When the leaves start changing and there’s a crisp chill in the air, it’s officially pumpkin season! I’ve gathered 20 of the coziest, most delicious pumpkin recipes that will make your home smell amazing and satisfy all your fall cravings. From sweet treats like Pumpkin S’mores Cookies to savory dishes like Pumpkin Lasagna, these easy pumpkin recipes offer something for every occasion and preference.
What I love most about cooking with pumpkin is its incredible versatility. Whether you’re using canned pumpkin puree for convenience or fresh pumpkin for a more rustic flavor, these recipes are designed to be simple enough for weeknight cooking but special enough for autumn gatherings. Let’s dive into these fall favorites that will have everyone asking for seconds!
1. Pumpkin S’mores Cookies
These Pumpkin S’mores Cookies combine the best of fall flavors with the beloved campfire treat everyone adores. Soft, chewy pumpkin cookies are studded with chocolate chunks and topped with gooey marshmallows and graham cracker pieces, creating an irresistible texture contrast. They’re perfect for after-school snacks or as a special treat to bring to fall gatherings, offering that cozy campfire feeling even when you’re indoors.
2. Pumpkin Fluff
Pumpkin Fluff is the easiest no-bake fall dessert you’ll ever make, requiring just a few minutes and a handful of ingredients. This cloud-like treat combines pumpkin puree with whipped topping and warm spices for a light, airy dessert that tastes like pumpkin pie without the effort. Serve it as a dip with graham crackers, as a filling for crepes, or simply enjoy it by the spoonful for an instant fall comfort food.
3. Pumpkin Cheesecake Hand Pies
These Pumpkin Cheesecake Hand Pies deliver all the flavors of traditional pumpkin cheesecake in adorable, portable packages. Flaky pastry cradles a creamy blend of pumpkin puree and cream cheese filling, making these little treasures perfect for lunch boxes, picnics, or on-the-go fall treats. Each bite offers the perfect balance of spiced pumpkin and tangy cheesecake flavor, wrapped in a golden, buttery crust that’s impossible to resist.
4. Pumpkin Pie
No fall recipe collection would be complete without the classic Pumpkin Pie—the quintessential Thanksgiving dessert that perfectly captures autumn’s essence. This version delivers a silky-smooth, perfectly spiced filling nestled in a flaky, buttery crust that will have everyone reaching for seconds. The recipe includes foolproof tips to prevent cracks and ensure the perfect texture every time, making it ideal even for first-time pie bakers.
5. Pumpkin Cheesecake
This Pumpkin Cheesecake combines two beloved desserts: the warm, spiced comfort of pumpkin pie and the rich, creamy decadence of cheesecake. With a buttery graham cracker crust and a velvety filling that strikes the perfect balance between tangy and sweet, this showstopper dessert is guaranteed to impress at any holiday gathering. The recipe includes simple steps to achieve a crack-free top and the ideal creamy texture that will have guests thinking it came from a bakery.
6. Pumpkin Bread
This classic Pumpkin Bread is the perfect combination of moist, tender crumb and warm fall spices that will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. The recipe produces a beautifully risen loaf with a slightly crackled top and a rich, golden-orange interior that stays fresh for days (though it rarely lasts that long!). Perfect for breakfast with coffee, as an afternoon snack, or even as a simple dessert, this versatile quick bread is one you’ll want to make again and again throughout the season.
7. Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread takes the classic fall favorite to new heights by adding rich chocolate chips that create pockets of melty goodness throughout the moist, spiced loaf. The contrast between the warm pumpkin flavor and sweet chocolate makes this bread utterly irresistible, whether served for breakfast, snack time, or dessert. This crowd-pleaser is simple to make and perfect for gifting to neighbors, teachers, or anyone who deserves a homemade autumn treat.
