45 Pumpkin Dessert Recipes

Great Pumpkin Dessert Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Dump Cake

Canned pumpkin and cake mix make these bars an effortless alternative to pumpkin pie. Walnuts add a nutty crunch. This tried-and-true dessert is sure to have people reaching for seconds.

“Canned pumpkin and cake mix make these bars an effortless alternative to pumpkin pie. It’s a tried-and-true dessert that always brings big smiles.” —Recipe contributor Linda Guyot, Fountain Valley, California

Pumpkin Cupcakes Recipe photo by Leticia Almeida for Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Spice Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting

It’s hard to think of a dessert that could top these buttermilk pumpkin cupcakes with cinnamon cream cheese frosting. For tender baked goods like muffins and cakes, the key is to mix gently. It also helps to whisk your dry ingredients well before combining them with any wet ingredients.

“I discovered this wonderful pumpkin cupcake recipe and changed it a bit to suit my taste. I love the flavor of pumpkin and the cinnamon makes ordinary cream cheese frosting extra special. When I made a batch for my husband to take to work, he said they disappeared in record time.” —Recipe contributor Debbie Wiggins, Longmont, Colorado

Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting

Love snickerdoodle cookies for their soft, delicate texture? Meet the pleasantly spiced pumpkin version that you’ll want to make over and over again. Top them with cream cheese frosting or use the frosting as a filling to make a sandwich cookie.

“These easy pumpkin cookies are pleasantly spiced. Everyone enjoys the soft, cake-like texture, too.” —Recipe contributor Lisa Chernetsky, Luzerne, Pennsylvania

Pumpkin Cheesecake Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Cheesecake

Good luck not polishing off this pumpkin cheesecake in one sitting. A crumbly graham cracker crust and sour cream frosting studded with pecans is exactly the right move here, but you could also whip up a batch of caramel sauce as a topping.

“When I was young, we produced several ingredients for this pumpkin cheesecake on the farm. We raised pumpkins in our large vegetable garden and made homemade butter and lots of sour cream using milk from our dairy herd.” —Recipe contributor Evonne Wurmnest, Normal, Illinois

Classic Pumpkin Pie Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Classic Pumpkin Pie

Nothing says Thanksgiving like a slice of pie, and you’ll want to relish every luscious bite of this pumpkin pie. Be sure to use canned vs. fresh pumpkin for pie since the canned texture is always more consistent.

“Nothing says Thanksgiving like a slice of pie. And you can relish every luscious bite of this pumpkin pie recipe since the tender crust is made with canola oil and a mere hint of butter.” —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen

Pumpkin Roll Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Roll

This pumpkin roll is great to keep in the freezer for a quick dessert for unexpected guests or to take to a gathering as a yummy gift. Pro tip: Use a larger can of pumpkin to make more rolls. You’ll thank us later.

“This pumpkin roll recipe is great to keep in the freezer for a quick dessert for my family or unexpected guests, to take to a gathering, or to give as a yummy gift.” —Recipe contributor Erica Berchtold, Freeport, Illinois

Pumpkin Bars Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Bars

In case you were wondering, pumpkin bars are the new pumpkin pies in individual, bite-size form. Slathered with cream cheese frosting, they are the ultimate treat. Plus, they’re ready in under an hour.

“Pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting are the ultimate fall treat. But my family likes them so much, they ask me to make them all year long!” —Recipe contributor Brenda Keller, Andalusia, Alabama

SARAH TRAMONTE FOR TASTE OF HOME

Pumpkin Bundt Cake

Pull out your prettiest Bundt pan for this recipe! As it bakes, the intoxicating aroma fills the house with a spicy scent, and once it’s dusted with confectioners’ sugar, it makes for one festive dessert.

“This pumpkin bundt cake recipe is perfect for fall. As it bakes, the aroma fills the house with a spicy scent.” —Recipe contributor Virginia Loew, Leesburg, Florida

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Pumpkin Bread

Overbaking pumpkin bread can cause it to dry out. Bread is done baking when a digital thermometer reads between 200° and 205°F. If you don’t have a digital thermometer, insert a toothpick or knife into the center of the bread. If the tester comes out with crumbs or wet batter, the bread needs more time to bake. But if the tester comes out clean, it’s ready to be removed.

“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

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Cream-Filled Pumpkin Cupcakes

Here’s a brilliant use for pumpkin. Bursting with flavor and plenty of eye-catching appeals, these cream-filled cupcakes are bound to impress your family and friends.

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

Layered Pumpkin Dessert Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Layered Pumpkin Dessert

Pretty layers of cheesecake and pumpkin star in this prize-winning torte. For the airiest whipped cream, be sure to use heavy whipping cream that is icy cold and not ultra-pasteurized.

