Fall is in the air, and what better way to celebrate the season than with a warm, comforting cup of coffee enhanced by the magical flavors of pumpkin spice? Forget those expensive store-bought creamers loaded with artificial ingredients; today, we're making our own delicious and healthy pumpkin spice creamer from scratch! This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts, those seeking quick dinner additions (it’s great with oatmeal too!), and anyone who appreciates a delicious, healthy meal addition.
Ingredients:
- 1 (12-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk (refrigerated overnight)
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (or honey, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
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Chill the coconut milk: This step is crucial! Refrigerate your can of coconut milk overnight. This allows the cream to separate from the water, resulting in a richer, creamier creamer.
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Scoop out the coconut cream: Carefully open the can of chilled coconut milk. You'll find a thick layer of solidified coconut cream on top. Scoop this out using a spoon and place it in a blender. Leave the watery liquid behind – you can save it for smoothies!
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Blend the ingredients: Add the pumpkin puree, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla extract, and salt to the blender with the coconut cream.
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Blend until smooth: Blend on high speed until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy. Scrape down the sides of the blender as needed.
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Taste and adjust: Taste the creamer and adjust the sweetness and spices to your preference. You might want more maple syrup for extra sweetness or a dash more pumpkin pie spice for a stronger flavor.
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Store and enjoy: Pour the pumpkin spice creamer into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will thicken slightly as it chills. This homemade creamer lasts for about a week in the refrigerator. Enjoy it in your coffee, tea, or even oatmeal!
Cooking Tips for the Best Pumpkin Spice Creamer:
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Use full-fat coconut milk: This will result in the creamiest creamer. The fat content is key to that rich, decadent texture.
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Don't skip chilling the coconut milk: This step is essential for separating the cream from the water, creating a much thicker and more flavorful creamer.
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Adjust sweetness to your liking: Maple syrup is a healthier alternative to refined sugar, but feel free to adjust the amount based on your preference.
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Experiment with spices: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger for a unique twist on the classic pumpkin spice flavor.
Variations:
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Dairy-free option: This recipe is already naturally dairy-free, thanks to the coconut milk.
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Vegan option: Ensure your maple syrup is vegan-friendly.
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Spiced it up: Add a dash of cayenne pepper for a warm kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact ingredients used. For a general estimate, one serving (about 2 tablespoons) contains approximately:
- Calories: 100-120
- Fat: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g
- Protein: 1-2g
This delicious and easy pumpkin spice creamer recipe is a perfect addition to your fall baking and coffee routine. It's a healthy alternative to store-bought creamers, and the homemade touch adds a special something to your favorite autumnal beverages. Enjoy!