Pumpkins are a fall season staple, adding a touch of warmth and cheerfulness to any home.
But did you know that there are many different types of pumpkins? Each type has unique characteristics and uses, from the classic jack-o-lantern to the smaller sugar pumpkin.
This comprehensive guide will cover the different types of pumpkins, their attributes, and how to use them in your favourite recipes and crafts.
Whether you’re a novice pumpkin enthusiast or a seasoned pro, you’re sure to learn something new! So are you looking to add some autumnal flare to your cooking and home decor?
Pumpkins are the perfect way to add a cozy and festive touch to any meal or room. From sweet to savoury dishes to rustic decorations, pumpkins can be used for just about anything.
But with so many different types of pumpkins out there, it can be difficult to know which one to choose.
As said earlier, we’ll take a look at the different types of pumpkins, from decorative gourds to culinary staples, and explain how to use them in your cooking and home decor. Shall we?
1. Lakota
The Lakota pumpkin is a small, round squash with a distinct ribbed, green-gray skin and bright orange flesh.
Native to South America, the Lakota pumpkin is a popular winter squash variety that grows in many parts of the United States.
Its flavorful, sweet flesh and unique appearance make it perfect for various recipes, from soups and curries to pies and desserts.
The Lakota pumpkin is a low-calorie food with just 36 calories per cup, making it a great way to get extra nutrition into your diet without adding too many calories.
Additionally, the Lakota pumpkin is high in dietary fibre, providing nearly 8 grams per cup. It is the first on our list of different types of pumpkins, and it also contains vitamin A, potassium, and magnesium.
2. Cinderella
Cinderella pumpkins, also known as Rouge vif D’Etampes, are one of the most popular of the different types of pumpkins. They are bright orange-red and have an elongated shape resembling a turban.
These pumpkins are mostly used for decorative purposes due to their unique shape and vibrant colour, but they can also be used in recipes such as pumpkin pie or roasted pumpkin seeds.
Their skin is very thick, which makes them ideal for carving. They can grow to 20 pounds in size and have a sweet flavour that works great for baking and cooking.
When preparing Cinderella pumpkins, it is important to remember that they have thick skin and large seeds.
It is best to use a sharp knife or heavy-duty scissors to cut through the skin. Once opened, the seeds can be removed before the pumpkin is cooked. This type of pumpkin is perfect for making pies, soups, and even casseroles.
Roasted pumpkin seeds make a delicious snack, and the pumpkin flesh can be used in various recipes.
With its unique shape, vivid colour, and sweet flavour, the Cinderella pumpkin, the second on this list of different types of pumpkins, is a must-have for any fall recipe!
3. Blaze
Onto the third on our list of the different types of pumpkins, we have the Blaze pumpkin, an heirloom variety that was introduced in the mid-1800s.
This type of pumpkin is orange in colour and can reach up to 30 inches in diameter, making it one of the larger varieties.
The skin is thin and delicate, so it’s best not to store this type of pumpkin for long periods of time.
It’s best to cook with the Blaze pumpkin soon after harvesting it, as its flavour and sweetness peak shortly after harvest.
This pumpkin variety is great for making pies and purees and roasting or boiling for soups and stews.
Its creamy flesh is also delicious when cubed and added to dishes such as salads and stir-fries.
The Blaze pumpkin is a great choice for any home cook looking to add a bit of variety to their cooking.
4. Munchkin
The munchkin is a small, round pumpkin that typically weighs no more than one pound. It is often used for decorative purposes due to its small size and vibrant orange colour.
The munchkin has tough skin, but its inner flesh is sweet and succulent, making it perfect for baking and cooking.
When cooked, the munchkin maintains its shape, so it can easily be used in pies or tarts, as well as soups and stews. Its smaller size also makes it easy to store and transport.
Additionally, munchkins are typically quite affordable and can be found at many local farmers’ markets and grocery stores.
Munchkins are perfect for Halloween carving as they don’t require much effort and can be painted or decorated in whatever way you desire.
