Funky Pumpkins

Posted on September 7th, 2020

What is the number one must-have for fall decorating?  It’s the pumpkin of course!  It’s a mandatory staple for Halloween, but unique pumpkins are versatile when it comes to decorating, and they can take you all the way through the fall into Thanksgiving! Most of you are probably familiar with Howden pumpkins which are ideal for carving, or Sugar pumpkins which are common in baking, but we carry some lesser-known ‘funky pumpkins’ which make a statement in any home, or on any stoop. We’ve rounded up a list of a few of our favorite gourd-gous pumpkins just in time for fall!

 

Howden

One of the best pumpkins for Halloween carving or roasted seeds. 

 

Casper

Don’t be scared, this ghostly white pumpkin is named after the friendly ghost Casper! Perfect for carving and even better for painting. Caspers provides great contrast in fall gourd and pumpkin displays. The flesh is super sweet, making it a great choice for pies and baking too! 

 

Peanut

The French heirloom Galeux D’Eysines Pumpkin is a very popular variety right now! It has a beautifully warted exterior which is a very soft muted buck skin color. It also makes for a delicious pie!

 

Jarrahdale

A pumpkin with Italian heritage from the seaside province of Venice. In fact, that’s why it’s often called a sea pumpkin. It’s a rustic, bumpy turbin shaped green/blue with a sweet orange flesh. 

 

Turban

No two of these are the same, making memorable harvest decorations. It has been described as the most beautiful in color.

 

Red Warty Thing

Don’t be fooled by the peculiar appearance! Not only is this a super fall decoration, it has stringless, fine-grained flesh that’s excellent for eating, simailr to a hubbard squash. Carve a face into it and make the most bizarre and spooky jack-o-lantern  on your block!

 

Fairytale

These can be used in any pumpkin recipe. Puree to make the perfect pumpkin butter or soups, or try roasting or grilling to enhance the sweet flavor. 

 

Sugar

Sugar Pumpkins are great for making soups or stuffing. It’s also great as a homeade pumpkin puree for pies.

 

Cinderella

Yes, the name derives from the fairytale as the shape of Cinderella’s carriage! This variety was reportely cultivated by the Pilgrims for the first Thanksgiving dinner with perfect flavor for pies or winter squash recipes.

 

Blue

Sweet flavoring lends itself well to pie fillings, scones and cakes. You can also use roasted pieces in risottos, salads, and pasta dishes. Dice and add to curries, soups and stews. To showcase the unique exterior color slice into wedges leaving the skin attached and serve roasted or grilled. 

 

Pink

Very eye-catching for holiday decorations. Deep-orange sweet flesh can be used for pies, soup, and gourmet culinary delights. 

 

Cheese

This long-lasting pumpkin looks like a flatened wheel of chedder. Higher in nutrients and sugars, it’s always smooth grained and has a denser flesh that will result in a better custard. You can also use chunks in your winter roasts and stews.