It’s that time of year again- Pumpkin Time! The perfect ingredient for pies, breads and side-dishes, its seeds make for some fantastic snacking AND you can decorate with it, or entertain kids for hours with carving ideas. What’s not to love about a pumpkin!
I’ve collected a few of my favorites from the web to share with you today as there are far too many fun things to do with a pumpkin that it’d be a shame to leave you with only one!
I should mention that all the lovely pumpkin pictures here were taken at my favorite local food stand and producer, Valley Veggies. If you’re ever in the Mankato, MN area, stop in and check them out- you will not be disappointed!
Pumpkin Recipes
When talking pumpkin recipes you have to start at dessert. I’m pretty sure that pie is what made pumpkins famous sooo – here is the most basic of the basic recipes: how to make pumpkin pie from scratch!
Although they use pumpkin from a can, this Silky Smooth Pumpkin Pie recipe is definitely worth turning a blind eye to using fresh ingredients!
Why not try a new pumpkin dessert, like this Pumpkin Pie Crumb Bar recipe. It’s especially perfect if you had enough pumpkin pie last Thanksgiving to last you a life time.
Now for the rest of the meal, though this Pumpkin Bread recipe could easily be substituted for a dessert.
Ready for the real deal – think bacon, pumpkin and some flavorful goodness and you’ve got this delicious Pumpkin Bacon Polenta!
Pumpkin Seed Recipes
Last year was the first year that I saved my pumpkin seeds, roasted and then ate them – and it was ridiculously delicious! Check out this simple step-by-step on how to make your own Roasted Pumpkin Seeds.
Or try these Dill Roasted Pumpkin Seeds (a girl after my own heart – Gotta love that!). What’s not to love about dill anything?
Decorating with Pumpkins
Pinterest is full of great DIY pumpkin decorating ideas. Decorating your front stoop is all part of the fun!
Pumpkin Carving Ideas
And if you weren’t quite sure of using plain ole pumpkins as decoration you can “spice” things up with a carving! Not to mention that it will keep you and your family entertained for hours.
If you want patterns to print out and follow, here are a few guides.
I’ve also pinned a bunch of my favorite ideas for you on Pinterest.