They’re also a great addition to any fall or winter decorations, adding a unique touch to the festive atmosphere.
Finally, munchkins make delicious desserts, such as muffins and cakes, and savoury dishes, like stuffing and soup.
The possibilities are endless for using this delicious, small pumpkin on our list of different types of pumpkins!
5. Musquee de Provence
Musquee de Provence is one of the different types of pumpkins that are native to the Provence region of France.
It is an heirloom variety, meaning it has been around for many generations. The pumpkin is large and round, usually weighing between 10 and 15 pounds.
Moving on, it has a thick, ribbed rind and can range in colour from yellow to orange. The flesh is creamy yellow with a unique sweet flavour.
When cooked, the texture of Musquee de Provence pumpkin is quite different from most pumpkins.
It has a light, flaky texture similar to mashed potatoes and can be used in various dishes. This includes soups, pies, bread, and even roast.
Because of its unique flavour, it’s a great addition to any meal. Additionally, the seeds can also be roasted for a crunchy snack.
6. Autumn Gold
The Autumn Gold pumpkin is an attractive bright orange variety of pumpkin. It has ribbed, round-shaped fruits weighing between 8 and 10 pounds.
The orange colour of the flesh is perfect for cooking, making it an ideal choice for pies, soups, and other recipes.
Its sweet flavour pairs nicely with savoury dishes, making it a popular choice for chefs.
Additionally, its hard exterior allows it to hold up well during baking and roasting. As a result, it can last several weeks after being harvested if stored properly.
The Autumn Gold pumpkin, which is on our list of different types of pumpkins, is also a great choice for decorating.
Its bright orange colour will be sure to add some vibrancy to your home during the autumn season.
Whether you carve it, paint it, or leave it as is, this pumpkin will surely bring a festive touch to your holiday decorations.
7. Orangita
The Orangita is a unique pumpkin variety, with its bright orange-red colour and knobbly shape.
It’s believed to have been discovered in Mexico and has since spread across Europe and the United States.
The flavour of the Orangita is mild and sweet, making it an ideal choice for baking, roasting, or even just eating raw.
It can be used as a garnish for salads, soups, and other dishes. When cooked, the flesh turns soft and creamy, and has a wonderful texture.
The Orangita pumpkin is also perfect for carving into decorative jack-o’-lanterns. This pumpkin type will make a statement at your Halloween celebration!
8. Fairytale
Fairytale pumpkins are a variety of heirloom pumpkins and are best known for their unique shape, which resembles that of a turban.
These pumpkins have a ridged and knobbed exterior with vibrant orange, red, and yellow hues. Their creamy-textured flesh is sweet and tastes like chestnuts.
These pumpkins are perfect for ornamental purposes, as they are eye-catching and can last for several weeks after harvesting if kept in a cool, dry place.
Fairytale pumpkins can also be cooked, roasted, and pureed for soups and pies, adding some sweetness and a festive flair to any dish. These are also different types of pumpkins you should know!
9. Long Island Cheese
The Long Island Cheese pumpkin is a unique variety of squash that originated in the state of New York in the 19th century.
It is a light orange colour with ribbing and a sweet, nutty flavour. This pumpkin type is versatile and can be used for sweet and savoury dishes.
It is considered one of the different types of pumpkins and is often roasted, mashed, or pureed into soups and sauces.
The flesh of the Long Island Cheese is creamy and thick and makes an excellent substitute for traditional ricotta cheese.
This pumpkin variety is particularly well suited to baking pies, muffins, and bread. It is also an excellent addition to salads and stir-fries.
When selecting a Long Island Cheese pumpkin, look for one that is firm and free of blemishes or soft spots. For best results, store in a cool, dry place and use within a week of purchase.
10. Blue Doll
The Blue Doll pumpkin, also known as the Rouge vif d’Etampes pumpkin, is a French heirloom variety that dates back to the 1800s.
It has a flattened, slightly ribbed shape with an intense deep orange-red hue and bluish overtones.
