Pumpkin season is upon us, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with these 21 mouthwatering recipes. From savory dishes to sweet treats, these pumpkin-inspired creations will satisfy all your autumn cravings and make the most of this versatile squash.
1. Creamy Pumpkin Soup
This velvety smooth pumpkin soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly autumn evenings. Infused with warm spices and a touch of cream, it’s a bowl of pure fall bliss.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups pumpkin puree
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pumpkin seeds for garnish
Method:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until soft.
- Add pumpkin puree, vegetable broth, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Simmer for 15 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Blend the soup until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with pumpkin seeds.
2. Pumpkin Spice Latte
Skip the coffee shop and make your own pumpkin spice latte at home with this easy recipe. It’s the perfect way to start a crisp autumn morning or to cozy up with on a lazy afternoon.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups milk
- 2 tbsp pumpkin puree
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee
- Whipped cream for topping
Method:
- In a saucepan, whisk together milk, pumpkin puree, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice. Heat until hot but not boiling.
- Remove from heat and stir in coffee.
- Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream.
3. Pumpkin Pancakes
Transform your breakfast routine with these fluffy pumpkin pancakes. They’re packed with fall flavor and make for a delightful weekend brunch or a special weekday treat.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/4 cups milk
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 eggs
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Method:
- In a bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk milk, pumpkin puree, eggs, and melted butter.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
- Cook pancakes on a griddle until golden brown on both sides.
4. Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Don’t throw away those pumpkin seeds! This simple recipe turns them into a crunchy, addictive snack that’s perfect for munching on during movie nights or as a healthy on-the-go treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups pumpkin seeds
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
Method:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Toss pumpkin seeds with olive oil and seasonings.
- Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Pumpkin Bread
This moist and flavorful pumpkin bread is a fall baking staple. It fills your home with the most delicious aroma and makes for a perfect breakfast, snack, or dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ginger
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/3 cup water
Method:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking soda, salt, and spices.
- In another bowl, cream butter and sugar. Beat in eggs, pumpkin puree, and water.
- Stir dry ingredients into wet mixture until just blended.
- Pour into loaf pan and bake for 60-65 minutes.
6. Pumpkin Risotto
Elevate your dinner game with this creamy pumpkin risotto. It’s a sophisticated dish that’s surprisingly easy to make and sure to impress your guests or family.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 cups Arborio rice
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
- In a saucepan, heat broth and keep warm.
- In a large pan, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft.
- Add rice and stir until coated with oil. Add wine and cook until absorbed.
- Add broth 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly until absorbed before adding more.
- Stir in pumpkin puree, Parmesan, and butter. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Pumpkin Pie Smoothie
Enjoy the flavors of pumpkin pie in a healthier, drinkable form with this creamy smoothie. It’s a great way to start your day or to satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 banana
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- Ice cubes
Method:
- Blend all ingredients until smooth.
- Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
8. Pumpkin Curry
This warming pumpkin curry is a delightful fusion of autumn flavors and aromatic spices. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for those cooler evenings.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 2 tbsp red curry paste
- 4 cups diced pumpkin
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- Salt to taste
- Cilantro for garnish
Method:
- Heat coconut oil in a large pot. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until fragrant.
- Add curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
- Add pumpkin, coconut milk, and broth. Simmer until pumpkin is tender.
- Stir in lime juice and salt. Garnish with cilantro before serving.
9. Pumpkin Cheesecake
This pumpkin cheesecake is the ultimate fall dessert, combining the rich creaminess of cheesecake with the warm spices of pumpkin pie. It’s a showstopper that’s worth every calorie.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 3 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 3 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
Method:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Mix graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and press into a 9-inch springform pan.
- Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add pumpkin, eggs, vanilla, and spices.
- Pour mixture over crust and bake for 60-70 minutes.
- Cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours.
10. Pumpkin Hummus
Give your appetizer spread a fall makeover with this creamy pumpkin hummus. It’s a unique twist on the classic dip that pairs perfectly with pita chips or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 1 (15 oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- Salt to taste
- Pumpkin seeds and paprika for garnish
Method:
- In a food processor, blend chickpeas, pumpkin puree, tahini, olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and cumin until smooth.
- Season with salt to taste.
- Transfer to a serving bowl and garnish with pumpkin seeds and a sprinkle of paprika.
