Wondering if pumpkin is a fruit? Get the answer to this question and more as we delve into everything pumpkin in this post! I’m even sharing 15 of my favorite pumpkin recipes.
Yes, pumpkin is a fruit. It is a type of squash that belongs to the gourd family, and botanically speaking, it is classified as a fruit because it contains seeds and develops from the flowering part of the plant.
However, in culinary terms, pumpkins are often treated as vegetables and fruits (similar to zucchini). This is why they can be used in savory dishes like soups and also in sweet recipes for things like cupcakes or pies.
Is Pumpkin Good For You?
Yes, according to HealthLine, pumpkin is good for you. It is a great source of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and vitamin E. Vitamin A, in the form of beta-carotene, is particularly abundant in pumpkins and is important for vision and immune function.
Pumpkin is also contains dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health and can help with weight management by promoting a feeling of fullness.
Of course, the way pumpkin is prepared also comes into play. For example, a slice of pumpkin pie is not as healthy as a bowl of pumpkin soup.
Can You Eat the Seeds?
Yes, pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, are entirely edible and quite nutritious. They are an excellent source of protein, healthy fats, fiber, vitamins (such as vitamin K and vitamin E), and minerals (including magnesium, potassium, and zinc). Pumpkin seeds also contain a good amount of heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
Our favorite way to eat pumpkin seeds is to roast them with a bit of oil and a mix of spices after carving our Halloween pumpkins. 🙂
15 Easy Pumpkin Recipes
Want to make something delicious with pumpkin? Here are 15 of my favorite pumpkin recipes:
Pumpkin Spice Latte
This easy pumpkin spice latte recipe hits all the cozy vibe notes! Flavored with brown sugar and autumn spices, it’s perfect topped with a generous serving of whipped cream and a sprinkle of ground cinnamon.
These Pumpkin Apple Muffins are one of my favorite fall-baking traditions. With tender pieces of apple and the warming flavors of cinnamon, cloves & nutmeg, every bite of these pumpkin muffins is an autumn treat.
This pumpkin brioche tastes as good as it looks. A beautiful, golden loaf of ultra-soft, rich, and buttery pumpkin bread that is sure to please this fall.
These are very fudgy, moist brownies with a thick batter. Super good warm with ice cream! The flavor is intensely chocolate. If you are a dark chocolate lover then you’ll love these.
Cozy up with irresistible pumpkin chocolate chip cookies for fall! An easy recipe for tender and chewy chocolate chip cookies filled with rich pumpkin flavor and warm autumn spices.
This Pumpkin Mug Cake is super easy to make and comes together in minutes! With just the right amount of pumpkin spice, it’s a simple fall dessert that will satisfy your sweet tooth with hardly any effort.
These gently spiced roasted pumpkin seeds are compulsively snackable! Flavored with smoked paprika, garlic powder, and chili powder with a dash of salt and pepper, these crunchy pumpkin seeds are a family favorite.
These hearty pumpkin corn cakes were inspired by a passage from Little House on the Prairie. They are filling, easy to make, and are just waiting for your favorite pancake toppings.
