There is no doubt that my absolute favorite aspect of the Fall season is that I can eat pumpkin flavored anything. There’s pumpkin ice cream, bread, cheesecakes and truffles. From late September through early December, chances are I’ll be ordering whatever pumpkin dessert is on the menu. As a pumpkin enthusiast, I decided to compile a list of my favorite fall foods and drinks that UW-Madison students can get on and around campus. Take a look and then get out there to sample a piece of pumpkin heaven.
Pumpkin Spice Latte (Starbucks)
No list of pumpkin treats is complete without the infamous pumpkin spice latte at Starbucks. Every year I anxiously await the day after Labor Day, the day I can finally wrap my cold hands around a warm and white to-go cup. This iconic beverage is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year and I, for one, cannot wait for 10 more tasty years. Make sure to at least pick up a delicious pumpkin spice latte once this Fall from Starbucks on your way to class — I can assure that days class will be all the more better.
Pumpkin Muffie (Panera)
This fluffy “muffie” looks like a big, soft top of a muffin top, which is typically my favorite part of any muffin or cupcake. Besides the wonderful pumpkin flavors, I can taste the sweet taste of honey. My favorite part has to be the dusting of powdered sugar on top. This decadent treat is the perfect study snack! Even though it is getting colder each day, believe me when I say it will be worth it to make a trip to Panera. As all the scrumptious flavors melt in your mouth you will completely forget it is freezing outside.
Pumpkin Muffin (Stella’s Bakery)
If you’ve ever been to the Dane County Farmer’s Market around Capitol Square, by now you must be familiar with Stella’s hot and spicy cheesebread, and if you are not familiar with it, put it on your bucket list. Even though they are by now known for their hot and spicy cheesebread, they also offer an abundance of other bakery items including muffins, danishes and cookies. Last Saturday, I tried their Pumpkin Muffin and it was phenomenal! The top of the muffin had a layer of cream cheese frosting and was sprinkled with pumpkin seeds. I often find muffins not moist enough to eat the whole bottom which is why I typically opt for just the top, but this was not the case with this muffin. I devoured the entire tasty thing! Next time you are at the Farmer’s Market, be a little adventurous and go for something aside from the cheesebread — trust me you will most definitely not be disappointed with the alternative.
To all the other pumpkin enthusiasts: Get out there, and try different pumpkin flavored treats now! Go for the basics, like pie and scones, but also try the daring, like pumpkin ravioli! There’s no end to the possibilities when it comes to pumpkin treats. The best part is there’s no need to feel guilty. Just remember — pumpkins pack a huge amount of Vitamin A!
