34 Incredibly Cozy Canned Pumpkin Recipes

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

The addition of quick-cooking oats gives these pumpkin chocolate chip cookies a nice texture, while semisweet chocolate chips add a rich sweetness. They bake up quickly, making them a great option for a quick treat or to share with friends.

“I’m one of the cooking project leaders for my daughter’s 4-H club, where these soft, delicious cookies were a huge hit with the kids.” —Recipe contributor Marietta Slater, Augusta, Kansas

JULIA HARTBECK FOR TASTE OF HOME

Pumpkin Mousse

This pumpkin mousse comes together in just minutes and is layered with sweet and crunchy gingersnaps. It’s a creamy, spiced dessert made with whipped topping and pumpkin pie spice for that classic seasonal flavor. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of extra gingersnaps for a bit of texture.

“If you’ve had your fill of pumpkin pie, this cool and creamy pumpkin mousse is perfect for you. Its light and fluffy texture won’t make you feel “stuffed” after your favorite turkey dinner.” —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen

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Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Pumpkin bread pudding is rich and warmly spiced, featuring tender cubes of whole wheat bread soaked in a sweet pumpkin custard. A sprinkle of pecans and dates adds a bit of crunch and sweetness to each bite.

“Old-fashioned but never out of style, I got this favorite pumpkin recipe from an elderly aunt.” —Recipe contributor Lois Fetting, Nelson, Wisconsin

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Pumpkin Zucchini Bread

Sneak veggies into dessert with this pumpkin zucchini bread. The combination of warm spices, pumpkin and zucchini creates a moist and tender crumb, while walnuts add a welcome crunch.

“Everyone in Spokane has zucchini in summer. The people who grow it have enough for all of their friends! This is one of many ways I like to use it.” —Recipe contributor Pat Thompson, Spokane, Washington

DAN ROBERTS FOR TASTE OF HOME

Pumpkin Chili

This pumpkin chili adds a hint of fall flavors to classic chili with canned pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice. The richness of the beef and beans blends with the subtle sweetness of the pumpkin for a hearty bowl that’s ideal for gatherings. Top with crunchy corn chips and sharp cheddar for extra texture and flavor.

“This unique chili freezes well…but it still doesn’t last around our farmhouse very long, especially when my five children and 13 grandchildren are around! They often are—we are a very close-knit family.” —Recipe contributor Betty Butler, Greencastle, Indiana

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Magic Pumpkin Buckle

Buckles are different from cobblers and crisps in that they are typically more cakey. The warm spices and sugars create layers of flavor, while a sweet topping gives it a lovely caramelized finish. It’s a great dessert for pumpkin-lovers looking for something beyond traditional pumpkin pie.

“Probably my family’s favorite pumpkin dessert, this is something I’ve been making since our two daughters—now 23 and 18—were small. The crust mixture, which is actually poured in first, rises to the top during baking to form a rich topping. So you don’t get a soggy bottom crust like you do with a pie.” —Recipe contributor Darlene Brenden, Salem, Oregon

Pumpkin Cheese Ball Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Cheese Ball

Cream cheese, pumpkin and sharp cheddar come together with a bit of sweetness from pineapple and a savory kick from dried beef. Shaped to resemble a pumpkin, it’s a festive dish to serve with a crudite platter.

“No one will guess this make-ahead spread contains pumpkin. The subtle ingredient lends harvest color and extra nutrition.” —Recipe contributor Linnea Rein, Topeka, Kansas

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars Recipe photo by Jena Carlin for Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

These pumpkin cheesecake bars are a creamy, spiced treat with a buttery pecan crust and crumbly topping. The smooth pumpkin cheesecake layer pairs well with the warmth of cinnamon and allspice. The bars are easy to slice and serve, and storing them in the fridge makes them a great make-ahead option for gatherings.

“This recipe was extremely popular at the annual Christmas party sponsored by our homemakers club. The bars are a terrific dessert for fall.” —Recipe contributor Agnes Jasa, Malabar, Florida

Contest-Winning Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread

This contest-winning pumpkin chocolate chip bread is a moist, tender loaf with just the right amount of sweetness. The recipe makes two loaves, so share one with a friend or stash an extra in the freezer. There’s plenty to go around!

