Fall has arrived, and with it, the beloved pumpkin spice craze! From cozy lattes to decadent desserts, pumpkin flavor is popping up everywhere. But did you know this seasonal favorite pairs perfectly with dairy? Whether it’s for your breakfast table or helping dairy cows produce fresh milk, pumpkins and dairy are truly a match made in heaven.
Pumpkin-Spiced Dairy Delights
If you’re a pumpkin spice enthusiast, there’s no better way to enjoy the season than by adding a splash of dairy to your favorite treats. We’ve rounded up some must-try recipes that will leave you wanting more.
Pumpkin Pie in a Glass
When you’re craving pumpkin pie but don’t want to wait until dessert, this pumpkin pie parfait is your go-to solution. Creamy, smooth, and packed with the warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg, this treat combines fresh milk and vanilla yogurt for a satisfying sip that’s ready in minutes. It’s the ultimate fall indulgence!
Pumpkin French Toast
Looking to elevate your brunch game? This pumpkin French toast is your answer! Thick slices of bread soak up a rich mixture of milk, eggs, and pumpkin puree, with a generous dash of pumpkin spice to bring out all the best fall flavors. Perfect for lazy weekends or special mornings, this dish is a surefire hit.
Pumpkin Pancakes
If you prefer pancakes over French toast, then we have you covered. Embrace the flavors of the season and indulge in breakfast or brunch with pumpkin pancakes. Topping the pancakes with yogurt adds a creamy, tangy twist that’s not only delicious but also packed with protein and probiotics.
Pumpkin Macaroni and Cheese
For a savory twist on your pumpkin cravings, try Pumpkin mac and cheese. This creamy dish blends velvety cheddar cheese and milk with the subtle sweetness of pumpkin puree, creating the ultimate comfort food. It’s a hearty, fall-inspired take on a classic that’s sure to warm you up on cool autumn nights.
Pumpkins and Cows: A Perfect Pairing
Now here’s something you might not know—pumpkins aren’t just great in recipes, they’re also an important part of dairy farming! When the pumpkin season winds down and leftover pumpkins start to pile up, farmers put them to good use by mixing them into cow feed.
Thanks to their unique digestive system, cows can break down pumpkins and get valuable nutrients from them, including proteins, fiber and vitamins A and E. This boost helps cows produce even more of the fresh milk you love! So, while you’re sipping that pumpkin spice latte, remember that pumpkins are helping both you and dairy cows enjoy a nutritious season.
Reduce Waste, Increase Milk: The Power of Pumpkins
Cows are often called the “ultimate recyclers” for good reason. By incorporating leftover produce, like pumpkins, into their feed, farmers reduce food waste and contribute to environmentally sustainable farming practices. It’s a full-circle process that benefits everyone — pumpkins stay out of landfills, cows get a healthy energy boost, and we all enjoy the delicious, creamy results in our dairy products.
Make This Fall Dairy-licious!
Whether you’re making pumpkin French toast for the family or knowing that cows are getting their seasonal treat, fall is the perfect time to celebrate the amazing connection between dairy and pumpkins. Enjoy even more pumpkin spice inspiration from our friends at Savor Recipes, and embrace the season in the most delicious (and sustainable!) way possible.
