Pumpkin Parfaits
Not just for jack-o-lanterns!
Pumpkins are an often overlooked squash, but they are surprisingly tasty and easy to prepare. These pumpkin parfaits are a perfect way to enjoy it, but first you’ll need some fresh (preferably!) pumpkin purée to get started!
Pumpkin Purée How-To
Select a nice “pie” pumpkin. You can find these at your local farmers market or orchard. Wash the exterior of the pumpkin in cool or warm water, no soap is required, but you may give it a spritz of vinegar to ease your mind.
Remove the stringy insides of the pumpkin and set them aside to compost. Be sure to save the seeds for roasting.
If you plan to use your pumpkin as a jack-o-lantern, scoop out the pumpkin meat next but be sure to leave enough for the pumpkin to retain and hold its shape.
Steam the meat on the stove-top for 15 minutes (or until soft), remove the skin and mash.
If you don’t plan to use the pumpkin for that purpose, cut the pumpkin in half and place both halves flat side down on a cookie sheet. Covering the sheet with foil will help, but is not required.
Bake at 350° F for 90 minutes. Let the pumpkin halves cool enough to handle and then scoop out the flesh, then mash!
Voila! Homemade pumpkin purée! If you have a baby in the family, pumpkin pie puree makes a great first food.
Ingredients
- 2 ups Vanilla Greek Yogurt or plain + add vanilla
- 1/2 up Pumpkin Puree see above
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/8 tsp ground ginger
- 1/8 tsp ground cloves
- Granola or Ginger Snaps
Instructions
- Mix the spices (or use 1 1/2 tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice).
- Whip up 1 3/4 cups Greek vanilla yogurt with a pinch of the spice mixture.
- Mix pumpkin puree with 1/4 cup of the Greek vanilla yogurt and the remaining spice mixture.
- Layer the puree and yogurt as desired and top with your favorite granola, or crushed ginger snaps.