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December 2025 Food Festival: Pumpkin Seeds

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Each month, our Food Festival series celebrates a single seasonal ingredient through a chef-driven recipe, creative tips, and serving inspiration. In December, we turn to pumpkin seeds—nutty, versatile, and rich in nutrients. A beloved snack in many cultures, pumpkin seeds shine in both savory and sweet dishes, adding crunch and depth to holiday spreads.

In honor of December pumpkin seeds, we’re spotlighting a festive favorite: Sage Pumpkin Seed Brittle. Sweet, spiced, and herbaceous, this brittle combines caramelized sugar with toasted seeds, cayenne pepper for gentle heat, and fresh sage for a seasonal twist. Perfect as a holiday treat, it makes a great edible gift or snack for gatherings.

Want more seasonal ideas? Explore the full Food Festival series here.

Ingredient Spotlight:

Pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, are celebrated worldwide for their rich, nutty flavor and dense nutritional profile. Packed with protein, healthy fats, magnesium, and zinc, they’re as nourishing as they are delicious. From trail mixes to sauces and baked goods, pumpkin seeds are endlessly adaptable, making them a pantry staple during the winter months.

Artwork by Danica Andler, July 2025

Recipe: Sage Pumpkin Seed Brittle

Ingredients

  • 120 g pumpkin seeds, toasted

  • 200 g sugar

  • 170 g light corn syrup

  • 120 g water

  • 2.5 g baking soda

  • 1.6 g salt

  • 3 g fresh sage, finely chopped

  • 3 g cayenne pepper

  • Vegan butter, as needed

  • Cooking spray, for parchment

Method

  • Toast pumpkin seeds and set aside.

  • In a thick-bottomed pot, combine sugar, light corn syrup, salt, baking soda, and water.

  • Cook over medium heat, stirring until mixture turns golden brown.

  • Add chopped sage and cayenne pepper, stirring to combine.

  • Stir in vegan butter.

  • Quickly pour mixture onto a parchment-lined sheet tray sprayed with cooking spray.

  • Spread evenly and let cool completely. Break into brittle pieces before serving.

Pro Tips from Our Chefs

  • For extra flavor, sprinkle flaky sea salt over the brittle before it sets.

  • Add a handful of dark chocolate chips while spreading for a sweet-savory twist.

  • Store brittle in an airtight container with parchment between layers to prevent sticking.

  • Package in cellophane bags or tins for a thoughtful, homemade holiday gift.

How to Use It: Serving Suggestions

  • Break into shards and serve alongside after-dinner coffee or tea.

  • Crush into pieces and sprinkle over ice cream or yogurt parfaits.

  • Pair with cheese boards as a crunchy, slightly spicy accent.

  • Use as a garnish for holiday cakes or brownies.

From Our Farm to Your Table: Meet Katchkie Farm and Our CSA

The peppers in this month’s recipe—and many of the ingredients we spotlight—come straight from Katchkie Farm, our organic farm in Kinderhook, NY. It’s where we grow with intention: focusing on flavor, sustainability, and connection to the land.

Through our CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program, you can enjoy the very best of the season each week—from just-picked produce to specialty pantry items and surprises from our kitchen.

Want a deeper connection to your food? Learn more about our CSA and Katchkie Farm →

Keep Cooking with Us

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