Vegan Cuts May Snack Box

We've been waiting ever so patiently for our May Vegan Cuts Snack Box, and it did not disappoint! The variety and quantity of items included was quite impressive.

My family's favorite snack items are the easy on the go healthy options like the Skinny Pop and Sweet Potato Tortilla chips by Food Should Taste Good. Our family cannot seem to get enough popcorn, and love Skinny Pop's lightly salted and oiled popcorn. It is only 100 calories per bag.

The sweet potato chips were gone before I could blink. We'll be seeking out more of them, and are eager to try some of their other varieties.

A more unique snack was the Oloves in an individual snack pouch. What a fun and creative snack to take along with you. It is only 50 calories and provides healthy fats which are perfect for kids growing bodies. We received Lemony Lover, which was the perfect balance of savory flavors.

Also made by Milas was the cutest little jar of Roasted Red Pepper & Artichoke Bruschetta. My hubby and I were dueling it out of who got the last bite.

Now on to the Teese Nacho Cheese Sauce. It comes in a tube, which you just cut open, heat and serve. It is ideal for whipping up a tasty treat for movie night or just about an occasion is good for nacho cheese chips, right?

I'll be the first to admit I am no expert on protein powders and bars, but I DO know when something tastes delicious. There were two samples from 22 Days: a PB Chocolate Chip Nirvana Bar and Chocolate Protein Powder. My husband does use protein powders and he really enjoyed this one. They are both vegan, gluten,  and soy free.

We are avid coffee drinks in this household. It helps to get through early mornings with rambunctious children. My interest was piqued when I saw the Teeccino French Roast Organic Tee bag. It is herbal, non-acidic and naturally caffeine free, which is perfect for an evening drink which won't keep you up all night.

Our family is already a fan of Parmela Parmesan Cheese, and were happy to find a little packet of it on our snack box.

Lastly, to my daughter's delight there was lip balm made by Meow Meow Tweet which is Rosemary Eucalyptus. She has serious lip balm addiction and was thrilled to have another new one to use.

Thank you Vegan Cuts for creating an awesome assortment of vegan snacks! Our family was also excited to use the $1.00 off coupon for a Beyond Meat package. Our family and friends have given it rave reviews.

5th Annual Worldwide Vegan Bake Sale

Each year I get geared up for a serious baking fest to raise money for animals. It is part of a worldwide effort called the Worldwide Vegan Bake Sale.

You do not want to miss out on this event! Do you recall that scene in "Charlie's Chocolate Factory" when they first encounter a room filled with edible delights? If you want a similar experience first hand, you'll want to be at the Twin Cities Vegan Bake Sale.

All proceeds will go towards the Animal Rights Coalition, which has all sorts of different programs helping animals like: Vegan University, Minneapolis Vegan Meetup, Minnesotans Exposing Petland, and Cuddle Coats to name a few. So come get your vegan treat on!

If you are not in Minnesota, worry not. There is a handy dandy bake sale list you can check out with sales listed in all over the world. If there isn't one in your area, consider organizing one in your area with these helpful tips. 

Butterscotch Pecan Spice Cupcakes

Spice cupcakes which are perfectly light and fluffy. They also make a great muffin if you add a cup of walnuts or dried fruit if you'd prefer a more healthy treat.

Apple Spice Cupcakes

1/2 cup soy or almond milk
1 tsp. vinegar
1 1/4 cups Cake Flour (I use King Arthur's Unbleached Cake Flour)
1 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 Tbsp. corn starch
1/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup brown sugar
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. ginger
1 tsp. nutmeg
1/2 cup applesauce
1/3 cup oil
1 tsp vanilla

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Add muffin liners to a muffin pan.
2. Add vinegar to the soy milk to allow it to curdle.
3. Sift together all the dry ingredients excluding the brown sugar: flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, corn starch, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Add brown sugar and mix well with other dry ingredients.
4. Add to the dry ingredients: oil, vanilla, applesauce, and curdled soy or almond milk.
5. Mix on low until just combined, making sure to scrape the bowl once. 
6. Fill muffin cups 3/4 full. Bake in oven for 15 - 18 minutes or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean. 
7. Frost cupcakes with butterscotch frosting after the cupcakes have cooled completely, then drizzle with pecan butter drizzle icing.

Add sprinkles or a tiny pinch of cinnamon to make your cupcakes more fancy. These embellishments aren't necessary, but who doesn't love extra sprinkles?