Vegetable
Small Sugar
S tier
Small Sugar is a named heirloom pie pumpkin—compact orange fruit with thick, sweet, fine flesh that defined New England pumpkin pie long before industrial canned puree. Strings are moderate; dry matter is high enough for custards that set well. Fruits typically weigh under three kilograms. Roast and puree for pie, butter, and bread. Superior to carving pumpkins for dessert work. Store cured fruit cool for winter baking. Seeds roast separately as a snack.
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History
Small Sugar pie pumpkin was established in New England seed and farm tradition.
Small Sugar was a standard home pie pumpkin across northern US gardens.
Heirloom catalogues kept Small Sugar while hybrids took commercial pie fields.
Bakers seeking fresh pie pumpkin still sought Small Sugar specifically.