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Navigating Home Buying: 10 Crucial Questions to Ask Your Realtor
Buying a home is a significant and exciting journey, but it can also be a complex process with numerous considerations. Your realtor is your guide through this intricate terrain, and asking the right questions can make a substantial difference in your home-buying experience. In this blog post, we’ll explore 10 crucial questions to ask your realtor when purchasing a home to ensure you make informed decisions every step of the way.
- What is My Budget Range and What Are the Associated Costs?
- Understanding your budget is paramount. Ask your realtor for a detailed breakdown of potential costs, including closing costs, property taxes, and homeowners association fees.
- What Local Market Insights Can You Provide?
- Your realtor should be well-versed in the local market. Ask about recent sales, current trends, and upcoming developments that may impact property values in the area.
- Are There Any Upcoming Developments or Zoning Changes?
- Stay ahead of potential changes that could affect your investment. Inquire about upcoming developments, rezoning plans, or infrastructure projects in the neighbourhood.
- How Long Has the Property Been on the Market, and Why?
- Understanding the history of a property can provide valuable insights. Ask your realtor about the time the property has spent on the market and the reasons behind it.
- What is the Seller’s Motivation to Sell?
- Knowing the seller’s motivation can be advantageous during negotiations. Whether it’s a job relocation or a desire for a larger space, understanding their motivation can help you tailor your offer.
- Can You Provide Information on Comparable Sales in the Area?
- Comparable sales (comps) are crucial for determining a fair offer. Request information on recent sales of similar properties in the neighbourhood to assess the market value.
- What Contingencies Should I Consider Including in My Offer?
- Contingencies protect your interests as a buyer. Ask your realtor about the appropriate contingencies for your specific situation, such as financing, home inspection, or appraisal contingencies.
- How Can I Maximize the Home Inspection Process?
- A thorough home inspection is vital. Ask your realtor for recommendations on reputable inspectors and inquire about specific aspects to pay attention to during the inspection.
- What Negotiation Strategies Do You Recommend?
- Your realtor’s negotiation skills are crucial. Discuss potential negotiation strategies and ask for advice on how to structure your offer to make it more appealing to the seller.
- What is the Closing Process Like, and What Should I Prepare For?
- Closing can be a complex process. Ensure you’re prepared by asking your realtor about the necessary documentation, timelines, and any potential challenges that may arise.
Asking the right questions is key to a successful home-buying experience. Your realtor is there to guide you through the process, providing valuable insights and expertise. By addressing these 10 crucial questions, you’ll be well-equipped to make informed decisions and navigate the complexities of purchasing your dream home with confidence. Happy house hunting!
Spring Into Action: Tips for Selling Your Home This Season
As temperatures rise and flowers begin to bloom, now is the perfect time for a spring home sale. In fact, real estate data provider ATTOM found that properties sold in April, May and June garnered the highest returns over the last 12 years. If you want to take advantage of the season’s vibrant energy and high demand, here’s what you can do to ensure a successful sale.
Maximize Your Curb Appeal
Spring is the ideal season to show off the beauty of your home and capture buyer interest before they even step through the front door. Nothing is more inviting than a freshly mowed lawn, blooming flowers and well-manicured trees and shrubbery. Buyers will notice the details, so it also pays to have your home and driveway power washed and gutters cleaned. Even small improvements like a new mailbox, welcome mat or porchlight can make a big impact.
Do a Deep Clean
Your home should sparkle from the floorboards to the ceiling fans. Buyers pay special attention to bathrooms and kitchens, so you’ll want to address tiling, grout lines and appliances. Replace shelf liners and shower curtains and have the carpets and curtains cleaned as well. And don’t forget about hidden spots, like the cabinet under the sink and the area behind the refrigerator. A pristine home shows buyers that the property has been taken care of, giving them more confidence to put in a competitive offer.
