Scratch Pumpkin Spice Muffins

Fall is just around the corner and what better way to celebrate than with warm, scratch pumpkin spice muffins.

This post contains affiliate links. Should you make a purchase through one of the link I provide I may receive a small percentage at no cost to you.

So today, I’m going to share one of my favorite things. Pumpkin spice muffins. They are delicious and they are very easy to make. Years ago, I was very intimidated by baking from scratch. These days, I rarely used boxed baking goods. Today I thought I would share a funny story before we get cooking. If you’d rather head strait for the recipe, I’ll put a jump link below.

Once Upon a Time in England

Right after I graduated high school I went to England where I studied art. I was only 18 years old and so many things in England were different. First of all they use the metric system there. So trying to figure out how to make things with grams, etc took a lot of practice. Also, their temperatures on the oven aren’t just in celsius, but they actually have gradients called “gas mark.” I was stunned when I looked on the oven and it read “gas mark 1, 2, 3, etc.”

Anyway, I hadn’t been there long and I want to bake a birthday cake for someone. I went into our small co-op grocery store and searched the aisles for cake mix. Finally, after I couldn’t find it, I asked someone who worked there. “Where are the cake mixes,” I asked. The poor guy stood there confused. He had no clue what I was talking about. “Cake mix? What is that, love?” I was equally confused. How could someone not understand what a cake mix was. I began to explain. He stopped me mid-sentence and said, “we have flour and chocolate powder.” After a few more times back and forth I realized there was no such thing there. It was the first time, I realized just how spoiled Americans really are. We have so many conveniences here and we still complain about doing things. Well, that was back in 1998. I’m sure it may be different now.

That experience though, was the first time I had to bake a cake from scratch. Now, I bake nearly everything from scratch, but initially, I was terrified by it.

Making Scratch Pumpkin Muffins

I know that not everyone is a fan of pumpkin spice. I personally don’t really care for pumpkin spice flavoring when it is artificial. However, I love pumpkin spice when it is fresh. That’s why I love my Slowcooker Pumpkin Spice Latte which uses fresh pumpkin! You don’t need any special equipment to make this recipe. Just a standard muffin tin. You can totally hand mix this recipe as well. No need for a beater or stand mixer.

Full disclaimer, I’ve never tried making this recipe with fresh pumpkin. I’ve always used canned pureed pumpkin. The most important technique with this recipe is that the dry ingredients and the wet ingredients will need to be mixed separately first. I have found that this helps reduce lumps. If you don’t do this, you will have to do a lot of mixing to get the lumps out. This results in tougher muffins. If you are new to making breads, let me explain. The more you mix or knead a bread, the stronger and tougher it becomes. Muffins should be fluffy, moist and soft. That means you don’t want to over mix. Mix just enough to fully combine ingredients.

This recipe calls for vegetable oil but I have found you can use melted coconut oil just fine. This recipe also calls for baking soda in lieu of baking powder similar to many banana bread recipes. Don’t worry. I promise it will come out perfectly.

Tip: Use an ice cream scoop to add your batter to your muffin tin

scratch pumpkin spice muffins

Scratch Pumpkin Spice Muffins

Mary Lentz
No need to run out to a bakery to get some pumpkin spice muffins. This easy scratch recipe is simple to make and will satisfy any pumpkin spice lover.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Course Breads, Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 12 muffins

Equipment

  • muffin tin
  • 2 mixing bowls
  • ice cream scoop
  • Spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 1 Cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1 ¾ Cups All purpose flour
  • 2 Tsp Ground Cinnamon
  • ½ Cup Light Brown Sugar
  • 1 Tsp Baking Soda
  • ½ Tsp Salt
  • ¼ Tsp Ground cloves
  • 2 Large Eggs
  • ¼ Tsp Ground Nutmeg
  • 15 oz Pureed pumpkin (1 can)
  • ½ Cup Vegetable oil
  • 1 Tsp Vanilla Extract

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 375°
  • Line your standard sized muffin tin with cupcake liners or grease with cooking spray
  • You will need to mix your wet and dry ingredients separately so prevent lumps and to keep the bread soft. In a large bowl, combine your flour, sugar, spices, salt and baking soda together. Set aside.
  • In a small bowl, add your, pumpkin, oil and vanilla and whisk well until egg is well combined.
  • Add your wet ingredients to your dry ingredients and using a spatula, lightly mix until they are combined and flour pockets are gone. Do not over mix.
  • Using a cookie scoop or ice cream scoop, scoop batter into prepared muffin wells. They should be filled up about ¾ full.
  • Place in the middle of the oven and bake for 20 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.
  • Let cool for ten minutes before serving.
Keyword bakery style, breakfast muffins, comfort food, fall, fall desserts, fall muffins, fruit muffin, pumpkin, pumpkin spice

Variations

If you want you can also do some variations.

