Fall is known for apple picking, hay rides, pumpkin patches, and, of course, all the pumpkin flavored foods you never asked for but can look forward to anyway. This year, if you want to get a little creative, you can make some of your own pumpkin creations, using these seven easy pumpkin recipes, in your dorm room to enjoy and share with your friends or family, if you feel so inclined.
1. Microwave Pumpkin Pie
These adorable little mug pies are perfect for satisfying that pumpkin craving. They require only a few ingredients, which all can be easily found at your nearest grocery store. Then, just mix the ingredients and pop the mug-masterpiece-to-be into the microwave for two minutes, and your pie is ready. This recipe can be made with only mug and small bowl and spoon, making it ideal for easy clean up.
2. Pumpkin Overnight Oats
Pumpkin overnight oats are the perfect way to take advantage of the seasonal fresh pumpkin while also enjoying a quick and easy breakfast before class. The best part of overnight oats is that they are customizable and you can add or omit any ingredients to suit your tastes. These oats can be tailored to include pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, flax seeds, raisins, or other delicious adds to give your oats more body and help keep you fuller for longer.
3. Pumpkin Energy Balls
These energy balls are perfect for a snack or a quick breakfast on the run to a class. They can be made in five-minutes flat, and keep in the refrigerator for up to a week, or in the freezer for longer. The combination of pumpkin, nut butter, and chocolate chips, gives these energy balls a winning taste. Plus, the oatmeal and chia seeds add fiber and protein to help make them more satisfying.
4. Pumpkin Popsicles
Designed for breakfast, but also fitting for a snack or a sweet treat, these pumpkin popsicles add pumpkin puree, granola, Greek yogurt, and sweetener (optional) for a snack that is tangy, sweet, and perfect for all. These cold popsicles are ideal for those people experiencing that lingering warm summer weather in October and November, but still want to begin to enjoy the tastes of fall.
5. Pumpkin Cake
Pro tip: you can cook packaged cake mix in the microwave, using a microwave-safe dish and cooking on high until a toothpick comes out clean. This two-ingredient pumpkin cake melds the simplicity of packaged cake mix with pureed pumpkin and a three-ingredient glaze that compliments the earthy, sweet pumpkin flavor with a spicy glaze. This cake can be made in a larger batch if you have access to an oven. If not, the ingredients you purchase can be enough to make cakes for you, your roommates, your friends, and your professors (to make midterm season just a little sweeter).
6. Pumpkin Pie Parfait
Parfaits are a go-to easy breakfast or make-your-own dessert. This pumpkin parfait is made in three simple steps: 1) gather your ingredients 2) layer in your serving dish 3) enjoy. Invite your friends over and set up a parfait bar for them to customize their own delicious treat. It will be the perfect study break to celebrate the season. These easy pumpkin recipes don't get any easier than this!
7. Pumpkin Pasta
This pumpkin pasta is perhaps not what you would immediately think of when adding pumpkin to recipes. However, in my family, pumpkin ravioli is a much-anticipated meal item when the end of the year nears. This recipe combines simple ingredients for a big pay out, a uniquely delicious pasta dish that can be your upgraded version of creamy pasta.
So, buy up those cans of pureed pumpkin, and this year, go beyond the pumpkin spice lattes and store-bought sweets, and make some of these easy pumpkin recipes.