Address Repairs and Upgrades
You don’t have to renovate your home to get a quick sale. Some minor upgrades can significantly enhance the property’s overall appeal. A fresh coat of paint, for example, can change the entire feel of your home. Choose neutral colors and keep the palette consistent throughout the interior. You can also replace outdated drawer pulls, knobs and faucets. If your budget allows, consider purchasing new kitchen appliances and/or countertops, as these are important features that buyers will appreciate.
Declutter and Depersonalize
A clutter-free home appears more spacious and allows potential buyers to envision themselves living there. Pack away personal items and unnecessary objects to create a neutral canvas that appeals to a broad audience. Remove refrigerator magnets, family photos and knickknacks. Keep kitchen and bathroom counters clear and consider removing a piece or two of furniture from each room to enhance its spaciousness. Bare walls can make the home seem sterile, so hang tasteful artwork that doesn’t overpower the room.
Lighten up the Interior
Spring offers abundant natural light, making your home appear expansive and inviting. Clean your windows thoroughly to allow for maximum sunlight and keep your curtains and blinds open during showings. Now is also a good time to replace lightbulbs to create a warm ambiance throughout the residence.
As you prepare for a spring home sale, your agent will guide you through other key considerations, like pricing the home competitively, arranging professional photography and engaging buyers across high-traffic websites and social media platforms. Together you can make your property stand out in this season’s blooming real estate market.
Source: Spring Into Action: Tips for Selling Your Home This Season by Michelle Abendschan
How to Pet-Proof Your Home for Furry Family Members
If you share your home with a pet or two (or five), you know their well-being is a top priority. Along with making a move less stressful for them, learning how to pet-proof your home should be high on the list for responsible pet owners. Read on to know what to look out for and how to make your home a comfortable and secure place for everyone.
Kitchens
Star your pet-proofing mission in the kitchen, as it has a lot of potentially dangerous and tempting items for your four-legged friends. Ensure cabinets are secure to prevent access to cleaning supplies, cutlery and any unauthorized treats – child-proof cabinet locks are an excellent option here. Some human foods can be life-threatening for dogs and cats, so promptly store items like chocolates, crackers and leftovers away or you could be making an unexpected trip to the emergency vet. Garbage bins should have lids or be kept inside cabinets, as pets can get into trash hunting for a bonus meal.
Living Rooms
You probably spend a lot of quality time with your pets in your living room, which also deserves a careful going-over. Keep small objects, like breakable decorative pieces and children’s toys, out of reach. Electrical cords should be concealed or secured, as they present a chewing temptation for many animals. Certain houseplants can also be toxic for your fur babies, so you’ll want to eliminate any dangerous varieties.
Bedrooms and Bathrooms
In bedrooms, keep your clothes, shoes and personal items stowed away since anything can become a fun chew toy, especially for dogs. Secure medications, razors and other sharp objects away from curious paws and noses. And while a cat lying on the bathroom floor surrounded by a roll of unspooled toilet paper seems like it’d be great photo op, it’ll be a pain to clean up. Consider keeping doors closed when you’re not around.
Yards, Patios and Decks
If your pets spend considerable time outside, you’ll want to provide a shaded area and fresh water to prevent overheating in hot weather. Also, think about installing a pet door if you do have an enclosed outdoor space like a catio or dog run, making it easy for them to get outside safely. Plus, animals can be notorious escape artists, so securely latch all non-pet doors and windows to prevent any unexpected breakouts.
Create Pet-Friendly Spaces
Pet-proofing is not only about forbidden areas and potential harm – it’s also about making cozy and pet-specific areas for your animals. Your pets deserve to love their home as much as you do, so give them their own spots, like napping nooks and comfortable hiding places. Dogs might appreciate a snuggly bed in a quiet corner, while many cats love hanging out in a felted cat cave. Designate an area for pet toys, like a stylish basket or bin. This will make picking up a breeze and your pets will know where to go when it’s time to play.
Creating a safe environment by knowing how to pet-proof your home is vital to being a good pet owner. And with a little effort, you can make your house a haven for the whole family.
