It’s never too early to start using pumpkin in recipes.

Is it just me, or does just thought thought of the holidays and the smell of those fall flavors put a smile on your face? It just makes me so happy!

I use to absolutely love making a pumpkin cream cheese. But see, I had a problem. The low fat version still had a lot of calories for the amount I would go through of it (2 tablespoon serving size?! I think not). But then the fat free version was just filled with all sorts of artificial ingredients and fillers for the lack of fat. So yesterday I came up with a solution for this problem. And the solution was delicious. Low in fat, high in protein, and still that delicious creamy taste of cream cheese!

Did I mention I have been loving cottage cheese lately? 🙂

Whats your favorite holiday flavor?? I guess mine isn’t too hard to guess!

Pumpkin “Cream Cheese”

-1/4 cup+2T Pumpkin Puree
-1/2 cup Cottage Cheese
-1 packet Stevia or 2T Honey
-1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract
-1/4 tsp Cinnamon + Nutmeg
Directions: Blend all ingredients together until smooth. Keep in jar. Use as a spread on toast, a sweet dip, or even a simple add-in into oatmeal or shakes.

Pumpkin Benefits:
1) High in Vitamin aid which aids in eyesight
2) High in fiber to keep you satisfied
3) Rich in Beta Carotene with plays a role in cancer prevention and benefit your skin
4) More potassium than a banana (great post workout food!)
5) Rich in Vitamin C to keep you fit and healthy

Raw Honey Benefits
1) Alkaline-forming food that contains natural vitamins, enzymes, and powerful antioxidants
2)Anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fingal properties
3)Promotes body and digestive health
4)Strengthens immune system
5)Eliminates allergies
6)Excellent remedy for skin wounds and infections
7)Stabilizes blood pressure
8)Relieves pain
9)Calm nerves