A Shot of Fall

            There is no complaining in Hawaii.  If you are blessed to live here, you have to overlook the few drawbacks.  One of those, for me, is that it is perpetually spring and summer.  Cry me a river, you say.  I know.  I know.  If I want fall I can get on a plane and go visit it somewhere else- that’s not PARADISE.   

           

            Usually around this time of year, mid September, my internal clock starts to become a bit unsettled.   With no crisp, cool weather and leaves starting to turn and fall, I feel a little out of sorts.  This usually doesn’t last long though because I have a pumpkin bread recipe that gives me just the shot of autumn I need.  You should give it a try.  If you’re feeling frisky you can grate your own fresh ginger and add chocolate chips.  You are the boss in your kitchen.

Drew’s “Shot of Fall” Pumpkin Bread

2 c. flour

1/2 c. butter or margarine, softened

2 cups sugar

2 eggs

1 (16 ounce) can of pumpkin

¼ c. apple sauce

1 t. baking soda

½ t. baking powder

½ t. salt

1 t. ground nutmeg

1 t. ground cloves

1 t. cinnamon

1 t. ground ginger- or grated fresh

Combine flour, baking powder, soda, salt and spices.  Set aside.  Beat margarine, butter and sugar till smooth.  Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each.  Add applesauce and pumpkin.  Beat mixture till light and fluffy.  Gradually add dry ingredients beating at a low speed until combined.  Spread into 2 lightly greased 9X5X3 inch loaf pans.  Bake at 325 for 1 hour and 15 minutes.  Cool in pan for 10 minutes and then remove to cool on a rack.  Enjoy fall.