I am going to switch gears and move to Friday Favorites. It is ok to take a moment to focus on things that bring us Joy and levity even when times are challenging. Since there is no denying now that we are in full pumpkin spice season, I am sharing with you my favorite pumpkin spice items and not all of them are food items. Join me today as I link up with Erika and Andrea for Friday Favorites-Pumpkin Spice Edition!
1. Trader Joe's Pumpkin Bread Mix
If you have spent any time on this site over the last few years you know that I am not a big baker. Baking can be tough when you are gluten-free but I have definitely figured out my go-to recipes and mixes. Trader Joe's makes an amazing pumpkin bread mix that comes in regular and gluten free. It is so Good that honestly, there is no reason in my mind to make it from scratch.
When it becomes available in stores in the fall I typically buy 2-3 at a time. I typically make muffins instead of bread but either is great. I did a bread with mini chips for a friend and am making another one for another friend this weekend. Hockey Guy and I are partial to adding white chocolate chips to the muffins as white chocolate and pumpkin is a very underrated combo. I rolled into his college town three weeks ago with a dozen of these muffins in white chocolate and another dozen with the mini chips.
As gluten-free baking can often be dry, I can attest that you can make the gluten-free version as directed, no need to add extra egg or anything beyond the ingredients as directed. Hockey Guy always told me that he could never tell that they were gluten-free. You can take that as a testament if you have a mix of gluten and non-gluten eaters in your house.
2. Trader Joe's Pumpkin Body Butter
I know this is starting to sound like a fan letter to Trader Joe's but they are kind of pumpkin spice HQ. A few years ago I found the pumpkin body butter there and loved it. I have not bought one this year because I have tons of lotions from product reviews but it is taking all of my will power to not put one in my cart. This body butter is not greasy, super moisturizing and has a great pumpkin spice scent without making you smell like a donut.
3. Celestial Seasonings Sweet Harvest Pumpkin Tea
I know that pumpkin spice coffee gets all of the attention this time of year but I found this lovely tea that I have been enjoying in the afternoons. It does have caffeine so it can definitely be your friend for those 2:30 p.m. webinars. It is sweet and savory and a nice alternative to coffee.
4. Hello Pumpkin Mugs
I love these mugs and bought them in September after I kept looking at them during my lunchtime mental health breaks in TJ Maxx. They are by Rae Dunn and are a big mug. They are perfect mug for all of your pumpkin beverages.
5. Trader Joe's Pumpkin Ice Cream
A few years ago I was in Trader Joe's and a woman told me how Good the pumpkin ice cream was. I grabbed a container and she was totally right. This is an item that does not stick around, so if you see it, you should buy it. I am going to try to pick some up this week. It is a little like the pumpkin unicorn of ice cream. It doesn't last long.
Ok, now I am ready for you to share your favorite pumpkin spice food and other items in the comments below. Hit me with your candles, your coffee, your desserts. I want them all in the comments.
And one final plea to help the people impacted by Hurricane Milton. Please send your prayers and Good thoughts and help financially if you can. Sending love to all that have dealt with these two storms.
I apparently need to make another trip to TJ's and try and snag some of that ice cream- sounds delish! I like the autumn harvest salsa and some of the fall cheeses they carry for sure!
ReplyDeleteYes. I also like the autumn harvest salsa. I should pick some up when I go this afternoon.
ReplyDeleteI love pumpkin everything! Especially the lattes from Starbucks!
ReplyDeleteThat pumpkin bread mix sounds fantastic! You do right buying 2 or 3 at a time and that mug is so cute!
Thank you. I love a pumpkin spice latte too!
DeleteThese all sound delicious (well the food themed ones anyway!). That mug is adorable.
ReplyDeleteThanks Joanne! Appreciate you stopping by.
DeleteSuch fun favorites!
ReplyDeleteIt was super fun.I appreciate you taking the time to read and comment.
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