Pumpkin-Chocolate Chip

Turn your regular muffins into chocolate chip ones by adding a half cup of semi sweet chocolate chips

Brown Sugar Glaze

  • 1 tbsp butter
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 3 tbsp milk
  • ¼ cup chopped pecans

To make the glaze, add all your ingredients to a small sauce pan. Bring to a boil for 1-2 minutes before

Cream Cheese Icing

  • ½ cup butter
  • 8 oz softened cream cheese
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Add your softened cream cheese, softened butter and vanilla into a stand mixer and and mix on medium with a paddle attachment. Lower speed and slowly add your powdered sugar one cup at a time until fully combined.

Other variations

You can also create different varieties by adding a half cup to one cup of any mix in such as chocolate chips, cranberries, or nuts. I’d start with a half cup and add more if desired. Some times add ins can be overwhelming so I suggest starting with a half cup first.

Scratch pumpkin spice muffins

I hope you enjoy this recipe. This makes for a yummy fall breakfast or even afternoon snack for the kiddos. Be sure also to take a look at my Fall Bucket List before you leave.

30 Reflective Fall Journaling Prompts

Let’s get cozy! Curl up with your journal and use these 30 reflective fall journaling prompts to explore your feelings.

30 reflective fall journal prompts

Fall is such a lovely season. After the scorching days of summer, who isn’t ready for crunchy leaves, bonfires, football and pumpkin spice everything? Fall is always an emotional month for me. I start craving family time and the fresh outdoors. Here in South Central Texas, we don’t have a lot of changing of leaves. We end up driving to Marble Falls or Lost Maples, TX to see the red and gold foliage that other states get so easily.

But Autumn also brings some other deeper feelings. For instance, as we enter the Fall and head towards holidays, it also conjures up other feelings that are just beneath the surface. It’s the time of year I experience grief. The holidays usher in the thoughts of the people who are gone and are no longer here with us. It always seems to catch me off guard even though it happens every year. I miss my grandmothers, particularly in the months of September and November. Also, if I am being really honest, it makes me contemplate the time I have left with my parents and those around me. I told you it was deep stuff!

Fall is a great time to reflect on change, the necessity of family and friends and for Americans in particular, it’s a time to reflect on gratitude. So today I decided to come up with some Fall journaling prompts. Hopefully, they help you explore your feelings privately and give you some perspective.

fall journal prompts
Photo courtesy of Pexels

Will 2020 Be Different

You know, it always seemed to me like more people died in the Fall and Winter than any other time. My mom used to say it was God’s harvest season. That may sound silly, but apparently it’s true. Deaths slightly escalate during the Fall and Winter months mostly because of the sicknesses that are prominent in colder months like Influenza and inclement weather which can cause more accidents.

2020 has been an exceptionally hard year for the world. When I heard about the virus in Wuhan, China back in January, I never would have guessed it would sweep the globe and cause all the hardship it has. So far, I have buried two people from it. I wonder how the colder months will affect the transmission of the virus. I anticipate spikes in cases again.

If I start thinking about it too long, I can become anxious. It has been hard to be apart from the majority of my family this year. The hardest part is my children. They are too young to really understand why we don’t see much family and friends anymore. This year I plan on coming up with lots of activities we can do at home. By the way, if you’d like some ideas on things to do in the Fall as a family, be sure to read my post, The Best Fall Bucket List. Also, one thing I love to when I’m journaling in the Fall is to make a pot of my Slowcooker Pumpkin Spice Latte. It’s so good and uses pumpkin puree instead of artificial flavors.

In the comments below, tell me what you love most about Fall. Thanks for reading.

