It’s Almost That Time: How To Pick A Pumpkin

Two friends picking pumpkins at the pumpkin patch.The spooky season draws nearer by the day. For most, this means it’s time for oversized sweaters, festive lattes, and most importantly, baking pies and carving pumpkins. Pumpkins have become a festive icon synonymous for fall and trips to the pumpkin patch to find the perfect pumpkin for pie or a scary jack-o-lantern are widely considered a fun family outing during this time. 

Although it may seem simple, picking out the right pumpkin for you and your family is a little more than what meets the eye. You want to make sure you’re getting the right variety, right color, and most importantly the right size. That’s why our friends at The Kitchn have put together this helpful list to pick the best baking and carving pumpkins.

What’s the Difference Between Pie and Carving Pumpkins?

Typically, pumpkin patches separate their pumpkins into two groups: pie pumpkins and carving pumpkins. Usually carving pumpkins are thinner and easier to cut into. They also have fewer seeds, or guts, making them much easier to clean compared to fuller, messier pumpkins. 

Pie pumpkins are typically smaller and rounder. They also have many more seeds and guts, and these are important in producing the most flavor for the pies. 

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Pumpkins That are Good for Carving

As previously mentioned, some pumpkin varieties are better for carving as opposed to others. Among these would include the Hobbit pumpkin and the Autumn Gold. Hobbit pumpkins are usually 10 to 12 pounds and could be considered to be medium-sized pumpkins. Autumn Gold pumpkins are much easier to manage as they come in at around 7 to 10 pounds. Before becoming ripe, these pumpkins turn a beautiful golden-orange hue and are much easier to carve compared to other varieties.

Now that you know the difference between the two, and which works best depending on the task, enjoy a wonderful day at the patch with your whole family!

Disclaimer: The stock image is being used for illustrative purposes only, and it is not a direct representation of the business, recipe, or activity listed. Any person depicted in the stock image is a model.