Pumpkin season is in, and everything from Starbucks coffee to home decorations gets that touch of pumpkin magic. Carving pumpkins is an extremely popular fall activity, but many people throw away the excess pumpkin for the trash.
No need! Use these creative pumpkin ideas that transform the extra parts of pumpkins into another creative activity you can enjoy and share with friends, family, and pets!
DIY Face Mask
What makes your hands slimy, is the same thing that will give your face the 5-star facial treatment feel. The insides of a pumpkin contain vitamins A and C, and antioxidants that fight a multitude of chronic health problems, said IPSY.
These face masks are easy to make at home and are good for people with dry skin. Cosmopolitan offers three pumpkin skincare recipes for readers to try out and have fun with. Make it a skincare and spa night for yourself or share it with friends!
Pumpkin Puree
A key ingredient for many pumpkin-flavored dishes, pumpkin puree can be made right in your own kitchen with the pumpkins you handpicked.
Other ways The Pioneer Woman suggests the puree can be used is by adding it to muffins, bread, and cookies. She even recommends mixing the puree with some butter and maple syrup to make it a delicious side dish for any occasion.
Creamy pumpkin Hummus Anyone?
As a quick snack with some crackers, pumpkin hummus can satisfy anyone craving that good pumpkin flavor. The hummus recipe, from Allrecipes, requires pumpkin puree which can also be made, at home, out of your freshly gutted pumpkin.
Smash your chickpeas by hand to give your dish a chunkier texture. Making the hummus takes some time but it is versatile in many foods; mix it in with a salad, have it with some vegetables, or eat it by the spoonful.
Pup treats
Let’s not forget about our furry friends. Pumpkin dog treats can become an event the whole family can get into. You’ll need all-natural peanut butter and pumpkin puree, again, for this recipe.
Love From The Oven said that by making your own treats at home, you know exactly what you are feeding your pets, and you can form them into shapes that are both fun and delicious.
Roast those seeds!
A classic activity after gutting a pumpkin is roasting the seeds. Pumpkin seeds contain protein, vitamins, unsaturated fatty acids, and minerals that reduce health risks like cancer.
Any type of seasonings can be added to the seeds after cooking to give them the desired flavor, said Jessica Gavin. This snack doesn’t take long to prepare and is quick to take with you on the go or share with others.
Natural Pumpkin Body scrub
Body scrubs have been all the rage in the beauty departments for their great smell and smooth-skin results. Try this all-natural recipe from Delicious Obsessions, which only uses five ingredients to make the scrub.
Pumpkins also carry Vitamin B and Zinc which can moisturize the skin and can be used for all skin types, IPSY said. If you are sensitive to fragrances in regular body scrubs, making a homemade scrub with this recipe can be a great substitute.
Pumpkin butter
This is a unique way to spice up your usual morning meal. You can make the butter in an instant pot or a slow cooker, but there is little to no difference in the results.
Pumpkin butter has a thick consistency and tastes good mixed in with oatmeal or smoothies. Storing it in an airtight container in the fridge can keep the pumpkin butter fresh for up to two weeks, said Boulder Locavore.
Homemade PSL
Want to bring that famous pumpkin spice latte into your own home? You can! This recipe from Champagne Tastes provides a gluten-free and vegan-friendly way to make your favorite drink with a few simple steps.
It is made with a cup of espresso, but if you don’t have an espresso machine available, it’s okay. It can be replaced with regular black coffee and either steamed or coconut milk for the finishing touches.
Pumpkin Cheesecake
It’s not a party without some cheesecake. Pumpkin puree will be needed, and anyone who tries the cheesecake will be asking you for the recipe. Tell them it’s from Sugar Spun Run!
Cinnamon whipped cream adds extra sweetness to the dessert and, with some candles, this cheesecake can be turned into a birthday cake for someone special in the fall.
Grow your own pumpkins
If you want to put your green thumb to use, try taking the seeds from inside the pumpkins and planting them in your own garden.
With enough space in your yard and warm weather, you will be ready to start planting. It will take about 80 to 110 days for your homegrown pumpkins to be ready for harvesting, said Gardenia Organic. Good luck and happy picking!