Pumpkin Season’s Favorites Across the U.S.

As autumn settles in across the country, bringing cooler weather and thoughts of cozy attire, the beloved pumpkin flavor returns to the forefront.

There’s often a yearly discussion about whether pumpkin flavor is losing its charm or simply hitting a plateau. Mike Costio, a food trends expert at Datasential in Chicago, believes that pumpkin, along with its spice, remains a staple much like peppermint is in the winter. “The demand for pumpkin everything is nearly universal; however, people’s preferences vary based on their location in the U.S.,” he noted.

Seasonal Delights from Costco

According to a recent analysis of Google Trends concerning various pumpkin-flavored foods, from bread to soups, preferences differ from state to state. Costco shoppers are enthused about seasonal pies that weigh in at nearly 4 pounds, and they’re priced under $6, making them a hot commodity for fall.

The analysis revealed that over 30 pumpkin-based items were studied, showing a clear divergence in taste by region. For instance, in the Northeast, pumpkin muffins and cookies are particularly popular.

Interestingly, pumpkin bread maintains its status as the top searched pumpkin product in 20 states, especially found in the South and Midwest regions including Alabama, Arkansas, and Colorado.

A Bit of History

Pumpkin bread recipes have a long history, dating back to the 1830s. Experts suggest that early American settlers adapted their recipes from European spiced breads, using the versatile pumpkin that Indigenous tribes cherished.

On-the-go pumpkin muffins are a favorite in 11 states, including Massachusetts and North Carolina, while pumpkin cookies attract interest in places like Arizona and Illinois. Some trends seem to reflect a shift towards more home cooking, possibly prompted by rising prices and the impact of the pandemic.

The cultural shift to in-home cafes has also sparked increased interest in homemade treats like breads and muffins, as many continue to explore their culinary skills on social media.

Variations Across Regions

In contrast, some states show a preference for savory pumpkin dishes. Florida, Texas, New York, and Michigan have shown a liking for pumpkin soup, which in Texas sometimes includes a zesty citrus twist. Meanwhile, in warmer states like Hawaii and Louisiana, the nutritious pumpkin seed has become a more popular search than baked goods.

There’s been a noticeable growth in interest for pumpkin-flavored products recently. “It has become a natural opportunity since consumers are looking for real pumpkin, not just its flavor. Real pumpkin stands out on its own,” commented Kostyo.

Pumpkin pie only topped search queries in North Dakota and Wyoming, while the famous pumpkin spice latte was the preferred choice in South Dakota.

Starbucks noted that their pumpkin spice latte sales hit record levels this year, suggesting that the pumpkin season’s appeal isn’t fading anytime soon. People likely aren’t searching for “pumpkin spice latte” because they already know where to find it, Kostyo explained.

For those in warmer climates, iced lattes and similar cold beverages are a way to embrace the season. Kostyo also pointed out that apple options are trending, as apples complement cold drinks nicely.