“A touch of cinnamon helps blend the flavors in this tender pumpkin chocolate chip bread. And since the recipe makes two loaves, you can send one to a bake sale and keep one at home for your family to enjoy.” —Recipe contributor Lora Stanley, Bennington, Kansas

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Cream-Filled Pumpkin Cupcakes

Stuffed cupcakes are so much more fun than frosted ones! Top them with the cake center and a clove to create a cute mini pumpkin on each cupcake.

“Here’s a deliciously different use for pumpkin. Bursting with flavor and plenty of eye-catching appeal, these sweet and spicy filled cupcakes are bound to dazzle your family.” —Recipe contributor Ali Johnson, Petersburg, Pennsylvania

Pumpkin Oatmeal Muffins Recipe photo by Laura Scherb for Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Oatmeal Muffins

These pumpkin oatmeal muffins are a wholesome and tasty option for breakfast or a snack. The oats and raisins add texture and natural sweetness, while the pumpkin pie spice gives them a warm, seasonal flavor. Topped with a crumbly brown sugar topping, these muffins are best served warm.

“It isn’t considered Thanksgiving or Christmas in my house until these are on the table! Enjoy the flavors of pumpkin pie in easy-to-eat muffin form.” —Recipe contributor Carol Hale, Sarver, Pennsylvania

Pumpkin Roll Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Roll

Rolled cakes make beautiful desserts. This one features a light and airy pumpkin sponge cake wrapped around a cream cheese filling. Make it ahead, and freeze it for easy serving when you need it. Dust it with confectioners’ sugar for a pretty presentation.

“Keep this cake roll in the freezer for a quick dessert for family or unexpected guests, to take to a gathering, or to give as a yummy gift.” —Recipe contributor Erica Berchtold, Freeport, Illinois

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Chunky Apple Pumpkin Bread

This chunky apple pumpkin bread brings together the flavors of autumn with tender pieces of tart apple (the best apples for baking) and a warm blend of spices. The walnuts add a contrasting crunch to the moist, pumpkin-infused bread.

“This moist quick bread combines both apples and pumpkin, making it a must in autumn. Every slice is chock-full of nuts and spices.” —Recipe contributor Lyletta Searle, Morgan, Utah

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Pumpkin Scones

The buttery dough in these pumpkin scones bakes up golden brown and flaky. Drizzle with a simple pumpkin spice glaze, and enjoy them warm for breakfast or an afternoon treat.

“After trying a pumpkin scone at a coffeehouse, I was inspired to look for a recipe to try at home. The glaze nicely complements the pumpkin flavor.” —Recipe contributor Amy McCavour, Gresham, Oregon

Homemade Pumpkin Ice Cream Recipe photo by Laura Scherb for Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Ice Cream Recipe

This homemade pumpkin ice cream is rich, creamy and infused with cinnamon, ginger and cloves. The smooth pumpkin blends seamlessly with the sweetness of brown sugar. Play around with light or dark brown sugar to find a taste you like.

“Folks who favor the flavor of pumpkin really need to try this spiced ice cream from our Test Kitchen. But be prepared to make more!” —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen

Pumpkin Pie Cake Recipe photo by Eric Kleinberg for Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Pie Cake

Pumpkin pie cake is a brilliant twist on workaday boxed yellow cake mix with the flavors of pumpkin pie baked right into the layers. The moist cake is spiced with cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg, then topped with a creamy cinnamon-frosting and crunchy walnuts for extra texture.

“No one will guess this stunning dessert with yummy cinnamon frosting started with a mix. It’s a perfect treat year-round.” —Recipe contributor Linda Murray, Allenstown, New Hampshire

Pumpkin Spice Latte Recipe photo by Laura Scherb for Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Spice Latte

Blend steamed milk with pumpkin, vanilla and warm spices, then combine it with hot espresso. Top the latte with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice or nutmeg for a coffee-shop-style finish.