Source: How to Pet-Proof Your Home for Furry Family Members by Michelle Abendschan
7 Tips for Creating a Healthier Home in the New Year
When it comes to living a healthier lifestyle, the little things can add up and make a considerable impact! It’s not just about hitting the gym or eating right – it’s also about creating a healthier home environment and adopting habits that promote overall well-being. To help you on your journey, here are some tips that will contribute to a more holistically fit lifestyle.
Purify Your Air
Minimizing indoor air pollution can affect how you feel, from reducing asthma triggers to creating a better sleeping environment. Because of this, ensuring good air quality in your home is something you should prioritize. One easy solution is to invest in an air purifier, which can help eliminate many common indoor pollutants. And if you live in a region that gets smoke-filled air from frequent forest fires, an air purifier is a must in the summer and fall months. Additionally, regularly changing your furnace filters can substantially improve your indoor air quality.
Adopt Some Green Friends
Plants don’t just make your home prettier – they also offer some serious health benefits! Certain types, like the snake plant, aloe vera and peace lily, are well-known to clean the indoor air, increase humidity and release oxygen. Plus, introducing plants is a great way to add a relaxing dose of nature to your living space, along with enhancing the air quality.
Make a Shoes-Off Policy
Keeping your shoes at the door is a simple practice that can keep your home cleaner and healthier. Shoes can track in germs, dirt and other outdoor pollutants, not to mention allergens like pollen. Adopting a shoes-off policy can significantly reduce this influx of unwanted substances into your home, improving the overall living environment and potentially contributing to a decreased risk of allergies and illnesses.
Regularly Deep Clean Carpets
Carpet maintenance is not just about keeping up the aesthetic appeal – it’s fundamentally a health measure. Carpets can act like a filter, trapping various airborne particles, including pet dander, dust mites, pollen and other allergens. Although vacuuming helps, it often isn’t enough to remove all these contaminants deeply embedded in the carpet’s fibers. A regular deep clean is necessary to extract these allergens and pollutants fully. Experts recommend a professional cleaning every 12 to 18 months, depending on your carpet’s usage level.
Filter Your Water
Filters can remove contaminants from your water, providing safer and often better-tasting H2O. Clean, fresh water is vital in maintaining good health, so it’s well worth the investment. A reusable pitcher is also a greener and more economical choice than buying plastic bottled water. Plus, there are fantastic pitcher options, from the downright luxurious to the no-frills model.
Room to Exercise, Destress & Create
Repurposing space in your home and creating dedicated areas for physical activity, relaxation and hobbies can significantly influence your health journey. Make a quiet corner ready for workouts, even if it’s just enough space for a yoga mat – it can motivate you to stick to a regular exercise routine. Exercise not only boosts your physical health but also acts as a natural stress reliever. In addition, having a place to unwind and disconnect can considerably improve your mental health. This could be a reading nook, a meditation corner or somewhere to engage in your favorite hobbies and crafts.
Establish a Tech-Free Zone
Consider a kitchen or dining room charging station to keep phones out of bedrooms at night. A tech-free bedroom can help improve sleep quality and promote a better sleep routine and a healthier home. Tempting as it may be, instead of using your phone’s alarm to wake up in the morning, pick out one of these top-rated and stylish alarm clocks.
Remember, living a fit, healthy lifestyle is more than the big gestures – it’s also about the little steps you can take daily. Pick a few from our list and start 2024 off on the right foot!
Source: 7 Tips for Creating a Healthier Home in the New Year by Michelle Abendschan
Tips for Creating a Memorable New Year’s Eve Party at Home
Hosting a New Year’s Eve celebration from the comfort of your living room can be filled with fun, food and guests – an unforgettable experience to ring in the new year. To make the most of the evening, you can create a festive atmosphere with themed decorations, incorporate new or favorite dishes, dress to impress and count down in style. Consider adding these touches while planning your unique New Year’s Eve at home.
Set the Scene
Adorn your space with lights and candles to set the stage for celebration. Then, add some specific holiday touches with a photo booth or instant-print camera to capture the memories and a large countdown clock to know when midnight is about to strike. Round out the space by strategically placing hats, noisemakers, beads and other fun items to get guests excited and engaged.
