Pumpkin Spice Coffee Creamer

Have you caught the pumpkin spice bug too? As soon as September hits and all the way through the holidays, I am all about pumpkin flavored everything: cakes, cookies, breads, and, of course, the infamous pumpkin spice latte! Unfortunately, I can’t afford a delectable $5 Starbucks creation everyday. This spiced pumpkin coffee creamer is the solution to all my woes.

The ingredients in this homemade creamer are simple and make me feel better about what I’m putting in my body than that icky orange coffee from Starbucks. It’s a wonderfully delicious way to welcome autumn!

You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, but here’s what you’ll need to get started:
2 cups half and half
3 tbs. pumpkin puree
2 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
4 tbs. maple syrup
3 tsp. vanilla extract
2 tsp. cinnamon
¼ tsp. nutmeg

1. Whisk the half and half, pumpkin, syrup, and pumpkin pie spice together over medium heat.
2. Once combined and warmed through, remove from heat and add vanilla. Pour into covered bowl and let set for 3 to 6 hours in fridge.
3. Using a strainer or sieve, transfer the cream into a jar, pitcher, or bottle of your choice. (Don’t skip this! It’s important!)

And there you have it! It’s quick and easy and will last quite a while in the fridge.

What other pumpkin recipes are you looking forward to this fall? I’ve got a loooong list of recipes I can’t wait to try! You can see what I’m looking forward to on my all things pumpkin Pinterest board. 

Espresso Cream Cheese

Bagels are definitely my favorite breakfast food. I usually put a little pad of butter on one half and a smear of regular cream cheese on the other. For those days when you just want an extra special treat, though, this coffee-infused cream cheese hits the spot!

I am a morning person through and through. Once my alarm clock goes off, I’m ready to get up and get going. For most people, I know this isn’t the case. The instant coffee mixed in this cream cheese should give you that extra perk to start your day off right! It’s also incredibly quick and easy. Whip it up the night before and you can have a to-go breakfast that makes you happy and wakes you up!

All you’ll need is:
4 ounces cream cheese, cubed
1 tablespoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon instant coffee granules
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Using a wooden spoon or spatula, stir and fold in all ingredients until thoroughly combined. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

So what do you think — easy enough?