Those cute little pumpkins available at grocery stores and farm stands this time of year aren’t just for decoration; they also make a delicious appetizer or side dish.  If you are a fan of pumpkin pie then you will certainly love these little treats. 

For this recipe you will need:

• 6 mini pumpkins
• 6 teaspoons Victoria Taylor’s Pie Spices
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 6 teaspoons maple syrup
• salt and pepper to taste

Preheat the oven to 400°. Using a grapefruit spoon or a paring knife, cut a ring around each pumpkin stem to form a lid; remove the lids and set aside. With a small spoon, scrape out the seeds and any membranes. Drop a teaspoon of Pie Spices into each pumpkin.  Put the top on and shake the pumpkin to distribute the spices.  Add 1/2 tablespoon of the butter and 1 teaspoon of the maple syrup to each pumpkin and season with salt and pepper. Replace the lids and place the pumpkins in a baking dish.  Add 1/2 inch of water to the baking dish to keep the pumpkins moist. Roast the pumpkins for 30-45 minutes, or until tender. Serve hot. Best,             Victoria