Rich in potassium, a nutrient that helps maintain blood pressure and kidney function, these gourds have a high fiber content, which has been linked to a lower risk of heart disease. Take advantage of the autumn gourd in these pumpkin pies, custard, and muffin recipes.

Maple syrup heightens the sweetness of the pumpkin in this dessert recipe. It calls for canned pumpkin puree and so can be made year-round, but it pairs well with fall dishes and fresh autumn produce.

The filling of this traditional Thanksgiving pumpkin pie is lighter than some, being made with evaporated milk rather than cream.

Pumpkin Custard is essentially crustless pumpkin pie made with nonfat evaporated milk.

Yogurt makes these muffins, a fall breakfast favorite, especially light and tender.

These unforgettable, light fall desserts are baked in diminutive Jack-Be-Little pumpkins.