the Garden Lites soufflés? If so, which one(s) is/are your favorite?

Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Biscotti

I picked up a container of Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Biscotti after spotting them rather accidentally. I was looking to grab a pack of the Five Seed Almond Bars when I noticed the bright orange container. My attention was immediately diverted so I picked up the container to check out the nutrition facts. Right then a Trader Joe’s employee walked by and said “those are delicious!” … and we can say, that sealed the deal.

I enjoy biscotti cookies and I love pumpkin – and since I have never had pumpkin biscotti I felt it would be a nice treat.  My personal favorite biscotti are chewier biscotti, not the classic hard biscotti … which these are. These particular biscotti are very crunchy and hard and are best to eat with tea or coffee … as regular biscotti tend to be best eaten.  Taste wise these are pumpkin spice flavored, whereas texture wise they’re hard, crunchy and slightly crispy.  I’m not saying these are bad, they’re good … but I’d enjoy them a lot more if they were slightly chewy, but that’s just personal preference.

A serving is 2 biscotti cookies, which are 110 calories or 3 points plus. The biscotti cookies are smaller – smaller than the size of your finger.

QUESTION:

What is your favorite type of biscotti?

Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Bread & Muffin Mix

I’m a sucker for pumpkin desserts (I mean, what else is new) and because I had tried the Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Bread & Muffin Mix last year and was quite a fan. I like this mix because it’s one of the most versatile mixes because it’s advertised as a bread or muffin … but I tend to enjoy making this as a cake.

The mix calls for eggs, oil and water to be added to it – but when baking I typically try to cut corners and make it healthier.  So, with this particular mix I make my pumpkin cake with sugar free apple sauce and water. I simply add 1 cup water and ½ cup unsweetened apple sauce mix it up until incorporated and add it to a Pam spritzed cake pan. They come out perfect every time! Moist and delicious.  The apple sauce doesn’t give it an apple flavor; it’s truly not noticeable when added in, but the cake does have a unique moistness to it.  I cooked this up on a whim after wanting dessert that night and no one had any idea I made it with apple sauce and water. When I finally let the cat out of the bag, everyone was surprised and shocked.

¼ cup of mix is 150 calories, or 4 points plus.  With the apple sauce and water each slice remains at 4 points plus.  Whereas if the oil, eggs and water were added the nutrition info and points plus would need to be recalculated.

QUESTION:

What is your favorite pumpkin flavored baking item?

Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Bagels

When I spotted these Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Bagels I picked up the bag and gave it a good whiff. I have this weird thing I do where when buying bread products that have a flavor to them, I have to smell it through the bag. If it smells weird, I can’t buy it because I essentially won’t eat it. But when I smelled these they smelled ah-mazing!

After opening the bag at home, I sliced the bagel in half and popped it into the toaster. I noticed throughout the bagel there are bits which resemble brown sugar pieces, taste sweet and pumpkin spice flavored.  They are nicely pumpkin flavored without being overbearing on the taste buds.  Toasting the bagels up they come out nice and crunchy, yet soft, and are perfect with cream cheese, spray butter or even peanut butter.

I enjoyed them so much I have been eating them for breakfast or brunch a good portion of the week.  I find with peanut butter they’re perfectly filling and will hold me over until the next meal.  They’re reasonably priced as well - $2.59 for a bag of 6.

Each bagel is 250 calories or 6 points plus values.

QUESTION:

Are you a fan of pumpkin bagels?

Trader Joe’s Country Pumpkin Spice Granola Cereal

Fall brings out all the pumpkin and fall goodies at Trader Joe’s.  This meant, I was super excited to pick up a box of Trader Joe’s Country Pumpkin Spice Granola Cereal. I did not have a chance to give this a try last year and since I have a pumpkin fascination/obsession I wanted to give it a go.

I’m a big granola fan – but I truthfully don’t eat it very often at all. This has been the first box of granola I have purchased in over 3 years … and I have to say, it was well worth the wait.  I first described this granola as what you would get if plain old granola and pumpkin pie had a baby. It’s that classic crunchy granola texture mixed with chewy raisins with a very noticeable pumpkin spice flavor mixed throughout. It’s delicious, flavorful and mixes well with yogurts and assorted fruits.  I’ve had this pumpkin spice granola over pumpkin flavored yogurt, while I’ve also had it with coconut vanilla yogurt mixed with fresh blueberries, strawberries and granola on top of it.  It adapts well to the flavors it’s mixed with while it also holds up to its crunchy texture.  I have been such a fan I have incorporated this into my breakfast/snacks daily.

A serving is 2/3 cup which is 240 calories, or 6 points plus values.  Although I find a 1/3 cup serving is more than enough to accompany a serving of yogurt. A 1/3 cup serving calculates out to be 3 points plus values.

QUESTION:

Have you ever tried Trader Joe’s pumpkin spice granola?

