Holiday Pumpkin-Spice Muffins

by Diane Lofshult

Looking for a holiday treat that is brimming with healthy ingredients but still sure to appeal to kids and adults alike? Try these hearty muffins for breakfast or as part of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner.

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Spray 12-cup muffin pan using nonstick cooking spray. In large bowl, combine all dry ingredients and spices, stirring well.

In medium bowl, combine pumpkin, oil, buttermilk, eggs and vanilla; mix well. Pour liquid mixture into bowl with dry ingredients and stir.

Divide combined mixture among 12 muffin cups. Top with chopped walnuts, if desired.

Bake about 20 minutes or until muffins bounce back when gently pressed. Makes 12 servings (1 muffin per serving).

Per Serving: 174 calories; 7 grams (g) fat; 26 g carbohydrates; 3 g fiber; 158 milligrams sodium.

nonstick cooking spray

1¹/2 cups whole-wheat flour

¹/2 cup all-purpose flour

¹/2-cup packed brown sugar

1¹/2 teaspoons (tsp) baking powder

¹/4 tsp baking soda

¹/4 tsp salt

1¹/2 tsp cinnamon