The birds ate every last seed of corn I planted last spring, so instead of replanting corn, we planted pumpkins and gourds. The vines did a terrific job of keeping the weeds down during the summer, which was my plan :) and now we are enjoying the abundance of pumpkins and gourds which have grown.
Pie Pumpkins are smaller and more flavorful than traditional decorative pumpkins which are grown for color, structural strength and size. Technically, you could use either pumpkin for baking, but the decorative pumpkins will have less flavor and their flesh will be more watery and fibrous. If you're going to the work of baking a pumpkin, I'd stick to the Pie Pumpkins you'll be happier with the results.
How to bake a pumpkin:
Preheat the oven to 400*.
Cut the pumpkins in half.
Pie Pumpkins are smaller and more flavorful than traditional decorative pumpkins which are grown for color, structural strength and size. Technically, you could use either pumpkin for baking, but the decorative pumpkins will have less flavor and their flesh will be more watery and fibrous. If you're going to the work of baking a pumpkin, I'd stick to the Pie Pumpkins you'll be happier with the results.
How to bake a pumpkin:
Preheat the oven to 400*.
Cut the pumpkins in half.
Place pumpkins, skin up, on a shallow pan, a jelly roll pan works great.
Add about a 1/2 inch of water to the pan.
Tightly cover the pan with foil.
Add about a 1/2 inch of water to the pan.
Tightly cover the pan with foil.
Bake for 60 - 80 minutes depending on the size of your pumpkins.
The pumpkins are done when they are soft and the flesh can easily be pierced, similar to a potato.
The pumpkins are done when they are soft and the flesh can easily be pierced, similar to a potato.
Carefully flip over the pumpkin halves.
Let cool for 10 - 15 minutes or until you can handle.
Mash with a spoon or fork.
Use immediately or freeze.
What can you make with pumpkin besides pie? The possibilities are endless!
Whole Wheat Muffins or bread, my children LOVE the muffins!
Pumpkin Cake Roll
White Flour Pumpkin Bread
Pumpkin Pudding, don't let the color gross you out, it is delicious!
Pumpkin Whoopie Pies and Frosted Pumpkin Cookies
We made pumpkin pancakes & waffles yesterday morning, they tasted really good, but the recipe needs a little adjusting. I'll share that as soon as we get it right.
What is your favorite way to use pumpkin?
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