Pumpkin Oat Scones

For heaven's sake, I just can't stop! I'm going to have to call this pumpkin month, so I hope you like pumpkin everything. And if you don't, what's wrong with you??? I'm just kidding (a little).

Today's mission: pumpkin oat scones. You know what I was going for - the ones from Starbucks that are so deliciously evil and flaky/buttery/donuty-good. These come pretty close to Starbucks' version, but perhaps a bit lighter in texture (no complaints here, though). I got the recipe from a blog called Inspired Taste.  The only thing different that I did was add about 1/3 cup of old fashioned oats. I made the dough, baked two, ate one, photographed one, then shared that one with 3 very curious little monkeys. They approve, BTW. The rest of the unbaked scones are sitting in my freezer waiting for my special house guest this weekend. How cool to be able to whip out a batch of fresh pumpkin scones in 10 minutes? I might always have to have these on hand; probably not a wise idea with my level of self-control :)-

This recipe will definitely go into my fall baking repertoire. Give it a try for a yummy treat. Perfect pumpkin scones : Mission accomplished.

Green Pumpkin Pie Smoothie

What the heck just happened? I just got Halloween decorations put away and now Thanksgiving is done and the Christmas tree is up!? I'm trying my darndest to feel the Christmas vibe but I'm totally stuck in November. Am I alone here or is time flying by this season for you, too?  While I have a bit of the post-Thanksgiving blues, we are still in full-on pumpkin season, which makes me happy.

I like pumpkin anything, I think I've told you that before. So pumpkin smoothies are nothing new here - but the addition of some greens and my favorite green powder by Philosophie, Green Dream, makes it a superfood and a super amazing breakfast or post-workout snack.  A nice little variation in morning smoothies and perfect for this month to help you get in the spirit :) It takes just a minute to whip up and tastes incredible. Ho Ho Ho.

Green Pumpkin Pie Smoothie
serves 1 for meal, 2 for snack

1 banana (frozen works great)
1/2 C pumpkin puree
3 cups loosely packed spinach
1/2 tsp vanilla
1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice (add more if desired)
1 Tbsp Green Dream (or your favorite green powder)
1/2 scoop whey protein powder (organic, grass-fed)
ice
1 1/2 C water (or almond milk)
1 date or stevia (if needed)

Blend all ingredients until smooth. Taste for sweetness and add a date or dash of stevia if needed.