Delectable Treats
Diverse food dishes can also elevate your gathering. Dips, mini-sized treats and seafood or veggie platters are all great options and encourage mingling while satisfying the taste buds. You could also get creative with a cheese or chocolate fondue fountain to bring an elegant touch.
 Make Your Dress Code a Theme
Inspiring style and vibrant energy, you could encourage specific attire for your get-together. Unify your guests with a captivating theme, like black-and-gold, retro glam, masquerade ball or glitter and sequins, and add a layer of creative fun and conversation.
Countdown With Flair
Electrify your night with epic music mixes, classic karaoke songs, toasts and, if local laws allow, fireworks.
You could curate a playlist of upbeat songs to keep guests dancing all night or singing their hearts out with timeless beats. And as the clock approaches midnight, toast with champagne, sparkling cider or a festive non-alcoholic drink. Additionally, you could ring in the new year with a bang if you can organize a small fireworks display in your backyard.
Hosting a New Year’s Eve celebration at home doesn’t have to be bland – it can be an incredibly entertaining experience. Cheers to a fantastic New Year’s Eve and a promising year ahead!
Source: Tips for Creating a Memorable New Year’s Eve Party at Home by Michelle Abendschan
5 Home Improvement Projects That Will Pay Off in 2024
With 2024 on the horizon, many homeowners are seeking ways to enhance their property and increase its value. Whether you plan to sell your home in the new year or simply want to update its style and livability for yourself, strategic home improvement projects can make a significant impact.
Spruce Up the Exterior
First impressions matter – a well-maintained exterior can greatly enhance curb appeal. Start by giving your home a fresh coat of paint, if needed, to refresh its appearance. Also, consider updating or repairing your siding, replacing old windows and adding attractive landscaping to create eye-catching charm in the neighborhood.
Upgrade the Kitchen
The kitchen is often thought of as the heart of the home, and it can have a significant impact on your house’s worth and your comfort. Think about upgrading key features such as countertops, cabinetry and flooring. If your budget allows, replacing old appliances with energy-efficient models can also be a major selling point and save you money in the long run. Additionally, new wall paint, updated light fixtures and a stylish backsplash will create a space where you can enjoy preparing meals and entertaining friends.
Enhance the Bathroom
Bathrooms are another crucial area for home improvements that can influence value. Start by updating fixtures, like faucets, showerheads and towel racks, to create a sleek and cohesive look throughout the space. Consider replacing worn-out tiles or regrouting existing ones to refresh walls and floors. Several DIY cosmetic updates can also produce a big splash and make your bathroom shine.
Create an Outdoor Oasis
Today, many homeowners are valuing outdoor spaces more than ever, and that probably won’t change. Creating a functional and appealing outdoor area can significantly enhance your home’s charm. You might want to build a deck or patio to entertain and host outdoor meals and get-togethers. But why stop there? Add in comfortable seating, install outdoor lighting and consider investing in professional landscaping for an extra living space in the summer months or year-round, depending on your climate.
Make Smart Upgrades
In our eco-conscious society, energy-efficient homes are highly sought after – so consider making earth-friendly upgrades to your property. Replace old windows with double or triple-pane glass windows, add insulation to prevent heat loss and install green appliances. Solar panels can also be a fantastic investment. These improvements decrease energy consumption and appeal to homeowners who want to reduce their environmental impact.
The upcoming new year presents an excellent opportunity to invest in home improvement projects that can boost your property’s value and make your home more comfortable and cost-efficient for years to come.
Source: 5 Home Improvement Projects That Will Pay Off in 2024 by Michelle Abendschan
Essential Tips for a Safe and Festive Holiday Celebration at Home
The holiday season is a time for joy, celebration, and creating cherished memories with loved ones. As you dive into the festivities, it’s crucial to prioritize safety to ensure that your holiday remains merry and bright. In this guide, we’ll explore practical tips for a safe and festive home environment during this magical time of the year.