Yoplait Light Pumpkin Pie Yogurt

I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it again … fall is upon us, which means pumpkin everything! One of my favorite repeat purchases has been Yoplait Light Pumpkin Pie Yogurt.  This little gem is distributed by Yoplait this time of year … but oddly enough is usually only found (at least in my area) at Target locations. I first spotted this last year and have been hooked since then.  When I spotted this 4-pack at Target, I immediately put it in my cart.

The yogurt flavoring is on point; it tastes just like a pumpkin pie although a slightly tart pumpkin pie.  Before I take my first bite, I usually have to remind myself of the consistency. The yogurt is on the thinner side which isn’t the texture of pumpkin pie so it at first is a little mind boggling. Granted, if this were a Greek yogurt, I think it’d be a homerun in the park but even with it being regular yogurt it’s quite delicious.. Last year I did try these incorporated into a smoothie and it was a deliciously fabulous experience. I haven’t made a pumpkin pie smoothie yet because I ate up my yogurt and have to get to Target to get another pack soon!

One cup is 2 points plus, whereas 2 cups is 3 points plus.  Quite worth it for the average pumpkin lover!

QUESTION:
Have you tried the Yoplait Pumpkin Pie yogurt?

Nature Valley Granola Thins - Pumpkin Pie

I was actually told about these limited edition Nature Valley Granola Thins in Pumpkin Pie via Instagram. My love of pumpkin is strong and I personally wouldn’t have known about these unless I just happened to be browsing Stop & Shop and stumbled upon the mini display … which probably wouldn’t have happened.

I have wanted to try the granola thins for the longest time but since I’m not a big fan of dark chocolate I just couldn’t justify making the purchase. But give me a milk chocolate (which they don’t sell) or a pumpkin pie granola thin and I am all on board.  When I opened the package, I was gifted with a nice pumpkin pie scent.  Taking the first bite I was rewarded with that crumbly granola texture and then a sweet frosting on the bottom of the thin.  A perfect blend of both pumpkin and granola – definitely two thumbs up!

A serving is one thin, which conveniently come packaged in their own individual packs.  A serving is 80 calories or 2 points plus values.  I did find these at Stop & Shop but have yet to see them elsewhere.

QUESTION:

Have you tried any of the Nature Valley Granola Thins?

Pumpkin Pie Pop-Tarts

Pop-Tarts … back in my “hay day” my ideal choice for a late breakfast or even a mid-afternoon snack.  Toaster pastries are a long-lost “love” of mine and I can honestly say it’s been years since I have had a Pop-Tart. That is, until I spotted these Pumpkin Pie Pop-Tarts on the shelf and just had to give them a go.

I’m a self proclaimed pumpkin fanatic and pumpkin pie is one of my all time favorite pies. These did not let me down, the pastries are fabulous.  They’re good at room temperature straight out of the packaging, but they are heavenly after being toasted.  They really do taste like pumpkin pie.  The filling is undoubtedly pumpkin pie, the frosting is sweet but it doesn’t make the pastry sickeningly sweet and the crust is reminiscent of pie crust. Spot on as far as I’m concerned.

The one major thing I dislike about Pop-Tarts is not the product itself, but its packaging. A serving size is 1 pastry, yet there are 2 pastries in a pack. Sure, a pastry can be taken out of a pack and put into a zip-lock bag … but that’s a little annoying.  I have yet to make an exception to my stubborn rule until these. Typically I’ll eat one pastry and share the other with whoever I’m with.

One pastry is a serving, which runs at 200 calories or 5 points plus values.  Worth it if you’re in the market for something sweet and tasty.

QUESTION:

What is your favorite Pop-Tart flavor?

Pumpkin Oatmeal

With fall upon us I had a strong inkling for pumpkin oatmeal. With that, I decided to whip up a pot of pumpkin oatmeal to have on hand for the week.  I have seen pumpkin oatmeal recipes for the crock pot but they involved chunks of real pumpkin in it.  Since canned pumpkin is readily available to me I decided to venture down a different path.  I did google pumpkin oatmeal and I found a recipe by Aarti Sequeira from the Food Network. I used that as a stepping stone for my oatmeal and adapted it to the flavors I would like in my oatmeal as well as keeping an eye on the ingredients I used because I didn’t want my oatmeal to be astronomically high in points plus values.

I have to say the end result is pretty delicious. Its pumpkin flavored, but mildly sweet and I can have a variety of different serving sizes depending on my hunger at the time (1 1/4 cups = 6 points plus, 1 cup = 5 points plus or 1/2 cup = 2 points plus).  The thing I like about the dish is that it can be adapted to how you like your oatmeal – whether you like it wetter or dryer, you can increase or decrease on the additional water I added at the end.    The whole recipe made 5 cups of oatmeal.

Serves 5. Serving Size – 1 Cup.  5 Points Plus Values.

