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Does pumpkin pie have to be refrigerated?

Does pumpkin pie have to be refrigerated?

If you only eat pumpkin pie in the fall, it’s easy to forget the rules of safely storing them. You may wonder if pumpkin and other custard-style pies can be left on the counter overnight or if you need to clear space in your fridge. And now that we’re on the topic, can pumpkin pie be frozen? Here are the answers to all your pumpkin pie problems: How to store pumpkin pie from a store This time of year you’re likely to see pumpkin pies at the grocery store sitting out on a table, rather than stacked in the fridge or freezer sections. Store-bought pumpkin pies are loaded with enough shelf-stable preservatives that they can sit out. Rule of thumb: if you purchased a pie that’s been sitting out, it can continue to sit out on your kitchen counter for a few days (or until its expiration date, if it…

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Crave-Worthy Recipes

How to pick the best butternut squash

How to pick a perfect butternut squash-2

Fall has finally arrived and winter squash are stocked on the shelves — acorn, spaghetti, and of course, butternut. Butternut squash a must-have fall vegetable that dates back nearly 10,000 years ago.  It’s true. Archaeological evidence suggests that squash was first cultivated in what is now known as the Isthmus of Panama. Squash was one of the three main crops (known as the “Three Sisters” — maize, beans, and squash) planted by Native Americans. If you’re looking for authentic North American fall foods for your Thanksgiving feast, squash certainly qualifies. (Read more at: How Americans Became so Obsess with Pumpkins) The most noticeable difference between winter squash and summer squash, like zucchini and yellow squash, is the exterior skin. Summer squash have thin, flavorful skin you leave on and eat, while winter squash have a tough, inedible outer shell. It’s because of this shell, however, that winter squash can be…

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Pumpkin and sage stuffed shells

pumpkin_stuffed_shells_3

The best thing about fall? The food, OF COURSE! While summer is the season for fresh fruit and farmers markets, fall is time for casseroles, crock pots, and delicious comfort foods. Which takes me to my latest recipe… We had two days of fall-like weather last week and already I’m inspired to break out the pumpkin! These pumpkin ricotta stuffed shells would be a perfect addition to your holiday spread, or anytime you want a savory, seasonal dish to share — this recipe makes a lot of shells! The fresh sage and nutty Romano cheese are the perfect way to accent that rich pumpkin flavor. Plus, the light pumpkin taste in the sauce makes this dish truly something different. You’re going to love this this seasonal switch-up on an old classic. Note: Get 100% pumpkin puree (I like Libby’s brand). Other pumpkin blends can sometimes come with fall spices mixed in…

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News Bites

10 Vegetables that are really fruits

10 Vegetables that are really fruits_pumpkin

Squeezing enough vegetables into your diet can be difficult enough — and that’s before you start considering that some of those veggies are actually fruits. Scientifically speaking, a fruit comes from a seed-bearing part of a plant that grows as the result of a fertilized flower. Another way to tell is that fruits usually have seeds on the inside. Vegetables on the other hand, come from just about any other part of a plant. Fruits and vegetables tend to get categorized in Western culture based off of how we use them — savory must mean it’s a vegetable, and sweet must mean it’s a fruit. But of course, in the botanical world, things are really more complicated than that. Here are 10 vegetables that really should count as part of your daily fruit intake: 1. Tomato You’ve likely heard this one before, but many people still get this wrong thanks…

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Pumpkin banana smoothie a delicious breakfast for fall

Pumpkin Banana smoothie a delicious breakfast for fall

I know what you’re thinking. It’s not technically even fall yet. If you’re one of those people who can’t even look at a pumpkin until September 21, then I advise you to temporarily seek recipes elsewhere. I’m about to blow up this blog with pumpkin recipes — this Pumpkin Banana smoothie is just the beginning. I love using a bit of pumpkin puree in my fall breakfast smoothies. It’s an easy way to add fiber and flavor while getting in a festive mood. Plus, pumpkin is packed with protein, rich in antioxidants, and high in vitamin A. One trick I can’t emphasize enough is freezing your fruit — or even just half of it. So, say your recipe calls for berries and bananas — make sure your berries are frozen and use a fresh banana. Freezing at least one of your fruits can save you from having to water your…

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Seasonal

10 things you never knew about Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spice Latte

