How to Choose the Right Pumpkins for Decorating vs. Cooking
Not all pumpkins are created equal — especially when it comes to how you use them. Whether you're planning to line your porch with autumn color or whip up a fresh batch of roasted pumpkin soup, knowing which pumpkins work best for what can save you time, money, and disappointment.
Here’s a simple guide to help you choose the right pumpkins for your fall goals — decorative or delicious.
1. Decorative Pumpkins: What to Look For
If your goal is to style a beautiful porch display, your priorities are shape, color, and durability — not taste.
Look for:
Thick, sturdy stems (they hold up better in arrangements)
Flat or rounded bases that sit well on steps or hay bales
Unblemished skin in classic or heirloom shades like white, green, or muted orange
Some popular decorative varieties:
Jarrahdale – bluish-green, beautifully shaped, long-lasting
Cinderella – wide and squat, adds whimsical shape to your porch
Lumina – smooth white pumpkin that pops against wood or brick
Knucklehead or Warty Goblin – fun texture, great for kids and Halloween setups
Tip: These pumpkins can last several weeks — sometimes even months — outdoors if kept dry and out of direct sun.
2. Cooking Pumpkins: Best for Flavor and Texture
The pumpkins you decorate with aren’t always the ones you want to eat. Carving and display pumpkins tend to be watery, stringy, and bland — not ideal for cooking.
For recipes, look for smaller, denser varieties with rich flesh and a high sugar content.
Top culinary picks:
Sugar Pie Pumpkins – sweet, smooth, and perfect for baking
Fairytale – slightly nutty flavor and great for roasting
Long Island Cheese – creamy texture and a favorite for pies
Kabocha (technically a squash) – great for soups, curries, and savory dishes
Tip: Cooking pumpkins are often labeled “pie pumpkins” at the market — and they tend to weigh in under 6–8 pounds.
3. Can You Use Decorative Pumpkins in Recipes?
Technically, yes — especially if they’re unpainted, uncoated, and freshly picked. But the taste and texture may fall flat, and some decorative varieties have tough rinds or stringy interiors that aren’t fun to prep.
A good rule of thumb:
If it’s meant for looks, leave it on the porch.
If it’s meant for flavor, keep it in the kitchen.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right pumpkin starts with knowing your purpose. Whether you're curating a cozy fall porch or cooking up a seasonal dish, there’s a variety that fits the job. Mix and match as you go — a porch full of personality and a kitchen full of flavor make for the best kind of autumn.
And if you’re just here for the porch part?
We’ve got you covered.