“I can’t wait for fall to arrive so my favorite coffee shops will bring back pumpkin lattes. The rest of the year, I have to make my own version. With the right amount of spice, it tastes just like the popular version found at gourmet coffee shops.” —Recipe contributor Ellen Riley, Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Pumpkin Pie Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Pie

This classic pumpkin pie delivers all the flavors of fall, with a spiced pumpkin filling nestled in a homemade, flaky crust. If you’re feeling creative, decorate the pie with festive pumpkins, vines and leaves for a special touch.

“Usually I prepare two different desserts for our holiday dinner, but one of them must be pumpkin pie—otherwise, it just wouldn’t seem like Thanksgiving. My version calls for more eggs than most, making this pie’s custard filling especially rich.” —Recipe contributor Gloria Warczak, Cedarburg, Wisconsin

Pumpkin Bread Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Bread

Every slice of this pumpkin bread invites you to a sweet coffee break. Walnuts add a bit of crunch to every bite. The batter comes together quickly, and you can add raisins for a touch of sweetness if you like.

“I keep my freezer stocked for our harvest crew with home-baked goodies like this deliciously spicy, easy pumpkin bread recipe.” —Recipe contributor Joyce Jackson, Bridgetown, Nova Scotia

Pumpkin Fudge Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Fudge

Pumpkin fudge has the quintessential blend of fall spices and sweet marshmallow creme. The cinnamon baking chips add an extra layer of flavor, while pecans give it a satisfying crunch.

“Every Thanksgiving I look forward to the taste of pumpkin. This fudge lets me do that and everyone loves it.” —Recipe contributor Marlene Fudge, Rushville, Indiana

Pumpkin Patch Biscuits Recipe photo by Danielle Moore

Pumpkin Biscuits

Save regular biscuits and gravy for any other time of the year. The addition of canned pumpkin gives these a warm, subtly sweet taste, while the buttermilk makes them extra tender.

“I got smart and started making double batches of these moist, fluffy biscuits to meet the demand. My dad loves their pumpkiny goodness and requests them for Christmas, Father’s Day and his birthday.” —Recipe contributor Liza Taylor, Seattle, Washington

Pumpkin Bagels Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Bagels

Pumpkin adds a delicate sweetness to these bagels that makes them perfect for pairing with a schmear of cream cheese. Boiling the bagels before baking gives them that classic bagel crust, and they come out golden and aromatic from the oven.

“Enjoy pumpkin pie flavor with these classic bagels. For a change, adjust the spices to suit your taste buds.” —Recipe contributor Kristy Reeves, LeRoy, Kansas

ELLIE CROWLEY FOR TASTE OF HOME

Pumpkin Muffins

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Pumpkin-Filled Crescent Rolls

The dough in these rolls, enriched with sour cream and lemon zest, is made from scratch and chilled overnight for an extra tender texture. After the overnight rise, you’ll need to let the dough come to room temperature for an hour before punching down the dough.

“This Old World recipe is from my grandmother, who didn’t use traditional measuring cups. We figured out this recipe, which likely dates back to 1900 or earlier.” —Recipe contributor Gary Wanosky, North Ridgeville, Ohio

Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Cookies

There’s nothing a little frosting can’t make better! These soft pumpkin cookies are considered drop cookies because all you have to do is drop the dough on the cooking sheet and bake away.

“A classic cream cheese frosting tops pleasantly spiced pumpkin cookies. Everyone enjoys the soft, cake-like texture.” —Recipe contributor Lisa Chernetsky, Luzerne, Pennsylvania

Pumpkin Banana Muffins Recipe photo by Laura Scherb for Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Banana Muffins

Serve pumpkin banana muffins warm for a delightful breakfast or a snack. If your bananas are slightly too green, here’s how to ripen bananas quickly.

“These pumpkin banana muffins are the perfect bite-sized snack for fall.” —Recipe contributor Desiree Rasch, Blue Springs, Missouri

Fluffy Pumpkin Pancakes Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Pancakes

Put a fun twist on a breakfast classic. The combination of vanilla yogurt and pumpkin creates a smooth batter, while the warm spices add a hint of fall flavor. Pair them with bacon for a smoky side.

“My daughters love these tender, fluffy pancakes served with butter, syrup and whipped cream. We freeze the extras—for popping in the toaster.” —Recipe contributor Mindy Bauknecht, Two Rivers, Wisconsin

Pumpkin Waffles Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Waffles

Buttermilk gives these waffles a slight tang, while the pumpkin adds a touch of sweetness and moisture. Serve them hot off the waffle iron with butter and maple syrup for an autumn-inspired breakfast.

