How can you tell difference between a "cow field Pumpkin" and a pumpkin you can use for making pumpkin pies?

Question

I bought three pumpkins for halloween and do not know if they are field pumpkins for animals or pumpkins I could use to make pumpkins pies? Can anyone tell me the difference or what to look for?

Answer 1

I was told recently by an old time farmer that the pumpkins for halloween are not good in pumpkin pies. My opinion--I use a squash, green and white striped with a long neck. My grandmother, my mother and now myself all used this same I do not know the difference in what your are asking.

Answer 2

There is no difference, they're are however some sweeter varieties for pie making. If you're just going to the pumpkin patch for them smaller pumpkins are a lot easier to work with but they're all basically the same..

Answer 3

Size and specific species of pumpkins are the two differences. Pie pumpkins are usually 5 pounds or less and are are labeled as such ("Sweet Pie" or "Sugar Pie" are common types of food pumpkins.)

Field or jack o'lantern pumpkins are much larger and usually not labeled for food use. Their flesh tend to be coarser and watery when cooked.

See this article:

http://www.tonytantillo.com/vegetables/pumpkin.html

Answer 4

Yes, that was right pie(sweet or sugar) pumpkins are the smaller pumpkins and they are best for pies and such but the carving pumpkins can also be used . The carving pumpkins are coarser and stringier.

Answer 5

In appearance, no. But generally when you buy the seeds, the envelope or dealer knows what kind is best for what. I think you can find out online. Also last weeks' USA Weekend edition.