Signature

30 Reflective Fall Journal Prompts

  1. What is worrying you right now? Don’t censor yourself.
  2. As a relaxing exercise, doodle things that remind you of Fall.
  3. Give yourself permission to look forward to things. Write a list and don’t worry about whether or not they will actually happen.
  4. Write a letter to your anxious thoughts.
  5. Of what do you need to let go? What would happen if you stopped holding onto it?
  6. Describe a favorite Fall memory.
  7. What do you do when you are feeling lost?
  8. Write a letter to someone who has passed away.
  9. How do your Autumn traditions differ now from when you were a child?
  10. How can you be closer to friends and family this Fall in spite of the Coronavirus pandemic?
  11. Write out a playlist of songs that remind you of Fall then give yourself to listen to it.
  12. Create a happy list. Write out a list of activities or places that lift your mood.
  13. Write a letter to someone who has made your life better.
  14. How is your life different from one year ago today?
  15. How does Fall inspire you?
  16. If you could travel anywhere to experience Fall where would you go and why?
  17. Describe a perfect Fall evening.
  18. Where do you see yourself this time next year?
  19. Will your Fall traditions change because or Coronavirus? Why or why not?
  20. What can you do to reconnect with nature this Fall?
  21. What has been the worst part of this year?
  22. Be your own best friend. Write an encouraging letter to yourself.
  23. If today was your last day, what would you do?
  24. What do you need more of in life? Less of?
  25. What are the silver linings about this year so far?
  26. Think back to your favorite Thanksgiving. Describe the scene.
  27. What scares you most about change?
  28. Create your own Fall bucket list.
  29. Describe your favorite Halloween memory.
  30. What scary movie scared you as a child? Why?

Other Journaling Posts

Printable Halloween Memory Game

Keep your little one busy and improve their short term memory with this FREE printable Halloween memory game.

printable halloween memory game

We are just a few weeks away from Halloween and today, I’m sharing another FREE printable with you. If you are looking for a quick, fun way to pass the time I’ve got something for you. I love making memory games for my preschooler. It’s a simple game that he has really grown to love.

I love getting my preschooler to do it at the kitchen table while I make dinner. It’s a great boredom buster and I don’t actually have to sit down with him to play.

Benefits of Memory Game

Playing memory games has lots of benefits for your child. Some of those benefits include:

  • Trains short term memory
  • Builds vocabulary
  • Practice problem solving
  • Trains visual memory
  • Improves concentration
  • Improves ability to classify objects based on similarities and differences
  • Practice following directions

To find similarities, your child will look for similarities in size, shape and color. This skill is actually an early math skill. They’ll need this skill to find patterns and sequences in numbers.

Free Printable Halloween Memory Game

How to Use Your Free Printable Halloween Memory Game

  1. Download the file to your computer

  2. Use Adobe Acrobat or other PDF viewing software to open

  3. Open file and print on card stock or paper

    For added durability consider printing on card stock and laminating.

  4. Trim following the lines provided

  5. Mix them up and place them face down in rows

  6. Take turns lifting two at a time until a match is found.

Have a wonderful and safe Halloween, friends! Don’t forget to pin this post for later. Also, check out some of my other free printables here! Share this post with your friends. Thanks for reading.

Monster Halloween Gift Tags

Halloween is upon us and I’m sharing these cute monster halloween gift tags, perfect for all your spooktacular gifts and treats.

monster halloween gift tags

This post may contain affiliate links. Should you click or make a purchase through one of the links, I may receive a small percentage at no cost to you. Your support helps me offset the costs associated with this blog.

Halloween is here and today I’m sharing a FREE printable! I know how much my readers love the free printables (Thank you for telling me!) and so I’ve made a cute set of Monster Halloween gift tags for you to use. Personally, I love using these on treat bags, but you can use them on basically anything you want.

This year I used them on party goody bags, snack mix treats for school and soap and hand-sanitizer gifts for our teachers. I even put this on a bottle of wine I took to a party! Get creative and use them on any kind of gift-giving you do this Halloween.

monster halloween gift tags

Download Now

The monster halloween gift tags are in a pdf file. You’ll need Adobe Acrobat or some other pdf viewing software to use them. Just print them out, trim, hole punch and tie around your gift or treat. I recommend printing them on white card stock paper for best results. Enjoy!

I’d love to see how you use them. If you are on Instagram, be sure to snap a pic and tag me at @my_beautiful_mess_blog

If you’re looking for an awesome treat, you need to try my Monster Munch Snack Mix. It’s so easy to make and the best part is it can be a fun Fall activity to do with your kids. Also if you are looking for other fun Fall things to do, take a look at my Fall Bucket List. It’s a great way to make to celebrate Autumn and make it extra special.

Monster Munch Snack Mix

Peanut butter and chocolate are the showstoppers in this yummy sweet and salty monster munch snack mix perfect for Halloween entertaining!

Monster Munch snack mix

This post contains affiliate links. Should you click or make a purchase through one of the links I provide, I may receive a small percentage at no cost to you. You support helps me offset the costs associated with this blog.