The Blue Doll pumpkin is typically used for ornamental purposes due to its unique coloration, but it can also be eaten as well.
Its flesh is quite sweet and can be used in pies, soups, and other dishes. Its round shape makes it ideal for carving jack-o’-lanterns.
This pumpkin variety grows to 8 inches in diameter and ripens to a deep orange-red colour when ripe.
Further, it is also on our list of different types of pumpkins and has thick walls, making it ideal for use in cooking and baking.
The Blue Doll pumpkin is a popular choice for home gardeners because of its unique look and flavour. It’s easy to grow and has good disease resistance.
Whether you’re looking for a pumpkin for ornamental or culinary uses, the Blue Doll is sure to delight you.
11. Warty Goblin
The Warty Goblin pumpkin is a unique variety that can be used for ornamental and culinary purposes.
This type of pumpkin has a light green hue, and its skin is covered in wart-like protrusions. Its texture is thick, making it perfect for baking and carving.
When it comes to flavour, the Warty Goblin is slightly sweet and nutty, with a hint of tanginess. The flesh is dense and creamy, making it an ideal ingredient in pies, soups, and other dishes.
Due to its unique look, the Warty Goblin is often seen as an accent piece when decorating for Halloween or fall festivals.
The warty exterior of this one of the different types of pumpkins also makes it a fun addition to your garden.
With its versatility and unique look, the Warty Goblin pumpkin is a great option for any home chef or gardener.
12. Knucklehead
The Knucklehead pumpkin is a unique variety of pumpkins with its own unique characteristics. It has an odd-shaped body, an odd nose, and an indented forehead.
The skin is green with stripes of yellow and orange. The flesh is orange, and it has a sweet flavour.
Additionally, this pumpkin is great for carving and for decoration. Knucklehead pumpkins are good for cooking and baking as well.
They can be used in soups, stews, pies, and casseroles. They can also be roasted or steamed to bring out their sweetness.
With the right spices, the flesh can have a delicious flavour that pairs well with many dishes. So try adding a Knucklehead pumpkin to your next dish and see what you come up with!
13. Connecticut Field
The Connecticut Field pumpkin is a round, medium-sized squash that is popular among home gardeners.
It has a deep orange colour and smooth skin, making it a great choice for cooking and carving. This type of pumpkin is often used for pies, pumpkin bread, and other baked goods.
The Connecticut Field, one of the different types of pumpkins, has firm flesh and sweet flavour, so it’s perfect for savoury dishes too. It can also be used to make jack-o’lanterns and other decorative pieces.
This pumpkin is an heirloom variety that was developed in the late 19th century by farmers in Connecticut.
It’s one of the most popular varieties in the United States and can be found in many markets. It can be stored for several months when kept in a cool, dry place.
To get the most flavour out of this type of pumpkin, it’s best to cook it soon after picking or buying it.
So if you’re looking for a tasty, versatile squash to add to your kitchen, look no further than the Connecticut Field pumpkin!
14. Black Futsu
The Black Futsu pumpkin is an heirloom variety that was developed in Japan more than 100 years ago. It’s a large, flat-shaped, dark green-coloured fruit with orange flesh.
The rind is extremely hard and resistant to cracking or splitting, making it a great choice for those looking for a longer shelf life from their pumpkins.
The flavour of the Black Futsu is not as sweet as other varieties, but it is still considered to be a flavorful pumpkin.
This type of pumpkin is perfect for roasting and can be used for soups, pies, or any other recipe you may have in mind. It can also be used to make pumpkin puree or roasted pumpkin seeds.
If you’re looking for a unique pumpkin to add to your fall menu, the Black Futsu is a great choice.
15. Green Striped Cushaw
Next up on our list of different types of pumpkins is the Green Striped Cushaw, a type of pumpkin with a unique shape and flavour.
The pumpkin has an oblong shape with green stripes running down its sides. Its rind is quite thin, and the flesh is a deep orange colour. It is perfect for soups, pies, bread, and stews.
