Hello, Ninichefs! October is here, and that means it’s pumpkin season! Let’s dive into the delicious world of pumpkins with hands-on recipes that bring the joy of cooking and fall magic straight to your kitchen. From fluffy pancakes to cheesy pizza pockets, these kid-friendly recipes celebrate pumpkin’s sweet and savory sides, with a twist of cultural exploration!
So, young chefs, grab your aprons, get ready to mix, stir, and create, and let’s make this pumpkin season one to remember!
- Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes
To make these classic pancakes loved in the United States, start by whisking together 1 cup of pumpkin puree, an egg, and half a cup of milk until smooth. Then, mix a cup of flour, a spoonful of baking powder, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a bit of sugar in a big bowl. Pour your pumpkin mixture into the dry ingredients and gently stir everything together. Heat a pan, drop some batter, and cook until bubbles form. Flip, cook the other side, and serve warm with syrup or whipped cream!
- Cheesy Pumpkin Pizza Pockets
Inspired by Italy’s love for pizza, these pumpkin pizza pockets are a fun twist! Start with ready-made pizza dough, rolling it out and cutting it into small circles. Spread a little pumpkin puree on each, add a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese and a dash of Italian herbs. Fold each circle over, pressing the edges to seal. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, until the pockets are golden and delicious!
- Pumpkin Smoothie (No Sugar Added)
For a refreshing smoothie, try this fall favorite that’s taken off in the United States as a health trend! Toss 1 cup of pumpkin puree, a banana, half a cup of milk or yogurt, and a dash of cinnamon into a blender. Blend it up until smooth and creamy! For extra sweetness, add a bit of honey if you like. Pour into a glass, sprinkle a little cinnamon on top, and enjoy a cool pumpkin treat.
- Bite-Sized Mini Pumpkin Pies
These mini pies bring a taste of American Thanksgiving tradition to small hands! To make them, cut a ready-made pie crust into small circles and fit them into a mini muffin tin. Mix 1 cup of pumpkin puree, an egg, a bit of sugar, and a sprinkle of pumpkin spice. Spoon this filling into each crust, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes. Let them cool, and you’ll have the perfect mini pumpkin pies!
- Pumpkin Popsicles
Try these modern pumpkin popsicles, a creative take on yogurt pops perfect for a cool autumn treat! Mix together 1 cup of pumpkin puree, 1 cup of vanilla yogurt, and a dash of cinnamon. Stir well, then pour the mix into popsicle molds. Pop them in the freezer for at least 4 hours, and you’ll have a sweet, chilly fall snack!
- Thai Pumpkin Soup
This creamy soup is inspired by the flavors of Thailand, with a unique blend of pumpkin and coconut milk. Start by adding 1 cup of pumpkin puree, a can of coconut milk, 1 cup of vegetable broth, and a spoonful of red curry paste to a pot. Stir it all together, simmer on medium heat for 10-15 minutes, and season with salt. Serve it warm for a comforting bowl of spiced pumpkin soup.
- Pumpkin Empanadas
Empanadas are a beloved pastry across Latin America, and this pumpkin version adds a seasonal twist! Take some ready-made empanada dough or pie crust and cut it into small circles. In a bowl, mix 1 cup of pumpkin puree with a bit of brown sugar and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Spoon the filling onto each circle, fold it over, and press the edges to seal. Brush with an egg for a golden finish, then bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes. Sweet and delicious!
- Moroccan Pumpkin Stew
Inspired by Moroccan cuisine, this stew brings warm spices and hearty vegetables together with pumpkin for a truly comforting dish. Start by heating a bit of oil in a pot, then add chopped onion and garlic. Next, add pumpkin chunks, a can of chickpeas, a sprinkle of cumin and paprika, and 1 cup of vegetable broth. Simmer until the pumpkin is tender, then serve over couscous or rice for a cozy, flavorful meal.
Final bite!
Pumpkin season is a fantastic time to explore cooking and flavors from around the world! Each of these recipes brings out a unique quality of pumpkin, with dishes ranging from sweet treats to savory snacks and hearty meals. We hope these recipes bring joy and flavor to your family’s kitchen as you experience a taste of fall from around the globe.
Happy cooking, young chefs, and happy pumpkin season!