“Pump” It Up!

So after watching an amazing episode of Grey’s Anatomy and doing some reading for a class, I decided I should bake. I bought a can of pumpkin during the winter thinking I would use it for something, but I opened our pantry tonight and there it was, still unopened. At first I was going to make mini muffins to have as a snack option. In the end, however, I decided to go all the way and make six big muffins that I can have for breakfast options instead! I’ve dubbed them “Pump” It Up Muffins – thanks to the extra “power” provided by oats and flax. I hope that’s a somewhat original name!

Here’s what I used:

• 1 cup old fashioned oats
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 tbsp. baking powder
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/2 cup applesauce
• 1 can pumpkin
• 1 tbsp. ground flax seed
• 1 tbsp. brown sugar
• 1 tbsp. chocolate chips (divided evenly)
• Cinnamon to taste

Combine ingredients in a bowl (leave out the chocolate chips at first). Grease a muffin pan with cooking spray and evenly distribute the muffin mix into each cup. Stick chocolate chips on top. Bake at 375* for 25 to 30 minutes.

Before:

After:

So they look super scrumptious and all, but my favorite part about pumpkin pie is the crust. I thought to myself, what could I use to mimic the crust and still be somewhat light and healthy?

Two words: TEDDY GRAHAMS!!!!!!

A perfect imitation of a graham cracker crust. Plus, they’re adorable!

Each muffin has 180 calories and 7 grams of fiber! Should help to keep me filled. I’m planning on having one for breakfast tomorrow with some PB – I can’t wait! Hopefully it will be another baking success story!

Sweet dreams 🙂