Pumpkin fondue bowl

Cut the top off the pumpkin, then scoop out and trim the flesh. Leave a little behind to retain the shape of the pumpkin. Reserve the flesh.

If you want to serve the fondue in the pumpkin shell, heat the oven to 180C/160C/gas 4. Bake it for 1 hr 30 mins until softened but not collapsing. Alternatively, use a serving bowl (we've used a bowl from Morrisons Nutmeg range). Tip the pumpkin flesh into a casserole dish with the garlic and cream, bring to a simmer and cook with the lid on until tender, about 10 mins. Take off the heat and mash thoroughly, or use a hand blender if your pumpkin is quite fibrous.

Mix the grated cheeses with the cornflour until completely coated. Add the cheese to the pumpkin in handfuls, stirring until melted. Put the mixture back over a low heat and stir gently to reheat if needed.

Pour the fondue mix into the pumpkin shell (supported in a bowl to keep sturdy) or a serving dish. Mix in a crack of black pepper. Serve the accompaniments on a board alongside it. Give everyone a fork to dip with and a spoon for scooping out the fondue.