Pumpkin desserts ride wave of popularity

While pumpkin isn’t as ubiquitous as French fries or bacon on American restaurant menus, pumpkin-flavored foods are nonetheless grabbing a bigger share of the consumer consciousness. According to Nielsen data, the pumpkin flavor trend is no flash in a pie pan, either. Last year, pumpkin-flavored products reached $361 million in sales, with 37 percent of American consumers buying something in the category. In fact, since 2011, pumpkin products have grown 79 percent.

If you’re thinking about adding seasonal pumpkin desserts to your menu, here are three recipe ideas that start with fresh pumpkin.