During difficult periods, we frequently seek out comforting elements that bring us solace and tranquility. This might involve listening to music, strolling along the beach at sunset, reading, meditating, or praying. For me, cooking serves as a refuge; it allows me to be inventive, nurturing, and productive simultaneously. Globally, individuals are encountering various hardships – whether through illness, isolation, exhaustion, anxiety, loss of income, or mourning the normalcy of life that existed prior to this. Before the pandemic, self-isolation, ‘social distancing,’ lockdowns, and a lack of sufficient funds, food, or medical resources for those in need.
I am somewhat insulated from the most severe trials that others endure. Aside from adapting to remote work, not being able to see friends and family, missing celebrations, my husband needing to change out of his scrubs at the door upon returning from work, and the sporadic toilet paper shortage, my life continues largely as usual. However, it is deeply disconcerting and exhausting to reside in this uncertain era – not knowing what may come next, whether more individuals will fall ill and perish, and when this period of upheaval might conclude.
I wish for you to discover something that offers you comfort and peace, and if you enjoy cooking as I do, this recipe may be a straightforward and delightful option to prepare for yourself and your dear ones.
Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cups self-raising flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 2/3 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup pepitas
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 2 eggs
Begin by preheating the oven to 180 C. Prepare a 12-cup muffin pan with paper liners. To create the mashed pumpkin, roast about 500 g of Kent pumpkin (skin on), lightly drizzled with canola oil, at 180 C for approximately 30 minutes or until tender. Once cool enough to handle, extract the flesh from the skin and mash with a fork. For the muffins, sift together the flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and sugar into a medium mixing bowl. Incorporate the pecans and mix thoroughly. In a separate bowl, whisk the vegetable oil, milk, mashed pumpkin, maple syrup, vanilla, and eggs together. Quickly combine the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, being careful not to overmix as this could make the muffins tough. Distribute the mixture evenly into the muffin tin and sprinkle pepitas on top. Bake for 25 – 30 minutes, until the muffins spring back when gently pressed. Serve warm or at room temperature, either plain or with butter and a drizzle of honey.
# Wholesome Pumpkin, Pecan, and Pepita Muffins for Tough Times
In periods of unpredictability, it’s vital to uphold a nutritious and balanced diet, supporting both physical and mental health. One effective way to secure essential nutrients while indulging in a comforting snack is by baking healthy treats at home. These **Pumpkin, Pecan, and Pepita Muffins** are filled with vitamins, minerals, and beneficial fats, making them a wonderful addition to your diet during trying times.
## **Why These Muffins Are Worth It**
These muffins are not just tasty but also offer a range of health benefits:
– **Pumpkin** is abundant in **vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants**, enhancing immune response and aiding digestion.
– **Pecans** are rich in **healthy fats, protein, and magnesium**, which support cardiovascular health and sustained vitality.
– **Pepitas (pumpkin seeds)** are excellent for **zinc, iron, and protein**, bolstering immune health and overall wellness.
– **Whole grains and natural sweeteners** make these muffins a healthier pick than processed snacks.
## **Ingredients**
To whip up a batch of these nutritious muffins, you’ll require:
### **Dry Ingredients:**
– 1 ½ cups whole wheat flour (or a gluten-free option)
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon baking powder
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– ½ teaspoon nutmeg
– ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
### **Wet Ingredients:**
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree (not the pie filling)
– ½ cup maple syrup or honey
– ¼ cup melted coconut oil or olive oil
– 2 eggs (or flax eggs for a vegan twist)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
### **Add-ins:**
– ½ cup chopped pecans
– ¼ cup pepitas (pumpkin seeds)
– ¼ cup raisins or dark chocolate chips (optional)
## **Instructions**
1. **Preheat the oven** to 350°F (175°C) and either line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.
2. **Combine the dry ingredients** in a large bowl—mix the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger thoroughly.
3. **Blend the wet ingredients** in a separate bowl—whisk together the pumpkin puree, maple syrup (or honey), melted coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
4. **Mix the wet and dry ingredients**—carefully fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined, taking care not to overmix.
5. **Incorporate the pecans, pepitas, and any optional extras** to ensure even distribution.
6. **Fill the muffin cups** about three-quarters full with the batter. Top with extra pepitas for added crunch.
7. **Bake for 18-22 minutes**, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. **Cool and savor**—allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before moving them to a wire rack.
## **Storage Recommendations**
– Keep muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to **3 days**.
– Refrigerate them for up to **a week** for longer freshness.
– Freeze individually wrapped muffins for up to **3 months**—just thaw and warm them up before consuming.
## **Concluding Thoughts**
These **Pumpkin, Pecan, and Pepita Muffins** serve as a nutritious and satisfying snack suitable for any time of day. Whether you need a quick breakfast, a healthy nibble, or a delightful treat, these muffins deliver essential nutrients to keep you energized and fulfilled.
In challenging periods, engaging in small acts of self-care—like baking nourishing foods—can significantly enhance well-being. Give this recipe a try and relish a delicious, health-promoting delight!
Would you like more variations or substitutes for this recipe? Just let me know! 😊