Trimming the Tree Safely
- Daily Watering Ritual: Keep the holiday spirit alive and well by making daily watering of your fresh Christmas tree a top priority. A well-hydrated tree not only looks better but also significantly reduces the risk of fire hazards. Hydration is the key to a healthy and safe centerpiece for your holiday decorations.
Ornament Safety First
- Child and Pet-Proof Decorating: While adorning your tree with festive ornaments, it’s important to strike a balance between magic and safety. Place sharp or breakable ornaments out of reach of small children and pets to prevent accidents. This way, you can preserve the enchantment of the season without compromising on safety.
String Light Check
- Inspecting Illumination: Before decking the halls, take a moment to inspect your light strings. Discard any showing signs of wear and tear, such as frayed wires, loose connections, or broken sockets. Promptly replace any burnt-out bulbs to ensure a well-lit and hazard-free holiday atmosphere.
Winter Wonderland Walkways
- Snow and Ice Safety: Ensure a safe entry and exit for all your holiday guests by keeping driveways and walkways clear of snow and ice. Regularly shovel and apply de-icing products to prevent slips and falls, creating a welcoming path for friends and family.
Cooking Safety
- Kitchen Caution: When preparing festive meals, be mindful of kitchen safety. Keep flammable items away from the stove, use a timer for cooking, and never leave the kitchen unattended while appliances are in use. Practicing caution in the kitchen ensures that the heart of your home remains a safe and joyful space.
Cord Caution
- Tripping Hazard Prevention: Safeguard against tripping hazards by never running electrical and extension cords through or across doorways. Avoid placing them under carpets, where they could overheat and pose a fire risk. Neatly arrange cords to create a hazard-free environment.
Mindful Candle Use
- Safer Alternatives: If you enjoy the warm glow of candles, ensure their use is mindful and safe. Keep them in sturdy holders and away from flammable materials. Never leave candles unattended, and consider using flameless LED candles as a safer alternative for a worry-free holiday ambiance.
Home Security
- Peace of Mind While Away: If holiday travels are on your agenda, take precautions to secure your home. Lock all doors and windows, set alarms if available, and ask a trusted neighbor to keep an eye on your property. A few extra steps can provide peace of mind during your festive adventures.
By incorporating these safety measures into your holiday preparations, you can create a festive atmosphere that not only dazzles with holiday spirit but also ensures the well-being of everyone in your home. May your holidays be filled with joy, warmth, and safety!
Simple Holiday Storage Tips to Make Your Life Easier
Give your future self a gift by properly storing all those beautiful holiday decorations away this year! Correctly organizing and packing your holiday ornaments, lights and other decor can save you time, money and frustration when it’s time to take them out again. Here are five practical storage tips to keep your holiday decorations safe and in good condition.
Sorting and Organizing
Before you even start, take the time to coordinate them. Group similar items together, such as ornaments, lights and garlands, to make it easier to find and unpack specific pieces next year. Label your storage bins or boxes for each category of decorations. Clear plastic containers are ideal, allowing you to quickly see the contents without even opening them.
Properly Packing Delicate Items
Glass and other breakable ornaments require special care to prevent damage. Use individual compartments, such as egg cartons or a specialty ornament storage container, to keep pieces separate and protected. Wrap fragile ornaments in tissue paper or bubble wrap before placing them in their designated spots. Also, think about placing extra fragile ones in their own sturdy box or container within your larger storage bin to further protect them. This added layer will help prevent any accidental breaks.
Untangling and Storing Lights
Tangled lights can be one of the most frustrating parts of holiday decorating. So, before putting them away, untangle your lights and inspect them for any damaged or broken bulbs. Replace any non-functioning bulbs to ensure everything is ready to use next year. You might want to use a spool or cord reel to tame any tangles. Alternatively, you can wrap lights around cardboard or even a hanger, securing the ends with zip or twist ties.
Protecting Wreaths and Garlands
To keep faux foliage in good condition, store pieces in a cool, dry place to prevent mold or mildew growth. Think about investing in a specially designed wreath storage container or use wall hooks to hang them in a closet or storage area. For garlands, wrap them securely in tissue paper or plastic wrap to prevent them from tangling or getting damaged during storage.