Happy Halloween, friend! I love Halloween. It’s so much fun even as an adult to decorate the house, dress up and make some spooktacular treats! That’s why I’m sharing one of my favorite Halloween goodies – Monster Munch Snack Mix.

I love making this with the kids and putting it out at our Halloween parties and events. It’s always loved by kids and adults alike and I’m always left with an empty bowl. I also make it and package it in cello bags as a treat for my son’s classmates and teachers at school.

Making Monster Munch Snack Mix

If you have kids, I highly recommend getting them involved. Kids love to help with cooking and since there is no actual cooking involved, this is a really fun activity. All you’re going to do is pour everything in a bowl and toss together. Even your toddler can help with that. I love doing this with our kids as part of our Ultimate Fall Bucket List.

Monster munch snack mix

This recipe calls for a mix of sweet and salty ingredients and really centers around peanut butter and chocolate flavors. It includes both Reese’s peanut butter cups and Reese’s pieces. It also includes Chex Muddy Buddies. I have found that Muddy Buddies can be hard to source at times. Sometimes my store has them and sometimes they don’t. Thank God for Amazon Pantry! I’ve included a link on Amazon in case you can’t find it at your store.

monster munch snack mix

Monster Munch Snack Mix

Ingredients
  

  • 1 10.5 oz Chex Muddy Buddies
  • 1 14 oz Bugles Corn Chips
  • 1 7 oz Mini Reese's Cup
  • 1 4 oz Reese's Pieces Candy
  • 1 11 oz Candy Corn
  • 1 5 oz Pretzel Mini Twists

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, combine all ingredients and toss well.
  • Serve in a bowl or wrap as individual treats.

I hope you enjoyed this Monster Munch Snack Mix. Be sure to check in for the next post for some cute Monster Halloween gift tags. These are super fun for packaging your monster munch snack mix. Also, try another fun fall activity like listening to a Halloween Music Playlist!

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25 Fabulous Fall Finds on Amazon

I’ve done a lot of the hard work for you! Here are 25 Fabulous Fall Finds on Amazon to get you ready for Autumn!

This post contains affiliate links. Should you make a purchase through one of the links I provide, I may receive a small percentage at no cost to you. Your support helps to offset the costs associated with this blog.

25 fabulous fall amazon finds

Yay! It’s fall, y’all. I adore Fall. It’s my favorite season and I love to decorate and get into the Fall season. Today, I’m rounding up 25 Fabulous Fall Finds on Amazon. Many of these items I have personally bought myself and others are on my wish list for this year. I’ve done a lot of the hard work for you by putting some of the best items here in one place.

Click on the link or picture to purchase!

25 Fabulous Fall Amazon Finds

1. Fall Plaid Blanket Scarf

It wouldn’t’ be Fall without donning the perfect Fall accessory – a plaid Fall scarf. Sweater weather calls for it. This beautiful plaid blanket scarf is just a mere $12.99 and comes in a variety of plaid shades.

2. Fall “Hello Pumpkin” Doormat

There is nothing quite so pretty and inviting as a Fall porch. Make an entrance statement with this cute “Hello, Pumpkin” Door Mat. I love the look of layered doormats particularly with a black buffalo plaid mat underneath.

3. Fall Olive Wreath

If you’re looking for a more natural look, this Olive Wreath is beautiful and classy. I think it pairs really well with a Buffalo Plaid layered door mat. This one has some of the better reviews and retails for $49.99 and is Prime eligible.

4. Rae Dunn Inspired Mug

Rae Dunn without the price? Yes, please. This super cute “Sweater Weather” mug is not eligible for Amazon prime, but its only $8.95 and has FREE shipping. I totally bought one for my sipping my pumpkin lattes this year. You could also use it to decorate a Farmhouse tiered tray.

5. Buffalo Check Table Runner

It wouldn’t be a Fall dining table without a gorgeous black and white buffalo plaid runner. The best part? It’s under $10! They also have it in grey check, orange and black check and even red and black check for Christmas time. My dining table looks adorable with it!

6. Buffalo Plaid Throw Pillows

Yes, more plaid. Can you tell I love it? These cute plaid throw pillows come in variety of sizes from 16×16″ to 26×26″ and a variety of shades including red and black for Christmas. What’s nice is that they come as a pair and they are just $10.99!

7. Pumpkin Patch Pillow Cover Set

If plaid isn’t you’re thing, don’t worry. I’ve got you covered. I found this super cute set of Fall Farmhouse Pillow Covers. It’s just the pillow covers (not the inserts) and comes in 18×18″ for just $18.99 for 4 different coordinating covers.

