* Pumpkin Power *
Due Date: Monday, October 31st- "Pumpkin Power!" Here's your chance to share your Jack-o'-lantern masterpieces! Don't do Halloween? Then how about sharing a recipe with pumpkins or any other craft or useful idea for pumpkins? I actually have a great link where you can carve a pumpkin with flower patterns so they can be lovely fall lanterns. I also know a few blog friends who are raising pumpkins so here's your chance to show off your pumpkin babies.
I decided to try using one of the flower patterns from Sunset Magazine's website. Rather than cut all the way through the pumpkin, peel away the tough outer layer and allow the pith underneath to remain. The contrasting shades of orange will stand out during the day. Use a battery- operated light to make it glow golden at night. Here's my sunflower pumpkin...
~ Pumpkin, Raisin and Ginger Cookies ~
1 (14-oz.) pkg. Pillsbury®
Pumpkin Quick Bread & Muffin Mix*
1/2 cup cinnamon-covered raisins or plain raisins
1/4 cup chopped crystallized ginger
1/2 cup butter or margarine, melted
1 egg
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1. Heat oven to 350°F. In large
bowl, combine quick bread mix, raisins and ginger; mix well. Add butter
and egg; stir until dry particles are moistened. (Mixture may be crumbly.)
2. In small bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon; mix well. Shape dough into
1 1/2-inch balls; roll in sugar-cinnamon mixture. Place 2 inches apart
on ungreased cookie sheets.
3. Bake at 350°F. for 12 to 15 minutes or until cookies are set. Remove
from cookie sheets.
Prep Time: 15 min (Ready in 45 min )
Makes: 20 cookies
~ Roasted Pumpkin Seeds ~
To roast raw pumpkin seeds (which are rich in vitamin E, iron, magnesium and zinc,) remove them from the pumpkin and remove any strings and pulp. Blot dry. Place in a bowl, add a few drops of olive oil and toss. Spread out on a baking sheet and sprinkle with spices of your choice and a little salt. Roast at 350 degrees for about 25-35 minutes or until golden and crisp, tossing occasionally. Do not let them get dark or they will turn bitter. Cool and store in an airtight container. Eat as snacks or toss into salads or soups.