Utilizing Space-Saving Solutions
Make the most of your holiday storage area with space-saving solutions. Vacuum-seal bags compress soft decorations, such as fabric tablecloths or seasonal pillows. Place these compacted items in airtight containers to guard against moisture and pests. Additionally, take advantage of vertical space by hanging hooks or shelves inside your storage area to keep bins and boxes off the ground. This not only creates more room but also helps prevent damage from potential leaks or floods.
Storing your holiday decor the right way keeps it safe and makes decorating your home the following year a breeze! Following these holiday storage tips ensures that your items remain in excellent condition for many more joyful seasons.
Source: Simple Holiday Storage Tips to Make Your Life Easier by Michelle Abendschan
The Big Benefits of Downsizing Your Home
If you’re considering downsizing, you’re not alone. Many homeowners are embracing the advantages of living in smaller spaces. Living more compactly can offer a range of benefits, from cost savings to a better quality of life. Explore the advantages of living smaller and learn why it’s becoming an increasingly popular option.
Financial Considerations
One of the main advantages of downsizing is the positive impact it can have on your wallet and finances. By moving to a smaller home, you can enjoy lower mortgage payments, reduced property taxes and decreased utility bills. These savings can free up a significant amount of money, giving you the opportunity to pay off debts, travel, invest or save for the future – tiny houses are fashionable for a reason!
Simplified Lifestyle & Maintenance
Even if you don’t go all the way down to tiny, another great perk of a reduced space is the simplified lifestyle it offers. With fewer rooms to clean, maintain and organize, you can spend less time on household chores and decluttering, and have more time to do the things you love with friends and family. Imagine how a more manageable home could help you find balance and fulfillment in your daily life. There are also great tips available for decorating a scaled-down home so you can still make a more minimal space stylish and inviting.
Increased Flexibility
Downsizing can also provide you with more agility and mobility, which is ideal for avid travelers and explorers. A week or even a month away doesn’t seem as daunting with a smaller property. Since it requires less upkeep, it can allow you to spend extended periods away without worry. Additionally, it can create a more adaptable living environment for retirees or empty nesters, making it easier to adjust to changing circumstances throughout your life.
Environmental Perks
Going smaller not only benefits you personally but also has positive environmental impacts. A more minimal living space conserves resources like energy and water, reducing your carbon footprint. With fewer rooms to heat and cool, you’ll see lower energy emissions and monthly bills. Plus, downsizing encourages a more intentional and mindful approach to consumption, promoting a greener and eco-friendly lifestyle if that’s your thing.
The benefits go beyond simply living in a reduced space. Downsizing allows you to create a home that aligns with your values, offering greater freedom and contentment. So, if you’ve been considering downsizing or rightsizing in the future, take the leap and embrace the many advantages that await. Say goodbye to excess and hello to a simpler, more fulfilling lifestyle.