8. Wooden Welcome Porch Sign

I’ve seen this floating all over Pinterest and I love it. It’s a cute wooden “welcome” sign for the porch. Just lean it near the front door. So cute. It would look great with pumpkins and that Hello Pumpkin doormat. Just sayin! It retails for $59.99 which is the same price I’ve seen on Etsy.

9. Fall Burlap Bunting

Seriously, bunting is the quickest way to make anything feel festive. That’s why I love this Fall Burlap Bunting. You can hang it across your mantle, over your dining or entertaining area, even take it outside for Fall entertaining. Just $10.99 and Prime eligible.

10. Galvanized “Gather” Sign

I love my galvanized gather sign. It’s one of the first things you see when you walk through my front door and I’ve received several compliments. The sign measures 23.5×11″ and is $19.99.

11. Double Sided Letter Board

I’m in love with this double sided letter board, y’all! I love having mine up. Every day I put a inspirational quote, mantra or funny saying. It also makes a great prop for photos on Facebook and Instagram. This one has a rustic farmhouse look and comes with some modern calligraphy letters and letters in white and gold. So pretty!

12. Wooden Nesting Crates

These cute Fall nesting crates are great for all kinds of things. Obviously, you can use them for decor around the house and filling with Fall florals and objects. But they also make a great photo prop in Fall photos. Since these are white, you can use them all year round.

13. Resin Thankful & Blessed Pumpkin

How cute is this? I found this beautiful Thankful & Blessed resin pumpkin and I’m totally getting it! I love the beautiful gold modern calligraphy! Just $18 and Prime eligible.

14. Rustic Pillar Candle Holders

I love these rustic wooden pillar candle holders. These are so cute on a coffee table, mantle or even on your dining table. It comes as a set of 3 in varying heights and is $31.63 on Prime.

15. Copper Moscow Mule Mugs

I love my set of copper Moscow Mule mugs. Yes, they’re typically for an amazing Moscow Mule cocktail, but I’ve used them to serve guests all kinds of things like hot chocolate, hot toddies, and warm apple cider. They’re always festive and charming. This comes as a set of 4 and are the classic hammered style.

16. Warm Fairy Lights

About a year ago, I discovered how to decorate with fairy lights and these warm fairy lights are one of my favorites. These are waterproof so you can even use them outdoors for an occasion. I like using them on my mantle and twirling them inside my mercury glass pumpkins. So pretty! This is 33 ft (100 lights).

17. Crocheted Boot Cuffs

One thing I love about Fall? Boots!! And who doesn’t love some cute boot cuffs to go with them? These crocheted boot cuffs come as a set of four in neutral colors – black, grey, cream, and beige. They offer different sets too. Some have button accents, tassels and different crochet patterns. They stretchy so they work with both short and long boots. Adorbs! Just $15.99 for the set of four.

18. Hunter Snow Boots

Speaking of boots – it’s boot season and one of my favorites is Hunter snow boots. These boots are great not just for snow, but for wet weather. They have a rubber sole for slip resistance. I love the classic black, but I have to admit that the Hunter Green version is my favorite!

19. Orange Fall Throw Blanket

The hubby and I love cuddling up by the fire in the fall and having a soft throw blanket is a must. If you need to refresh your throw blankets we love this super soft orange throw blanket which comes in seven different colors.

20. Farmhouse Blanket Ladder

What a cute way to showcase those beautiful Fall throw blankets than with this gorgeous rustic farmhouse blanket ladder. Just lean against the wall with a favorite throw.

21. Buffalo Plaid Apron

One of the things I love about Fall is all the amazing comfort food! So why not look cute making it? I bought this beautiful buffalo plaid apron. Whether you’re entertaining or just want to protect your clothes while you cook or clean, this apron is adorable. It actually comes in seven different plaid colors and it’s just $13 on Prime.

22. Wooden Candle Lantern

Because you can never have enough candles going in the Fall, I discovered this cute neutral colored wooden candle lantern. This makes a great addition to any table or mantle. But this lantern is suitable for both indoor and outdoor decor.

23. Eucalyptus Silk Garland

Eucalyptus is such a versatile botanical. I love using it during the Fall. This pretty eucalyptus silk garland is beautiful on a buffalo plaid or burlap runner. Just add cream pumpkins and candles for an instant elegant Fall tablescape.