8. Pumpkin Sheet Cake
When you need to feed a crowd this fall, Pumpkin Sheet Cake is your answer—it’s incredibly moist, perfectly spiced, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting that complements the pumpkin flavor beautifully. The generous 9×13 format makes it perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or anytime you’re serving dessert to a group. Each bite delivers that perfect balance of tender cake and creamy frosting, making it nearly impossible to stop at just one piece.
9. Pumpkin Pie Ice Cream
This Pumpkin Pie Ice Cream captures all the flavors of the classic Thanksgiving dessert in a cool, creamy format that’s perfect for those warmer fall days or as an unexpected holiday dessert option. Rich, smooth pumpkin ice cream is swirled with real pie crust pieces and warm spices for an indulgent treat that tastes just like frozen pumpkin pie. Serve it on its own, in a cone, or as an amazing topping for warm apple crisp for the ultimate fall dessert experience.
10. Pumpkin Lasagna
Switching to the savory side, this Pumpkin Lasagna offers a creative twist on the Italian classic by incorporating sweet, earthy pumpkin puree into a rich, cheesy sauce that’s layered between pasta sheets and complemented by sage and nutmeg. This unexpected combination creates a sophisticated comfort food perfect for fall dinner parties or a special family meal. The creamy pumpkin sauce pairs wonderfully with the traditional lasagna elements, creating a memorable dish that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
11. Pumpkin Chili
Pumpkin Chili is the ultimate fall comfort food, combining the heartiness of traditional chili with the subtle sweetness and velvety texture that pumpkin brings to the dish. The pumpkin puree blends seamlessly with tomatoes, beans, and warming spices, creating depth without overwhelming the classic chili flavor. Perfect for game days, after trick-or-treating, or anytime the temperature drops, this one-pot meal is both satisfying and nutritious—a clever way to incorporate more vegetables into a family favorite.
12. Creamy Pumpkin Soup
This Creamy Pumpkin Soup is like autumn in a bowl—silky smooth, richly flavored, and warming from the inside out. The natural sweetness of pumpkin is enhanced with caramelized onions and balanced with savory herbs and a touch of cream for the perfect texture. Ready in just 30 minutes, this soup makes an elegant starter for holiday meals or a satisfying lunch paired with crusty bread. For a beautiful presentation, top with toasted pumpkin seeds, a swirl of cream, and fresh herbs.
13. Creamy Pumpkin Pasta
Creamy Pumpkin Pasta transforms weeknight dinner into something special with its luxurious sauce that comes together in less time than it takes to boil the pasta. The velvety pumpkin sauce, enriched with garlic, sage, and a touch of cream, coats each pasta strand perfectly, creating a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort. This vegetarian-friendly meal feels indulgent but sneaks in valuable nutrients from the pumpkin, making it a win-win for both taste and health.
14. Pumpkin Pancakes
Start your fall mornings right with these fluffy, spiced Pumpkin Pancakes that bring seasonal flavor to the breakfast table. Light and tender with warm notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, these pancakes get their beautiful orange hue and moisture from real pumpkin puree. They’re perfect for lazy weekend breakfasts or special holiday mornings, especially when topped with maple syrup, a pat of butter, and perhaps a sprinkle of toasted pecans for extra fall flair.
15. Roasted Pumpkin Seeds
Don’t throw away those pumpkin seeds after carving! This simple recipe transforms those slimy seeds into crunchy, addictive snacks that are both nutritious and delicious. With options for sweet, savory, or spicy seasonings, these Roasted Pumpkin Seeds can be customized to please any palate. They’re packed with nutrients like magnesium, zinc, and protein, making them a guilt-free snack perfect for munching during movie nights or adding to salads for extra crunch.
16. Spiced Pumpkin Latte
Save money and customize your favorite fall drink with this homemade Spiced Pumpkin Latte that rivals any coffee shop version. Made with real pumpkin puree (not just syrup), this warming beverage combines espresso or strong coffee with perfectly spiced pumpkin, milk, and a touch of sweetness for a morning treat or afternoon pick-me-up. The best part? You control the ingredients, so you can adjust the sweetness, spice level, and milk type to create your perfect cup.