The Green Striped Cushaw also makes a great roasted side dish or can be used as part of a stuffed pumpkin meal.
The sweet and savoury taste of this pumpkin is something that no other pumpkin can replicate. The Green Striped Cushaw has strong disease resistance and can be grown in various soil types.
It needs plenty of sunlight to produce the most flavorful crop and does best when grown on well-drained soil.
Harvesting should be done once the fruit is ripe and ready, usually when it is still green but the stripes are starting to turn yellow.
Once harvested, the pumpkins should be stored in a cool, dark place until they are ready to be used. With its unique flavour and texture, this pumpkin will surely be a hit in any kitchen.
16. Cotton Candy
Cotton Candy pumpkin is a round, white pumpkin with a smooth, creamy texture and a hint of pastel blue.
This variety of pumpkins has a sweet, almost candy-like flavour that pairs nicely with other fall flavours, such as cinnamon and nutmeg.
The Cotton Candy pumpkin is an heirloom variety, meaning it has been passed down for generations and is grown in limited quantities.
Moreso, it’s perfect for adding a unique and seasonal touch to your Thanksgiving or holiday table.
Cotton Candy pumpkins can make pies, soups, stews, or roasted side dishes. With its unique flavour and colour, this variety of pumpkins will surely be a hit with all your guests.
When looking for a Cotton Candy pumpkin, it is important to know that they tend to be smaller than other different types of pumpkin.
They typically weigh between 5 and 10 pounds and have an average circumference of 11 inches.
To get the most flavour out of your Cotton Candy pumpkin, look for heavy and firm ones with a smooth texture and no blemishes or bruises.
Try roasting your Cotton Candy pumpkin with honey or brown sugar for extra sweetness. This will bring out the natural sugars in the pumpkin and add a nice sweetness to any dish.
17. Big Moon
The Big Moon is an incredibly large type of pumpkin, usually reaching up to 24 inches in diameter.
This pumpkin has a classic shape and is known for its bright orange colour, smooth surface, and thin but strong walls.
It is one of the many different types of pumpkins that is also quite heavy, weighing up to 18 pounds.
Its sweet flesh is ideal for making pies and other desserts, but it can also be used in soups and stews. Its thick rind can also be dried and used for decorations or craft projects.
The Big Moon is great for those who need a large amount of pumpkin to feed a crowd or make a special dish.
18. Atlantic Giant
The Atlantic Giant pumpkin is the world’s largest pumpkin, often weighing in at over 1,000 pounds.
These gargantuan pumpkins can measure up to 8 feet in circumference and are usually used in competitive pumpkin-growing contests. They have thick walls that are great for baking, and they have a deep orange colour.
The Atlantic Giant pumpkin is usually bright orange and is often thought of as the classic pumpkin.
The Atlantic Giant pumpkin is a very popular choice for fall decorations. Its large size makes it perfect for carving jack-o-lanterns or using it as a centrepiece for holiday displays.
This pumpkin is easy to cook, as its flesh is soft and flavorful when roasted or pureed. Whether you’re looking for a giant pumpkin for your front porch or a delicious recipe ingredient, the Atlantic Giant is sure to satisfy you!
19. Big Max
If you are searching for different types of pumpkins, Big Max pumpkins are part of the Mammoth family and are widely used for decoration and making pies.
They have a deep orange colour and a unique shape that makes them stand out from other varieties.
The flesh of the Big Max pumpkin is sweet, dense, and firm, making it perfect for baking. They usually weigh between 40-50 pounds and can measure up to 20 inches in diameter.
While they are excellent for carving and decoration, their size makes them difficult to cook. This is because it can take up to eight hours to roast one in an oven.
20. Kakai
Kakai is a type of pumpkin that is characterized by its very dark green to black exterior. Its unique colour makes it perfect for decorative purposes, and the fruit itself is edible when cooked.
The Kakai is small and round and can be cooked in various ways, such as mashed, roasted, pureed, or steamed.
