While gobbler and hen appear to be relaxed and enjoying the October sun, the wild birds are a reminder that it’s only days before Thanksgiving.
Whether you’re enjoying a cozy meal with loved ones, reflecting on what you’re thankful for, or simply relaxing, the Trail Times is grateful to all our readers and wishes you a peaceful and happy Thanksgiving.
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Here's an easy Pumpkin Pie Loaf recipe that captures the warm flavours of autumn.
Ingredients:
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
2 tsp pumpkin pie spice (or use 1 tsp cinnamon, ¼ tsp nutmeg, ¼ tsp ginger, and ⅛ tsp cloves)
1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar, packed
½ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ cup milk or buttermilk
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Optional Toppings:
Chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
Pumpkin seeds
Streusel topping (for a crumbly top)
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Instructions:
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and pumpkin pie spice.
Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil (or melted butter), eggs, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth.
Combine: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.
Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. If using optional toppings, sprinkle them on top of the batter now.
Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre of the loaf comes out clean.
Cool: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Slice and Enjoy: Slice the loaf once it's fully cooled and enjoy it with your favourite fall beverages.
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This Pumpkin Pie Loaf stays moist and flavourful for several days, making it a great option for breakfast, dessert, or a snack.
You can also freeze individual slices for later.