24. Burlap Ruffle Placemats

These sweet burlap ruffle placemats almost look like chargers. They are a beautiful addition to a Fall dining table yet versatile enough to use throughout the year. These burlap ruffle placemats come in three different sizes up to 20″

25. Thankful Wooden Pallet Sign

This lovely “Thankful” sign is great to nestle into your Fall decor. It’s roughly 24″ x 7″ and is on solid pine.

That’s it! Those are my favorite top 25 fabulous Fall finds on Amazon. I hope you have a wonderful Fall. Be sure to tune in late November for my favorite Christmas Amazon finds! Until next time.

5 Fall Printables to Help You Decorate

Decorating for Fall just got easier than ever with these 5 Fall printables to help you decorate now available in the My Beautiful Mess Etsy shop.

5 fall printables to help you decorate

I love Fall. It’s actually my favorite season. The crunchy leaves. Warm fires. Pumpkin Spice everything. Yes, please. Decorating for Fall is one of my favorite things. On September 1, I’m ready to throw the decor up. Thankfully, my husband talks some sense into to wait until the end of September!

I love making printables to decorate with. Printables are images that you can print at home and frame yourself. For larger sizes, you can email them to your local print shop (like Office Max) or photo center (Shutterfly, Walgreens, etc). Then you take them home and frame them. You can use them year after year. If something happens to it, you can always print it again. It’s yours to keep forever.

I make and sell lots of printables on my Etsy shop. Today, I’m sharing 5 Fall printables to help you decorate.

Farmhouse Pumpkin Patch

Farmhouse signs are all the rage and I’ve made this cute pumpkin patch sign just for you! I mean who doesn’t love a pumpkin patch sign. When you purchase it, you’ll get it in two sizes – 11×14″ and 16×20.”

Harvest Truck Pumpkin Patch

Here is a different take on the pumpkin patch sign – a good old fashioned pickup truck full of harvest pumpkins! When you purchase this sign you’ll get it in two sizes – 11×14″ and 16×20.”

Pumpkin Patch Printable

Buffalo Plaid Fall Words

These are the things that immediately make me thing of fall. Over the last few years, I’ve fall in love with text signs. So I’ve decided to make this one and now I’m sharing it with you! When you purchase this cute sign you’ll get two 8×10 versions. One in PDF and the other in JEPG.

5 Fall printables to help you decorate

It’s Fall Y’all

Who doesn’t love Buffalo Check? I’ve made this chic Southern style pumpkin sign. I have mine in a distressed wooden sign for a Farmhouse look. When you purchase it on Etsy, you’ll get two files to print in an 8×10″ – one in JPEG format and another in PDF.

It's Fall Y'all Printable

Take Me To The Pumpkin Patch

I love plaid! That’s why I made this cute orange buffalo plaid pumpkin patch sign with lovely watercolor pumpkins in fall colors. This cute printable is available in a landscape 8×10″ size in JPEG format.

Check Out All My Printables

From printable signs and planners to handmade cards. Take a look at everything on the My Beautiful Mess Etsy Shop.

Looking for more printables? Take a look at my FREE printable page and don’t forget to subscribe to my blog where I send out a FREE printable every single month!

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Slowcooker Pumpkin Spice Latte

It’s fall, y’all! It’s pumpkin spice season and I’m sharing my favorite, natural, super easy slowcooker pumpkin spice latte.

pumpkin spice latte

I have a confession, for years as soon as it was September, I headed over to Starbucks for a pumpkin latte. Living in Texas, we don’t have much of a Fall here, but that doesn’t stop me from enjoying all things Autumn (Check out my Fall Bucket List here). I love them so much that I decided to try making them at home. Today I’m sharing one of my most favorite recipes of all time. Slowcooker Pumpkin Spice Latte.

I’m not always a huge fan of pumpkin spice stuff. I mean, seriously, can we all agree that pumpkin spice tortilla chips have gone too far? So when I say I love this pumpkin spice recipe, you can trust me. It is perfect for crisp autumn mornings in your PJs or you can even take it with you in a thermos for a hike. Personally, I love making a decaf version for evenings by the fire or outdoor bonfire.

Ingredients

To make this recipe, you’ll start by brewing a strong carafe of your favorite coffee. If you want really good coffee, consider grinding your own beans. and using bottled water to brew your coffee. Using quality ingredients, is what really makes a good cup of coffee.

My favorite thing about this recipe is that it calls for canned pumpkin. I discovered this recipe many years ago and I wasn’t a huge fan of pumpkin spice because I had always had it with artificial flavoring. This recipe uses natural canned pumpkin so it isn’t overpowering. Just a lovely, subtle taste of pumpkin. I also prefer using cinnamon sticks to ground cinnamon. If you use ground spices, it floats upward and then accumulates on the top of your coffee, so keep ground spices to a minimum.