Source: The Big Benefits of Downsizing Your Home by Michelle Abendschan
COOKING UP GRATITUDE: THANKSGIVING FAVOURITES
Tis the season for warm, tasty dishes! Just in time for Thanksgiving, we have a delicious appetizer, side dish and dessert to accompany your Thanksgiving meal!Â
IngredientsÂ
- 10 slices baconÂ
- 1 (8-oz.) block cream cheese, softenedÂ
- 1/3 cup mayonnaiseÂ
- 1/3 cup sour creamÂ
- 1 teaspoon garlic powderÂ
- 1 teaspoon paprikaÂ
- 1 lb. frozen chopped spinach, thawed and squeezed of excess liquidÂ
- 1 cup freshly grated ParmesanÂ
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella, dividedÂ
- 1 baguette, sliced and toasted
Delish: Ethan Calabrese
DirectionsÂ
Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°. In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy, 8 minutes. Drain on a paper towel-lined plate, then chop. Â
Step 2: In a large bowl, stir together cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, and paprika and season with salt and pepper. Fold in chopped spinach, bacon, Parmesan, and 3/4 cup of mozzarella.Â
Step 3: Transfer dip to a baking dish and sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup mozzarella. Bake until golden and bubbly, 25 to 30 minutes.Â
Step 4: Serve with crostini.Â
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IngredientsÂ
- 3/4 lb. mild ground pork sausageÂ
- 1 medium sweet onion, dicedÂ
- 2 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and choppedÂ
- 1 cup sliced celeryÂ
- 2 large garlic cloves, mincedÂ
- 1 cup walnuts, toasted and coarsely choppedÂ
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped, plus more for garnishÂ
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, choppedÂ
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leavesÂ
- 1 teaspoon kosher saltÂ
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepperÂ
- 12 cups assorted bread cubesÂ
- 2 1/2 cups low-sodium turkey or chicken brothÂ
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Country Living: Marian Cooper Cairns & Mary Allen Perry
DirectionsÂ
Step 1: Heat oven to 350°F. SautĂ© sausage and onion in a large skillet over medium heat for 6 minutes or until sausage is no longer pink. Add apples and next 2 ingredients; sautĂ© 5 more minutes or until apples are tender. Stir in walnuts and the next 5 ingredients. Transfer to a large bowl and let cool for 10 minutes.Â
Step 2: Fold in bread and broth until well blended. Spoon into a well-greased 3-quart or 13- x 9-inch baking pan. Brush top generously with butter. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes or until the top is crusty and brown. Garnish, if desired.Â
 Â
Cream Cheese Swirled Pumpkin Bread with Salted Maple ButterÂ
IngredientsÂ
- 3 medium overly ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup mashed, see notes)Â
- 1 cup canned pumpkin pureeÂ
- 3/4 cup melted coconut oil (see notes)Â
- 2/3 cup maple syrupÂ
- 3 large eggs, at room temperatureÂ
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extractÂ
- 3 cups all-purpose flourÂ
- 2 teaspoons baking powderÂ
- 1/2 teaspoon baking sodaÂ
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamonÂ
- 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spiceÂ
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher saltÂ
- 8 ounces cream cheese, at room temperatureÂ
- 1/4 cup cinnamon sugarÂ
Salted Maple ButterÂ
- 4 tablespoons salted butter at room temperatureÂ
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
Half-Baked Harvest: Teighan Gerard
DirectionsÂ
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease 2 (9Ă—5 inch) bread pans.Â
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the mashed bananas, pumpkin, coconut oil, maple syrup, eggs, and vanilla until combined. Add the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice, and salt, mix until just combined. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared bread pans. Â
Step 3: Place the cream cheese in a gallon size zip-top bag. Snip a small opening off of the corner of the bag. Squeeze out teaspoon size amounts directly into the pumpkin batter, using 4 ounces of cream cheese per bread pan. Gently swirl the cream cheese. Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar over top of the batter.Â
Step 4: Transfer to the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until center is just set. Â
Step 5: Meanwhile, make the maple butter. In a small bowl, combine the butter and maple syrup.Â
Step 6: Remove the bread and let cool for at least 30 minutes before cutting…or just eat it warm with a smear of maple butter (you should do this!). Enjoy! Â
NotesÂ
To Replace the Banana: use an additional 3/4 cup pumpkin or unsweetened applesauce. But again, I like the bread best with bananas. You do not taste them.Â
To replace the Coconut Oil: use an equal amount of melted butter.Â
To Freeze: Bake as directed, cool each loaf completely, then tightly wrap in plastic wrap. Freeze in a freezer bag or freezer safe container for up to 4 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, or on the counter for a few hours. Â
To Make Gluten Free: Use an equal amount of your favorite gluten free flour blend in place of the all-purpose flour. I recommend Cup4Cup gluten free flour. Â
Storing: this bread keeps well for 3-4 days at room temperature.Â
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Which one of these delicious recipes will you add to your Thanksgiving meal?
Source: COOKING UP GRATITUDE: THANKSGIVING FAVOURITES by Bailey DeRudder