Thanks to its rich flavour and texture, it is also popularly used as an ingredient in soup and other dishes.
The Kakai, which is likewise one of the different types of pumpkins, has a thick rind and is full of seeds. It has a sweet taste and can be used in savoury and sweet dishes.
The Kakai pumpkin is a great choice for fall and winter recipes, as it is easy to store and cook.
21. Crown Prince
The Crown Prince pumpkin is an heirloom variety that is known for its deep orange-red colour and attractive shape.
The pumpkins have a distinctive ribbed surface and grow to a size of approximately 6-8 pounds.
This variety is a favourite of many home gardeners due to its long shelf life and its sweet, nutty flavour.
In addition to that, it is a good choice for baking pies, making soup, or other recipes. These pumpkins are easy to grow and have a relatively short maturity time.
The vines tend to be quite prolific, producing several fruits in the same season. This variety of pumpkins is popular in many areas of Europe and North America.
They are well suited to be stored for a long time, as they keep their shape and flavour even after months of being stored.
When preparing the Crown Prince pumpkin, cutting the top off carefully is important, as the skin can be quite tough.
Once cut, the flesh should be scooped out and cooked until tender. This variety of pumpkins has a creamy texture and can be used in many different dishes or enjoyed independently.
This is also on our list of several different types of pumpkins you may not know!
22. Casper
Casper is one of the most unique of the different types of pumpkins. It has a distinctive, bright white colour and a smooth, ribbed exterior.
This variety is medium to large in size, averaging 5-15 pounds, and its round shape makes it ideal for carving.
While it’s less common than other pumpkin varieties, its beautiful appearance makes it perfect for decorating and baking.
The Casper pumpkin can be cooked and eaten, but its flavour may not be as desirable as that of other different types of pumpkins.
The Casper pumpkin is typically grown in Europe and North America, though it can also be found in other parts of the world.
This pumpkin can reach up to 20 pounds when grown in optimal conditions. The Casper pumpkin is also very easy to care for, as it only needs to be watered twice a week, and the soil is moist but not soggy.
With its eye-catching look and ease of cultivation, the Casper pumpkin is sure to be a hit with gardeners and chefs alike.
23. White Pie
The White Pie pumpkin is a unique type of pumpkin that is not only visually distinctive but also has an excellent flavour.
This variety of pumpkins has a white exterior and orange flesh on the inside, making it stand out among other varieties.
The White Pie pumpkin is typically larger than other pumpkins and can reach sizes up to 15-20 pounds.
It has a sweet flavour, which makes it great for baking pies, soups, and other desserts. It can also be used in savoury dishes such as roasted pumpkin and mashed potatoes.
This type of pumpkin is very easy to grow and ideal for gardeners looking to add colour and texture to their gardens.
24. Blue Lakota
Of the different types of pumpkins, Blue Lakota is a type that is considered a novelty or specialty item. It is an attractive blue-grey colour with bright white flesh.
This type of pumpkin is smaller than other varieties and can reach a weight of about 10 pounds. The flavour of the Blue Lakota pumpkin is slightly nutty, sweet, and creamy.
This type of pumpkin is usually used for decorations, as it holds its shape well when cooked. It can also be used for pies, soups, and other recipes.
The Blue Lakota pumpkin has thick walls, so it’s perfect for stuffing with your favourite ingredients.
It is also an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which benefit healthy skin and eyesight. This type of pumpkin is easy to grow and matures 85-95 days after planting.
The Blue Lakota pumpkin is a unique and tasty option for your fall festivities and will add a splash of colour to any dish.
25. Jarrahdale
Jarrahdale is a popular variety of pumpkins known for its warty green skin and bright orange flesh.
This type of pumpkin has dense, sweet flesh and is ideal for baking, roasting, and making purees.
It’s also perfect for carving and decorating because of its unique shape and deep ribbing.
The Jarrahdale pumpkin has become increasingly popular in the United States, with many farmers growing it in their fields and gardens. The flavour of this type of pumpkin is sweet, nutty, and slightly earthy.