For this recipe, I prefer using whole milk even though I’m a typically 2% girl. I think the texture just seems to be better. If you’d like it richer, you may use half and half. If you are serving for a dinner party or if you plan on having several cups of it, you can always brew decaffeinated coffee or do half-caff. Its perfect for dinner parties and Thanksgiving so coffee is always ready with dessert.

Slowcooker Pumpkin Spice latte

Serving & Storing

This pumpkin latte is divine. I make it for all occasions, but it’s especially good for entertaining. You can certainly make it over a stove, but I love doing it in a slow cooker. Guests can serve themselves. Best of all, because you are making it in a slow cooker, it stays hot. Did I mention the house smells delicious too?  The aroma of cinnamon is just lovely in the house when this is in the slow cooker. While we are discussing coffee, if you are looking for a great coffee maker, you need to look into the NINJA Coffee Bar. It is awesome. It brews six different sizes including a full carafe and multiple single-serve sizes. It also has a milk frother and has a cold brew setting. I bought it to replace a Keurig that died after less than a year of owning and I’ll never look back!

I love serving it in beautiful mugs with whipped cream, pumpkin pie spice on top, and a cinnamon stick, but you can make it as fancy or as casual as you want. I will add that I have found this does not store well. So I recommend making a fresh batch instead of warming up again.

Slowcooker Pumpkin Spice Latte

This recipe is great for everyday entertaining. It’s a simple fall recipe you make ahead of time for a crowd. It combines hot coffee and milk with fresh pumpkin and fall spices. 
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Course Drinks
Servings 10

Ingredients
  

  • 12 Cups Coffee Hot, Strongly Brewed
  • 6 Cups Whole Milk or Half and Half
  • 3 Cinnamon Sticks
  • 1 Tbsp Pumpkin Pie Spice
  • 2 Tbsp Vanilla Extract
  • 1 Cup Granulated Sugar
  • 1 Cup Pumpkin Puree Canned

Instructions
 

  • Add milk and vanilla to warm crockpot 
  • Add strongly brewed coffee ( I use a French press to control the strength)
  • Add sugar, stirring well
  • Add pumpkin puree and stir frequently until fully incorporated
  • Cover and cook on high. It reaches peak temperature within 2 hours. 
  • (Optional) Serve with whipped cream, pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon stick

Notes

Notes: For a sugar-free option, Splenda does well in lieu of sugar. For late night serving, you can use decaffeinated coffee. 
Keyword autumn, coffee for a crowd, crockpot, drinks, entertaining, fall, latte, pumpkin, slowcooker, spice

Looking for other great fall recipes? Try Zuppa Toscana Soup Don’t forget to subscribe to my blog for other easy recipes! Don’t forget to PIN this post for later!

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Slowcooker Pumpkin Spice Latte first appeared on My Beautiful Mess

slow cooker pumpkin spice latte

The Best Fall Bucket List: 50 Fun Ways to Celebrate Autumn

Crackling fires. Football. Chilly nights. Pumpkin spice everything! Welcome Fall with The Best Fall Bucket List: 50 Fun Ways to Celebrate Autumn.

The best fall bucket list

My husband and I started a tradition when we got married. We have a Christmas advent calendar. For 25 days, we celebrate Christmas by doing something Christmas or winter related every day. I can honestly say, it absolutely gets us out of our rut and into the spirit. It’s a great way to spend quality time together and to make memories.

So this year, I decided to do the same thing with fall. It’s been so much fun and the kids love it too. Here are 50 ideas that you can do to get that into the Autumn mood.

Also, I’m giving away a free printable to help you plan your fun-filled Autumn Calendar. You’ll need to make sure you have Adobe Acrobat or other pdf viewing software to view and print it.

