Pumpkin-based treats to try this season

By Lilly Drury

Chief-in-Editor

I am an avid pumpkin lover. With fall being my favorite season, I find myself over the moon at the first sighting of a seasonal pumpkin treat. But I’m not here to talk about the classic pumpkin spice latte, or a simple pumpkin pie. I’m here to delve into the more unknown world of pumpkin and rank my favorite things to make during the fall season with pumpkin. Some of these dishes are a little out of the ordinary, but I urge all of you to try and trek down the unknown path of pumpkin treats.

 

  1. Pumpkin French Toast

There’s something about pumpkin and cinnamon that just goes together so well. This autumn twist on a breakfast classic is one I guarantee you’ll circle back to every year. To make this delicious dish, dip your bread in a mixture of pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, pumpkin pie spice–(I get mine from trader joes)–and vanilla instead of the regular french toast dip. Drizzle on some maple syrup and top with powdered sugar and you’ll be golden – just like your toast.

 

  1. Pumpkin Soup

While pumpkin soup can seem intimidating for some, I swear that it won’t be overpowering if you make it right. My tip for this dish is to use coconut cream to make it extra creamy – and dairy free as well! Top this soup with roasted pumpkin seeds, and serve with a nice fall side salad.

 

  1. Homemade Pumpkin Granola

Granola is my secret weapon in the kitchen. You can sprinkle it on top of yogurt, smoothies, add to oatmeal or trail mix, or even on it’s own as a snack. I’ve taken to making my own granola, and turning it into a pumpkin batch is simple. Add ½ a cup of pumpkin puree to the bowl of oats/nuts before baking it in the oven. Extra points for adding in pepitas (pumpkin seeds).

 

  1. Pumpkin Alfredo

Don’t skip this one! I know this might sound crazy, but pumpkin alfredo pasta IS a thing, and it’s worth a shot. You can make a pumpkin alfredo sauce with just five ingredients– pumpkin puree, butter, garlic, parmesan cheese, and heavy whipping cream. This definetely isn’t for anyone on the fence about pumpkin, but all of my hardcore pumpkin lovers should definitely try this one out.

 

  1. Pumpkin cheesecake

Ending on more tame note, pumpkin cheesecake is something that everyone needs to experience in their life. The mix of a classic cream cheese frosting with the pumpkin notes in the actual cake make a perfect pairing. This dessert proves that pumpkin isn’t just for pie- maybe pumpkin cheesecake will be your new go-to autumnal dessert. Bring this to any fall party and everyone will thank you!