At last, fall is officially here – as if we could possibly miss its highly anticipated arrival! And with it comes the rich autumn colors, crisp cool air, fabulous fall fashion, and all other welcome fall favorites that make it the best season ever. But aside from the change in weather, the beautiful foliage, and delightful candle scents like Apple Cider, or Cinnamon Stick, there’s another craze, completely unique to the turn of the season, that has collegiettes everywhere in a frenzy. No, not the absentee boyfriends we deal with each Sunday; I’m talking about pumpkin spice season, duh!
Finally, our obsession with pumpkin spice treats can be kept in check thanks to the arrival of fall! We have our pumpkin spice lattes from Starbucks, our pumpkin donuts from Dunkin’, there’s even pumpkin spice vodka! I mean seriously, it’s like pumpkin spice errythang, and it’s absolute heaven.
Now, it’s been said that this penchant for pumpkin is what some would consider “basic” AKA simple, unoriginal and boring. But let me tell you that anyone who feels this way is seriously disturbed. A collegiette’s affinity for pumpkin is so much more than a pumpkin spice vodka-induced hangover and the pumpkin spice latte that cures it! And for this reason, I’m here to disprove the popular notion that pumpkin is only for the plain and uninspired. Also, anyone who thinks the only recipe involving pumpkin is pumpkin pie is a fool. There are a million reasons to enjoy pumpkin this fall, and a ton of different recipes you can make that don’t involve paying five dollars for 150 milligrams of caffeine, or sucking up to your grandma for her pumpkin pie recipe. Trust me, this is Not Your Basic Guide to Pumpkin.
First off, has anyone even considered the amazing benefits of pumpkin itself? Pumpkins are awesome for your eyesight, with a healthy dose of vitamin A in just one cup. They also have vitamin C to keep your immune system going strong as the weather gets colder. They keep you fuller for longer, thanks to high amounts of fiber, but are lower in calories, making them a great snack or side to any meal. They’re loaded with antioxidants, helping to fight against cancer and keep skin looking healthy and wrinkle-free. High levels of potassium make pumpkins perfect for workout recovery, allowing your body to refuel and re-energize. And pumpkin seeds are full of healthy fats and amino acids that can even boost your mood.
And now, as if we needed more reason to enjoy this seasonal delight, here are just a few of the many innovative ways to enjoy pumpkin this Fall. Check out these 16 recipes in this Not-So-Basic Guide to Pumpkin:
So go ahead, Instagram your pumpkin spice waffles, flaunt your pumpkin protein shake, and be proud of your pumpkin fudge, because there is no shame in enjoying the amazingness and versatility that is pumpkin spice. Let collegiettes everywhere know that you stand in solidarity with them: pumpkin spice is here to stay. And remember, it is sooo not basic!
Collegiettes Love Pumpkin: A Not-So-Basic Guide to Pumpkin Spice Treats
