LOCAL GUIDE TO THE BEST OF EVERYTHING PUMPKIN

It’s one of the most anticipated delights of fall:  pumpkin-flavored everything!  Muffins and cheesecakes fly off menus, while homes fill up with the smell of pumpkin pie.   In an effort to help pumpkin lovers maximize the season, here’s the Great Pumpkin Tour with things they don’t want to miss.

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Pumpkin Muffins -  The homemade, generously-sized muffins at Cody's on 4th are always moist and have just the right amount of pumpkin spice. (111 E. 4th Ave., downtown Mount Dora)

Pumpkin Cupcakes - Iced with cream cheese frosting, these treats have been favorites for years at Cupcake Delights.  Get there early before they sell out. (122 E. 4th Ave., downtown Mount Dora)

Homemade pumpkin ice cream and pumpkin cheesecakes - Small bites from Le Petit Sweet never disappoint and their pumpkin treats are no exception.  Careful, these are deliciously addictive. (110 W. 5th Ave., downtown Mount Dora)

Pumpkin Spice Latte - These drinks are anxiously awaited all year as a rite of passage into Fall.  You'll find tasty variations at Cody's on 4th, The Village Coffee Pot, Cupcake Delights and Le Petit Sweet.  (All in downtown Mount Dora)

Pumpkin Beer - This popular seasonal beverage comes in lagers, porters, stouts and ales, just to name a few.  Maggie's Attic has too many varieties to count, so beer lovers can rejoice.  (237 W. 4th Ave., downtown Mount Dora)

Pumpkin Crack donuts -  If you've never been to Joy Donuts, here is another reason you gotta go.   You'll find their pink food trailer on the corner of U.S. 441 and Wolf Branch Road on weekends.

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Spicy Pumpkin Bisque - The homemade recipe is absolute perfection at Cody's on 4th.  Grab a bowl on a day with a chill because it has just a little kick.  Be sure to call ahead because it’s a special.  (111 E. 4th Ave., downtown Mount Dora)  

Maple Pumpkin Butter  - Who knew toast could be so good?  Julianne's Coastal Cottage sells this heaven-in-a-jar which is to die for when generously applied to toast or ice cream. (135 E. 4th Ave., downtown Mount Dora)

When you just can't sneak out for a treat or you're trying to behave, here's some ways you can still enjoy a little pumpkin spice:

Pumpkin Caramel Melts -  When eating pumpkin muffins just isn't enough,  these little gems from Home & Garden Treasures make your home smell like you just whipped up a batch from scratch. (430 N. Donnelly St., downtown Mount Dora)

Pumpkin Soap -  This handmade soap at Amy Sellers Gallery smells so good you may just take a bite.  (411 N. Donnelly St., downtown Mount Dora)

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