Ingredients:

-          14 oz pumpkin puree

-          2/3 cup skim milk

-          1/3 cup unsweetened almond milk

-          1 cup water, plus 2/3 cup reserved

-          1 tsp pumpkin spice

-          1 tsp cinnamon

-          1 tsp brown sugar

-          ¼ cup sugar free maple syrup

-          ¼ tsp salt

-          1 ¼ tbsp honey

-          3 packets Equal (optional)

-          2 cups quick cooking oats

In a large pot add pumpkin, milk, almond milk, brown sugar, 1 cup water, cinnamon, maple syrup, salt, cinnamon and pumpkin pie spice.  Turn flame on to medium heat and blend pumpkin together with the remaining contents until blended smooth and starting to bubble.

Once bubbling add in the quick cooking oats and stir to combine. When combined drizzle in the honey and stir to combine.  Depending on the thickness, slowly add in some of the reserved 2/3 cup water and blend water into the oatmeal until absorbed.

Taste the flavor of the oatmeal and if not sweet enough for your liking, sprinkle in 3 packets of Equal and stir to combine.  Allow the pot to simmer for 1-2 minutes before turning off the heat.

Market Pantry Pumpkin Cereal Bars

Fall is my favorite season and along with fall comes one of my favorite flavors – pumpkin!  I LOVE pumpkin and love just about anything pumpkin. This time of the year is one of my favorites when shopping because it’s seriously pumpkin overload at the stores and its fun trying new and unique items.  One of the new things I spotted while out at Target (in the Halloween section incase you want to pick it up) is the Market Pantry Pumpkin Cereal Bars.

I enjoy cereal bars every once in a while as a snack, or as a part of a meal (typically with breakfast).  These bars have the typical texture of a cereal bar – grainy and slightly chewy. They’re an undeniable pumpkin flavor (which is appreciated) and it’s sweetened up by the vanilla frosting. I know the package says filling but the bar I ate didn’t seem to have filling inside of it, just frosting on the outside.  Regardless, it gave it sweetness and really tied the bar together. It reminded me of some of the guiltier desserts that come around in the fall – such as pumpkin cake, etc.

Each bar has 160 calories in it with 7 grams of fat – which is equal to 4 points plus values. Definitely a nice treat!

QUESTION:

Have you tried the Market Pantry Pumpkin Cereal Bars?

Pumpkin Spice Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies

This past week I decided I wanted to do a little baking and Spice Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies were on the menu!

I wanted to make these the week prior, but time just didn’t allow so I went ahead and whipped these up over the weekend and boy, oh boy, were they delicious!  Not only were they delicious, but they were so simple to make.  It involved opening packages and a can, dumping the contents into a bowl and measuring out chocolate chips and walnuts.  Easy as pie.

The Points Plus values do vary depending on the amount of cookies you make so your individual recipe would have to be thrown into Weight Watchers Recipe Builder to uncover the points plus value per serving.  I ended up making 68 cookies and it made each cookie 1 points plus value each.

These cookies are softer cookies – but they are heavenly.

Ingredients:

• 1 box Spice Cake Mix
• 1 can 100% pure pumpkin (NOT pumpkin pie)
• ½ cup chopped walnuts
• 1 cup milk chocolate chips
• ~1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

Blend spice cake mix. Pumpkin pie spice and pumpkin together until evenly combined and there are no bumps left.  Add in the chopped walnuts and chocolate chips and fold until combined.

Using a melon baller, teaspoon or the tip of a tablespoon drop cookies onto a non-stick cookie sheet.  Note: the cookies don’t really rise or spread so having them close together (but not touching) on the pan will not affect the end result.

Bake in a 350 degree oven for roughly 10 minutes or until golden brown.  Cooking times vary oven to oven, so it may take up to 15 minutes to bake.

Last but not least – enjoy!

Trader Joe’s – Pumpkin Butter

Ah, Pumpkin Butter – the greatest thing I’ve eaten in a while.

I will admit I’ve had this jar in my cabinet for a few weeks now.  I originally started hunting for this toward the end of fall but I was advised that it was seasonal and unfortunately they were out.  That is until someone was in the same aisle as me, looking for pumpkin butter, and she asked one of the people working.  They found one single jar in the store and part of me went “Nooo…..”.  Thankfully on one of my next trips to TJ’s I found the pumpkin butter had been restocked on the shelf, so I immediately grabbed a jar because I knew if I waited it wouldn’t be there when I wanted it.  So fast, forward ….

What is Pumpkin Butter?  It’s like a jelly/jam that’s pumpkin flavored.  It’s smooth like butter, but not even in the same category.  It’s also incredibly diverse meaning you can use it in a number of ways – on toast, on ice cream, on meats, in recipes, etc (all at your own mercy)..  Quite confusing, but trust me, it’s amazing.  It tastes JUST like pumpkin pie.  So I guess you could say if pumpkin pie and butter had a baby this would be the end result.  Another unique combination from Trader Joe’s!

I will say, calorie wise this isn’t bad at all.  For a tablespoon serving there are 40 calories.  There’s absolutely NO fat in it and it tastes fabulous.  Weight Watchers PointsPlus wise it’s 1 PPV.  Not bad at all.

I enjoyed this on an English muffin … I then experimented with it, by adding some Cookie Butter and a piece of banana.  Amazingness.