The Best Fall Bucket List

  1. Take a Nature Hike
  2. Make a Fall Wreath
  3. Decorate Pumpkins
  4. Watch a football game
  5. Drink Spiced Pumpkin Latte (my recipe here)
  6. Go Black Friday shopping
  7. Visit a Haunted House
  8. Make a Costume
  9. Make & Drink Hot Apple Cider
  10. Decorate Your Porch for Fall
  11. Go Camping
  12. Stargaze in Your Backyard
  13. Plant Fall Flowers
  14. Bake Pumpkin Bread
  15. Watch a Scary Movie
  16. Go Apple Picking
  17. Visit a Pumpkin Patch
  18. Build a Bon Fire
  19. Read a Scary Story
  20. Try a New Fall Recipe
  21. Explore a Corn Maze
  22. Roast Pumpkin Seeds
  23. Light a Fall Candle
  24. Look at the Fall Foliage
  25. Plant Fall Vegetables
  26. Go On a Hayride
  27. Start a Gratitude List
  28. Make a Fall Floral Arrangement
  29. Decorate Your Mantle for Fall
  30. Visit a Farmers Market
  31. Roast Marshmallows in the Fire
  32. Read by the Fireplace
  33. Play Touch Football
  34. Make Carmel Apples
  35. Bake Fall Themed Sugar Cookies
  36. Plan a Fall Family Photo Shoot
  37. Bake a Pumpkin Pie
  38. Play In the Leaves
  39. Attend a Fall Festival
  40. Make S’mores
  41. Attend a Halloween Party
  42. Go Trick or Treating
  43. Have Fun Apple Bobbing
  44. Bake an Apple Pie
  45. Visit a cemetery
  46. Learn the Thriller Dance
  47. Listen to Halloween Themed Music (playlist here)
  48. Build a Scarecrow
  49. Make Caramel Corn
  50. Try a New Fall Craft

Thank you for reading. Don’t forget to PIN this post for later and share it on your Facebook wall. Also, before you leave please subscribe to my blog for future posts, giveaways and FREE printable every month.

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The Ultimate Halloween Party Playlist

Looking to take your Halloween party to the next level? Try this Ultimate Halloween Party Playlist, a creepy curated song list for your next spooktacular event!

Ultimate Halloween Party Playlist

I love Halloween. The costumes, the candy, the fun food made to look like insects and bones. Seriously, how fun is that? I love Halloween and not because I get to live out my Walking Dead fantasy (yes, I love zombies with a passion). I throw a Halloween party as often as I possibly can. For years I struggled trying to find Halloween themed music, but after much trial and error, I think I’ve found a good mix!

So today, I’m sharing my Ultimate Halloween Party Playlist. I’ve done the work for you compiling a list of old school and new songs that make for a great party atmosphere.

These days, it’s easy to find playlists on applications like Spotify, Apple ITunes, and Pandora, but if you’re looking to DIY it, here you go! I’m sure this will help get creepy party vibes!

The Ultimate Halloween Party Playlist

  • Thriller, Michael Jackson
  • Ghostbusters, Ray Parker Jr.
  • Witchy Woman, The Eagles
  • Bad Moon Rising, CCR
  • Psycho Killer, Talking Heads
  • Sympathy For the Devil, Guns & Roses
  • Special Death, Mirah
  • I Put A Spell On You, Screamin’ Jay Hawkins
  • Devil Inside, INXS
  • Love Potion Number 9, The Searchers
  • Spooky, Classics IV
  • The Addams Family Theme, Vic Mizzy
  • Werewolves in London, Warren Zevon
  • Twisted Nerve, The City of Prague Philharmonic
  • Devil Went Down to Georgia, Charlie Daniels
  • Black Magic Woman, Santana
  • Nightmare, Artie Shaw
  • Superstition, Stevie Wonder
  • Ghost Town, The Specials
  • Time Warp, Little Nell, Patricia Quinn, Richard O’Brien (from Rocky Horror Picture Show)
  • Monster Mash, Bobby “Boris” Pickett & the Crypt Kickers
  • Season of the Witch, Donovan
  • Weird Science, Oingo Boingo
  • Freakshow, Britney Spears
  • Somebody’s Watching Me, Rockwell
  • The Boogey Monster, Gnarls Barkley
  • The Imperial March, John Williams (from Star Wars)
  • In the Midnight Hour, Wilson Pickett
  • Super Freak, Rick James
  • Out of Limits, The Marketts
  • American Horror Story Theme, Cesar Davila-Irizarry & Charlie Clouser
  • Witch Doctor, David Seville
  • Beetlejuice Theme, Danny Elfman
  • Evil Ways, Santana
  • Jump In the Line, Harry Belafonte
  • Little Red Riding Hood, Sam “The Sham” & The Pharaohs
  • Hedwigs Theme, John Williams (from Harry Potter & The Chamber of Secrets)
  • Jaws Theme, John Williams
  • Frankenstein, The Edgar Winter Group

Take a look another music playlist in the post Classic Rock Mornings: Your Sunday Playlist

The post, The Ultimate Halloween Party Playlist, first appeared on My Beautiful Mess