10 things you never knew about Starbucks' Pumpkin Spice LatteStarbucks

Forget about changing leaves, cozy sweaters or football games, the official signal of fall has arguably become the arrival of the Pumpkin Spice Latte to Starbucks cafe menus nationwide. But before you take a sip of your first PSL this season, here are 10 fun facts you need to know about everyone’s favorite fall beverage. Also read, how Americans became so obsessed with pumpkin in the first place.  1. A smashing pumpkin success Starbucks sells about 20 million Pumpkin Spice Lattes every year. Considering how many I personally purchase … yeah … that sounds about right. It remains the store’s best-selling seasonal drink of all time. And more than 200 million have been sold worldwide. 2. It’s all thanks to Peter Dukes Peter Dukes was the director of espresso Americas for Starbucks back in 2003. He led a development of the Pumpkin Spice Latte. His team of employees ate slices of…

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News Bites

When will Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spice Latte return to stores?

Pumpkin spice latte sauce has arrived at StarbucksStarbucks

The weather might still say summer, but for pumpkin lovers across the country, the calendar only means one thing — the return of the Pumpkin Spice Latte. Yes, September is right around the corner, meaning that PSL fans are pulling on their cozy sweaters and counting down the days. While Starbucks has yet to announce the official release date of the iconic drink, employees told Business Insider the pumpkin spice latte would be returning Tuesday, August 27 — it’s earliest release date ever.  Typically, the PSL returns right around Labor Day weekend. Starbucks employees have been posting photos of the Pumpkin Spice syrup arriving at stores throughout this month, further fueling PSL superfans’ cravings. Can’t wait until the end of August for a taste of fall? Dunkin’ has your back. On Monday, Dunkin’ announced it would launch its fall menu on August 21. Menu items returning include pumpkin spice drinks, coffee and…

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Crave-Worthy Recipes

Easy cream free pumpkin bisque

Easy cream free pumpkin bisque

This pumpkin bisque soup is made with ingredients you likely already have at your house. Isn’t it great when that happens? No special stop at the grocery store required — just get right to cooking, and this soup will be ready in 20 minutes. This recipe is perfect for cool, crisp October and November when everyone is craving pumpkin. But it’s easy enough, you’ll be tempted to make it all year long. It’s so tasty, there’s no reason not to! There is a hint of curry, but if it’s not your favorite, don’t be alarmed. It’s a fairly subtle flavor. The same goes for the coconut milk. They’re there, but they’re not overpowering. This recipe can easily be adapted to be vegan — just use vegetable broth. It’s also naturally dairy-free, so it’s great for serving when you’re not totally sure the modern day diets of your group of family…

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Chocolate Pumpkin muffins

Chocolate Pumpkin muffins_2

These dense and chocolatey muffins hit the just right spot for fall. The pumpkin keeps them super moist and adds just a hint of a fall flavor. Devour them as dessert, breakfast, or as a snack along with your tea or coffee. Note that this recipe makes two dozen muffins because 12 disappear way too fast! Chocolate Pumpkin muffins Makes 24 muffins (2 pans of 12) Ingredients 3-3/4 cups all purpose flour 3 1/2 cups sugar 1 cup baking cocoa powder 1-1/2 tsp baking powder 1-1/4 tsp baking soda 1-1/2 tsp salt 1-1/4 tsp ground cloves 1/2 tsp nutmeg 3 large eggs 2 cans (15 ounce) pumpkin puree 1-1/4 cups canola oil 1-1/2 tsp vanilla extract 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips 1/2 cup pepitas Directions Preheat over to 350ºF. Spray 12-count muffin pan with cooking spray. Set aside. In a large bowl, whisk to combine the dry ingredients — flour,…

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Pumpkin Mac and Cheese perfect for fall

Pumpkin Mac and Cheese perfect for fall7Meghann Rodgers

Here’s an earthy mac and cheese that takes a risk and wins! Pumpkin and cheese are actually make a great flavor combination. If you’re skeptical, substitute for another squash such as butternut squash. This quick dish is yummy and totally fun for fall. Imagine the surprise when you tell everyone it has a touch of pumpkin! The flavor isn’t overwhelming. It’s just subtle enough that you can taste the unique fall take on this class comfort food. Pumpkin puree has a moist, velvety texture, and it will keep the cheese gooey a little longer, I find. I like to grate my own cheese because it melts faster too, but whether you buy bagged or block, make sure it’s extra sharp cheddar — there’ just more flavor that way. Note: Be sure to use pumpkin puree and nothing labeled “pumpkin pie mix.” The latter has lots of spices mixed. Pumpkin Mac and…

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