10 Ways to Use Pumpkin Guts After You Carve Your Jack-o’-Lantern

4. Freeze Pumpkin Guts in Ice Cube Trays

To reduce food waste, puree your pumpkin guts and freeze them in ice cube trays for later use. « Pumpkin is a superfood for dogs, » says Lauren Click, founder of Let’s Go Compost.
How to use it:

• Defrost a cube and add it to your dog’s meal, or toss it into a homemade dog treat recipe.

5. Compost the Guts

Instead of sending your pumpkin guts to the landfill, compost them! They’re a great source of nutrients for your garden. « Cut up the pumpkin first to speed up decomposition, » advises Click.
How to use it:

• Add the pumpkin scraps to your compost bin or use curbside compost services to help reduce food waste.

6. Flavor Your Broth

Add pumpkin guts to a pot with other vegetable scraps to make a delicious and flavorful broth. « Let it simmer for hours, or use an Instant Pot for a quicker result, » suggests Elizabeth, homesteader at Eco Friendly Homestead.
How to make it:

• Toss the guts in with onions, garlic skins, carrot tops, and other scraps. Simmer for 6 hours (or 1 hour in an Instant Pot), then strain and use the broth in soups or risotto.

7. Feed the Birds or Other Animals

Birds, chickens, and even other outdoor animals like squirrels love pumpkin guts. « Crows and ravens are especially fond of them, » says Elizabeth.
How to use it:

• Spread the guts outside or place them in a bird feeder to attract local wildlife. Chickens also enjoy pumpkin, making it a healthy treat for backyard flocks.

8. Make Pumpkin Hummus

Add a fall twist to your favorite hummus recipe by blending pumpkin guts into the mix. According to food blogger Brian Theis, it’s a great way to enjoy a savory snack with seasonal flair.
How to make it:

• Blend pumpkin guts into your hummus, then garnish with roasted pumpkin seeds for an extra crunch.

9. Turn the Guts Into Something Sweet

The naturally sweet and spicy flavor of pumpkin makes it perfect for desserts. Executive chef Kyle Swarzendruber suggests using the guts for baked goods like pumpkin bread, cookies, or even ice cream.
How to make it:

• Use the pumpkin puree as a base for your favorite fall desserts, such as pumpkin muffins, cookies, or creamy ice cream.

10. Add Them to Smoothies

Pumpkin guts are a great way to add natural sweetness and fiber to your smoothies. « Blend them until smooth to avoid any stringy texture, » says Nilufer Danis, garden designer.
How to make it:

• Add pumpkin puree to a smoothie with other fall ingredients like cinnamon, apples, and bananas for a nutritious, seasonal drink.

Final Thoughts

Don’t let those pumpkin guts go to waste! Whether you’re nourishing your skin, making a delicious meal, or helping your garden grow, there are plenty of creative ways to use those leftovers. Happy Halloween, and here’s to a zero-waste, pumpkin-filled season! 🎃

This revised version keeps it organized and focused, ensuring the tips are easy to follow while maintaining the friendly and helpful tone.