11. Pumpkin Alfredo Pasta
This creamy pumpkin Alfredo sauce brings a delightful autumn twist to a classic pasta dish. It’s rich, comforting, and perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fettuccine pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh sage leaves for garnish
Method:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions.
- In a large skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add pumpkin puree, heavy cream, Parmesan, and nutmeg. Simmer until thickened.
- Toss sauce with cooked pasta. Season with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh sage leaves before serving.
12. Pumpkin Chili
This hearty pumpkin chili is a perfect meal for chilly autumn evenings. The addition of pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness and velvety texture to this comforting dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sour cream and shredded cheese for topping
Method:
- In a large pot, brown ground beef with onion and garlic.
- Add remaining ingredients except toppings. Simmer for 30 minutes.
- Serve hot with sour cream and shredded cheese on top.
13. Pumpkin Spice Cookies
These soft, chewy pumpkin spice cookies are bursting with fall flavors. They’re perfect for an afternoon treat or as a festive addition to your holiday cookie platter.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Method:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix dry ingredients in a bowl.
- In another bowl, cream butter and sugar. Add pumpkin, egg, and vanilla.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients.
- Drop spoonfuls onto baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes.
14. Pumpkin Butter
Smooth, spreadable, and packed with fall spices, this pumpkin butter is delicious on toast, stirred into yogurt, or used as a filling for baked goods.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups pumpkin puree
- 3/4 cup apple juice
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp cloves
- 1/4 tsp ginger
Method:
- Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 5-6 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Let cool and transfer to jars. Store in the refrigerator.
15. Pumpkin Ravioli
These delicate pumpkin ravioli are a gourmet treat that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. They’re perfect for a special autumn dinner party.
Ingredients:
- 1 package wonton wrappers
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup butter
- 8-10 sage leaves
- Additional Parmesan for serving
Method:
- Mix pumpkin, ricotta, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Place a spoonful of mixture on each wonton wrapper. Seal edges with water.
- Cook ravioli in boiling water for 2-3 minutes.
- Meanwhile, brown butter with sage leaves in a pan.
- Toss cooked ravioli with sage butter and serve with extra Parmesan.
16. Pumpkin Pie Martini
This pumpkin pie martini is a grown-up way to enjoy the flavors of fall. It’s creamy, indulgent, and perfect for holiday parties or as an after-dinner treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz vanilla vodka
- 2 oz Baileys Irish Cream
- 2 tbsp pumpkin puree
- 1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- Ice
- Graham cracker crumbs for rim
- Whipped cream for topping
Method:
- Rim martini glass with graham cracker crumbs.
- Shake vodka, Baileys, pumpkin puree, and spice with ice.
- Strain into prepared glass and top with whipped cream.
17. Pumpkin Granola
Start your day with this crunchy, nutty pumpkin granola. It’s a healthier breakfast option that doesn’t skimp on fall flavors.
Ingredients:
- 3 cups rolled oats
- 1 cup chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, or walnuts)
- 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/3 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
Method:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Mix all ingredients in a large bowl.
- Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Let cool completely before storing.
18. Pumpkin Quesadillas
These savory pumpkin quesadillas offer a unique twist on a Mexican favorite. They’re quick to make and perfect for a casual lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
- 4 large tortillas
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Method:
- Mix pumpkin, cheese, beans, cilantro, chili powder, and salt.
- Spread mixture on half of each tortilla and fold.
- Heat oil in a skillet and cook quesadillas until golden and crispy.
19. Pumpkin Spice Latte Popsicles
These frozen pumpkin spice latte popsicles are a refreshing way to enjoy fall flavors on warmer autumn days. They’re a fun twist on the classic coffee shop favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Method:
- Blend all ingredients until smooth.
- Pour into popsicle molds and freeze for at least 4 hours.
20. Pumpkin Mac and Cheese
This pumpkin mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food with a fall twist. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with subtle pumpkin flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
- Cook macaroni according to package instructions.
- In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly.
- Add pumpkin puree, cheeses, and nutmeg. Stir until smooth.
- Toss sauce with cooked macaroni. Season with salt and pepper.
21. Pumpkin Spice Energy Balls
These no-bake pumpkin spice energy balls are a healthy snack that tastes like a treat. They’re perfect for on-the-go energy or as a post-workout pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts or chocolate chips
Method:
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
- Refrigerate mixture for 30 minutes.
- Roll into small balls and store in the refrigerator.