17. Pumpkin Pie Cake (Pumpkin Dump Cake)
This Pumpkin Pie Cake (also known as Pumpkin Dump Cake) offers the perfect compromise for those who can’t decide between pumpkin pie and cake. With a creamy pumpkin pie layer on the bottom and a buttery, crumbly cake topping, this hybrid dessert delivers the best of both worlds with minimal effort. It’s perfect for potlucks and holiday gatherings, especially when you need a dessert that’s easier than pie but just as impressive and delicious.
18. Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes
These adorable Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes deliver all the flavor of a full-sized cheesecake in perfect individual portions that are ideal for entertaining. The buttery graham cracker crusts hold creamy, spiced pumpkin cheesecake filling that bakes up perfectly every time without cracks or fuss. Their size makes them not only cute but practical—they chill faster than a large cheesecake, can be made ahead, and let guests enjoy a complete dessert without the commitment of a large slice.
19. Paleo Pumpkin Muffins
These Paleo Pumpkin Muffins prove that dietary restrictions don’t mean sacrificing flavor or texture. Made with almond and coconut flours instead of traditional wheat, these grain-free, refined sugar-free muffins are moist, tender, and perfectly spiced with warm fall flavors. They’re an excellent option for breakfast on-the-go, post-workout fuel, or an afternoon snack that won’t lead to an energy crash. Even those who don’t follow a paleo diet will love these nutrient-dense treats.
20. Soft Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies
These Soft Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies combine the hearty texture of oats with the tender softness that pumpkin brings to baked goods, creating a cookie that’s both satisfying and comforting. Perfectly spiced and studded with optional mix-ins like dried cranberries, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts, these cookies stay soft for days (if they last that long!). They’re substantial enough for breakfast but sweet enough for dessert, making them a versatile treat to enjoy throughout the fall season.
Embrace Pumpkin Season With These Delicious Recipes
There you have it—20 of the most delicious pumpkin recipes to brighten your fall days and make your home smell absolutely amazing! From breakfast to dessert and everything in between, these recipes showcase just how versatile pumpkin can be in both sweet and savory applications.
What I love most about this collection is that there’s truly something for everyone, whether you’re a baking novice or an experienced cook. Many of these recipes can be prepared ahead of time, making them perfect for busy weeknights or holiday meal prep when time is at a premium.
I’d love to hear which recipe you’re most excited to try! Drop a comment below sharing your favorite pumpkin dish or if you’ve already tried one from this list. And don’t forget to bookmark this page for easy reference throughout pumpkin season—these recipes are too good to make just once!
Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Recipes
Can I substitute canned pumpkin with homemade pumpkin puree?
Yes, you can absolutely use homemade pumpkin puree in any of these recipes! Just make sure it’s well-drained and has a similar consistency to canned pumpkin. Homemade puree tends to be a bit waterier, so you might want to strain it through a cheesecloth for a few hours before using it in baking recipes.
What’s the difference between pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie filling?
Pumpkin puree is 100% cooked, mashed pumpkin with no additional ingredients. Pumpkin pie filling, on the other hand, is pre-sweetened and seasoned with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. For the recipes above, you’ll want to use pure pumpkin puree unless specified otherwise, as this gives you control over the sweetness and spice levels.
How do I store leftover pumpkin puree?
If you have leftover pumpkin puree from a can, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5-7 days. You can also freeze it in ice cube trays or small containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before using in your recipes.
What spices pair best with pumpkin?
The classic pumpkin spice blend includes cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and sometimes allspice. For savory dishes, pumpkin pairs beautifully with sage, thyme, rosemary, and a touch of cayenne for heat. Don’t be afraid to experiment with cardamom, black pepper, or even a pinch of curry powder for unique flavor profiles!