“My girlfriend loves pumpkin, so I often like to incorporate the ingredient in my recipes. In fall, I freeze pumpkin puree just to make these waffles.” —Recipe contributor Charles Insler, Silver Spring, Maryland

Easy Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Gluten-Free Pumpkin Bread

Gluten-free flour and xanthan gum ensure a tender crumb, and canned pumpkin and brown sugar maintain the sweetness. It’s an easy option for those avoiding gluten, and is perfect for sharing or enjoying with a cup of tea.

“I have many friends that are eating gluten free, so I took my tried and true Pumpkin Bread recipe and made it using gluten-free ingredients. It turned out delicious!” —Recipe contributor Cathy Orban, Chandler, Arizona

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Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino

We love making copycat Starbucks recipes. This homemade pumpkin spice Frappuccino blends real pumpkin with coffee, vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice for a creamy, indulgent treat.

“Enjoy your favorite seasonal frozen drink year-round with this copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Frappuccino. Using canned pumpkin, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla ice cream and brewed coffee, it’ll taste just like the real thing, and you won’t even have to wait in line!” —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen

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Pumpkin Muffins with Cake Mix

Two-ingredient recipes are game-changers when you’re in a hurry. All you need is a box of cake mix and a can of pumpkin. The muffins bake up soft and moist in a fraction of the time since there’s hardly any prep.

“Made with nothing more than a can of pumpkin and a box of spice cake mix, these simple pumpkin muffins are easy, fluffy and endlessly versatile. You can add raisins, chocolate, nuts and more.” —Recipe contributor Lauren Habermehl, Pewaukee, Wisconsin

Pumpkin Overnight Oats Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Overnight Oats

Overnight oats make mornings a breeze. The combination of oats, pumpkin and Greek yogurt gives them a creamy texture. Mix everything together, let it chill overnight, and wake up to a ready-to-eat, nutritious meal.

“Have dessert for breakfast with these pumpkin pie-inspired overnight oats. Simple and easy to make, this recipe makes a hearty breakfast that harnesses all the delicious flavor of fall with warm notes of cinnamon, clove, nutmeg and ginger.” —Recipe contributor Molly Allen, Hood River, Oregon

SARAH TRAMONTE FOR TASTE OF HOME

Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cookies

Drizzled cream cheese frosting finishes these gluten-free pumpkin cookies with a pretty lace effect. The first step to the softest cookies ever is creaming the butter with the sugar.

“These yummy pumpkin cookies are light and fluffy, almost like cake cookies, and they are not overly sweet.” —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen

KRISTINA VANNI FOR TASTE OF HOME

Pumpkin Espresso Martini

A classic espresso martini is one thing; a pumpkin espresso martini turns the caffeinated cocktail into the sweetest fall sipper. Dare we say it’s better than the original PSL?

“If you love starting your days with a pumpkin-spiced latte, you’ll want to try this autumn-themed nightcap. Pumpkin flavors power through the subtle vodka flavors for a sweet and rich blend.” —Recipe contributor Julie Andrews, Rockford, Michigan

Canned Pumpkin FAQ

What’s the difference between canned pumpkin and canned pumpkin pie filling?

Canned pumpkin is simply cooked, pureed pumpkin with no added ingredients, making it a versatile base for both sweet and savory recipes. Canned pumpkin pie filling, on the other hand, includes added sugar and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves, making it a ready-made shortcut for pumpkin pie. Be sure to check the label so you’re using the right one for your recipe.

Are canned pumpkin and pumpkin puree the same thing?

Yes, canned pumpkin and pumpkin puree refer to the same product. Both are made from cooked, mashed pumpkin without any added flavors or sweeteners. They’re often labeled interchangeably, but always double-check the ingredients to ensure there are no extras mixed in.

How long is canned pumpkin good for?

Once opened, canned pumpkin will last about five to seven days in the refrigerator if stored in an airtight container. Unopened cans can be kept in a cool, dry pantry for up to two years past the printed expiration date, as long as the can isn’t damaged.