Fall, arguably the magical time of the year. The earth begins to cool, the leaves begin to change color, and the retail stores begin to hock their Holiday paraphernalia.
Unfortunately, or perhaps, un”fall”tunately , every year millions of LDS members will suffer from PSLE. It is an affliction that is very common and yet it’s victims often suffer in silence. What is unique about this scourge is that it effects more Mormons than any other demographic, and because of this, many Saints are unable to fully enjoy the fall and holiday season to it’s full potential.
PSLE, or Pumpkin Spice Latte Envy has been running rampant among the Mormon Folk since the first Starbucks opened it doors. True, we have Apple Cider, Wassail, and the Mormon “hot drink” of choice, Coco, but that doesn’t stop us from gazing longingly as a cup of Pumpkin Spiced Awesomeness goes wafting past us, and I for one have made it my personal mission to rectify this injustice.
Behold!!! The MFPSL!!!! or The Mormon Friendly Pumpkin Spice “Latte”!!!
You’re Welcome.
Ingredients
1.Teecinos Herbal Coffee : Any Flavor (I prefer the Dandelion or Hazelnut)
Why this is great: Don’t be scared away by its name, Teecinos “coffee” is in reality, not coffee at all. It is naturally caffeine free, and non acidic. Truth be told, it is better for you and far superior to the traditional Hot Coco mix in virtually every aspect. With 1 measly gram of sugar per tea bag, and a delicious nutty flavor, this company is in danger of being bought out by the church if it isn’t careful. You can find it online, and in some Grocery Stores. I have found it at Harmons, Whole Foods, and Sprouts here in Zion.
2. Pumpkin Spice: Any brand, located in your neighborhood grocery’s spice isle
Why this is great: Remember hearing how Starbucks puts all sorts of things that don’t belong in any manner of food item in their version of Pumpkin Spice Latte? Well the great thing about my recipe is that the way we are going to get that awesome Pumpkin Spice flavor we all know and love is by using…wait for it…Actual Pumpkin Spice. Brilliant. For those who don’t know Pumpkin Spice is a spice combination of Cinnamon, Ginger, Nutmeg, and Allspice. Each of these ingredients by themselves have health promoting properties with the added benefit of not being a harmful non-food chemical.
3. Pitted Dates: Available almost anywhere dried fruits are sold.
Why this is great: By using fruit to sweeten your drink you are avoiding the health risks associated with consuming refined white sugar. I understand that for some this is a strange new concept, and so if it makes for an easier transition you may also use honey. I don’t like my drinks overly sweet, but if you find you are wanting a more indulgent treat, then keep adding your sweetener of choice until it suits your fancy.
4. Whole Milk
Why this is great: I know, I know, you are all use to your Skim’s and your 1%’s but you just gotta trust me on this one. Don’t wimp out on the fat!!! Embrace the whole milk!! Or do what I do and use 1/2 whole milk and 1/2 straight cream. I could cite numerous studies that scientifically prove that Fat is not dangerous, and is in reality, something that we are not getting enough of (the right kinds anyway). Whole milk is a super food and that is why I use it in all of my recipes.
Directions
Take your Tea Bag and steep (soak) it in a saucepan of water over the stove. My experience is that you can get the equivalent of about 2 regular sized cups of tea from each bag. Depending on how strong you want the flavor the be will determine how much water you use.
Stronger flavor = Less water and vice versa.
Throw dates, (the more you throw in the sweeter it will be. I usually use 3 to 5) into the boiling water along with the tea bag.
Add your Pumpkin Spice to the boiling pot. (Again, the more you add the more flavor, this is not an exact science, and you might have to fiddle with it before you find your ideal blend).
Let it boil on a lower heat until the dates are soft and the liquid is a dark color (signifying that you have steeped most of the flavor from the bag)
Remove pot from heat and remove used tea bag from pot
Pour contents of pot (including the dates) into a standing blender and add equal amounts Whole Milk to Tea ratio to the blender.
Secure Blender Lid Tightly
Blend contents until a froth forms on the top (You may have to blend and rest and then blend again if the liquid is getting too hot and you are in danger of blowing the lid off. If it is starting to look sketchy, stop the blender and open the lid to vent for a moment and then replace the lid and blend again until the top is frothy)
Pour into your favorite Coco Mug and enjoy!!!
So there you have it, a healthy and delicious way to more fully enjoy your Fall Season, PSLE free!!!