Jarrahdale pumpkins are typically harvested in the late summer or early fall and can be stored for up to a year when kept in cool, dry conditions.
Overall, the Jarrahdale pumpkin is an excellent choice for a wide range of recipes and is sure to add a delicious flavour to your dish.
Whether you’re looking for a unique addition to your holiday table or need something special for a pumpkin-themed event, the Jarrahdale pumpkin is sure to please.
With its distinctive shape and flavour, it’s no wonder that this type of pumpkin is becoming more popular each year!
26. Harvest Moon
Harvest Moon pumpkins are also different types of pumpkins that are large, round fruits with bright orange skin.
This type of pumpkin is ideal for baking as it has a very sweet and intense flavour. It can also be used to make soup and other dishes due to its high sugar content.
Harvest Moon pumpkins have a firm texture, making them perfect for carving into a decorative jack-o-lantern for Halloween.
This type of pumpkin is very popular in North America and the United Kingdom. The seeds are also edible and can be roasted for a healthy snack.
27. Kabocha
Kabocha is a type of squash that looks like a pumpkin and is often referred to as a Japanese pumpkin.
It has dark green skin with orange or yellow streaks and is smaller than traditional pumpkins.
The flesh inside is bright orange and very sweet, with a nutty taste that makes it perfect for roasting, baking, and other recipes.
Kabocha is a great option for adding sweetness and texture to dishes without adding extra sugar or fat.
It’s low in calories and high in fibre, vitamins, and minerals, making it a healthy and delicious addition to any meal. Kabocha is also great for making pumpkin-based desserts such as pies and tarts.
The thick flesh holds its shape well during baking, so you can easily create beautiful desserts with Kabocha.
The sweet flavor pairs wonderfully with other classic pumpkin spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
For a twist on classic pumpkin recipes, try adding some unique flavours to Asian cuisines, such as sesame oil, tamari, or soy sauce.
You’ll be amazed at a depth of flavour that Kabocha can add to your desserts! We are still not done with our list of different types of pumpkins; read on!
28. Flat White Boer Ford
The Flat White Boer Ford pumpkin is a large, round variety of pumpkins with ivory-coloured, mottled skin.
It was originally developed in South Africa and is popular worldwide due to its robust flavour and sweet orange flesh.
The pumpkin is so-named because of its distinctive flat shape and white streaks in the skin.
It is on our list of different types of pumpkins that are a good choice for carving, cooking, baking, and roasting.
The flesh is sweet and thick, making it ideal for making pies, soups, and other desserts. The thick rind makes it excellent for storage, making it a great option for those who want to have pumpkins available all year round.
29. Crystal Star
The Crystal Star pumpkin is a variety that is considered a hybrid and is a cross between a Cinderella and a Jarrahdale.
This pumpkin is round, medium-sized, and features smooth grayish skin with green stripes. It has yellow-orange flesh and can be used for baking or cooking.
The Crystal Star tastes very sweet, making it great for pies and other desserts. It is also known to be an excellent storage keeper, retaining its flavour and texture for months when stored properly.
This type of pumpkin is especially popular in the United States, where it can be found in many grocery stores and farmers’ markets.
30. Winter Luxury
Lastly, on this list of different types of pumpkins is winter luxury. This pumpkin is a great choice for decorating and cooking, and its smaller size makes it perfect for little hands to help in the kitchen.
Planting it among other different types of pumpkins will give you a beautiful display that’s sure to draw attention.
So why not try this unique and delicious variety of pumpkins this fall season? You won’t regret it!
Conclusion
Are you a pumpkin enthusiast looking to learn more about the different types of pumpkins? If so, you’ve come to the right place!
This comprehensive guide provides an overview of the various different types of pumpkins, along with helpful tips on how to choose the right pumpkin for your needs.
Whether you’re looking for a classic carving pumpkin or a unique variety for baking or decorating, this guide has you covered.
So get ready to explore the world of different types of pumpkins! All the best!