“Pretty layers of cheesecake and pumpkin star in this prize-winning torte. Not too heavy, it’s especially nice with a big holiday meal. There’s never a morsel left!” —Recipe contributor Ruth Ann Stelfox, Raymond, Alberta

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Pumpkin Chip Cupcakes

We love these cupcakes that are loaded with chocolate chips, chopped walnuts and warming spices. They’re an addictive autumn snack or delicious breakfast with a cup of coffee or hot apple cider.

“I love these cupcakes that are loaded with chocolate chips and chopped walnuts. My mom makes them for dessert on special occasions or for a sweet autumn snack.” —Recipe contributor Jacinta Ransom, South Haven, Michigan

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Pumpkin-Butterscotch Gingerbread Trifle

Gingerbread and pumpkin are two of the most popular holiday flavors, so why not combine them in a tasty trifle? This dish is guaranteed to win the potluck wars, and look good doing it.

“There’s more to pumpkin than pie, as this impressive trifle proves. It looks so elegant with alternating layers of gingerbread cake and pumpkin/butterscotch pudding. Try making it ahead of time for a fuss-free dessert when you’re planning to entertain guests.” —Recipe contributor Lyla Lehenbauer, New London, Missouri

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Ginger-Streusel Pumpkin Pie

Thanks to crystallized ginger, the streusel topping gives this pumpkin pie a special touch. The refrigerated pie crust saves you the hassle of making your own. Use one of the best premade pie crusts, according to our Test Kitchen.

“I love to bake and have spent a lot of time making goodies for my family and friends. The streusel topping gives this pie a special touch your family will love.” —Recipe contributor Sonia Parvu, Sherrill, New York

Dark Chocolate Pumpkin Truffles Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Dark Chocolate Pumpkin Truffles

These delicious truffles are a pretty addition to a party plate and a sweet way to finish up a meal. The unexpected addition of crushed crackers makes them a joy to bite into.

“The combination of pumpkin and dark chocolate is unexpected and delectable. These delicious truffles make a pretty addition to a party plate, a sweet way to finish up a meal, or a gift your friends and family will love.” —Recipe contributor Monica Mooney, Roseville, California

Pumpkin Brownies Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Brownies

Chocolate pumpkin brownies are a fantastic option for parties (did you notice the colors lend themselves to a very Halloween-worthy dessert?). Like other brownie recipes, you can store this one in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

“Chocolate and pumpkin pair up to make a family-favorite fall dessert. These pumpkin brownies are fantastic for parties and picnics.” —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen

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Hot Chocolate Pumpkin Cake

If hot chocolate is your go-to winter indulgence, then you’ll love this pumpkin cake version dusted with cocoa for an extra chocolate boost. To remove the cake easily, use solid shortening to grease the fluted tube pan.

“Hot chocolate is my go-to winter indulgence. To go with it, I like this moist pumpkin cake dusted with cocoa for an extra chocolate boost.” —Recipe contributor Colleen Delawder, Herndon, Virginia

Pumpkin Pie Cake Recipe photo by Eric Kleinberg for Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Pie Cake

No one will guess that this showstopper dessert with luscious cinnamon frosting starts with a mix! It’s a fall favorite that only needs to be baked for 25 minutes. For a sweeter garnish, press candied walnuts onto the sides of the cake.

“No one will guess this showstopper dessert with luscious cinnamon frosting starts with a mix! It’s a year-round favorite.” —Recipe contributor Linda Murray, Allenstown, New Hampshire

Frosted Harvest Cake Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Frosted Harvest Cake

This moist pumpkin sheet cake travels well and is also easy to prepare with a few pantry staples on hand. For the cream cheese vanilla frosting, you’ll want to beat the ingredients with butter in a small bowl until it’s nice and fluffy, then gradually add sugar and milk until smooth. Frost your cake, sprinkle with chopped nuts of your choosing, and you’re ready to serve!

“Craving brownies but want something a little bit different? Indulge in a fall-flavored version topped with a cream cheese frosting.” —Recipe contributor Iola Egle, Bella Vista, Arkansas

Pumpkin Snack Cake Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Snack Cake

This snack cake, topped with pepitas and chocolate chips, is something you’ll want to munch on from breakfast to dinner. Make sure the butter and eggs are at room temperature before incorporating them for an extra-smooth batter.

“The crunchy, sweet topping makes this simple pumpkin snack cake taste extra special. If you prefer a sweeter cake, omit the topping and spread with your favorite frosting instead.” —Recipe contributor Steven Schend, Grand Rapids, Michigan

Pumpkin Torte Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Torte

This layered beauty drizzled with caramel topping will be the prettiest dessert at your fall gathering. Serve it on a cake stand for added presentation points.

“This beautiful layered cake has a creamy filling with a mild pumpkin flavor and a little spice. It is quick and always turns out so well. The nuts and caramel topping add a nice finishing touch.” —Recipe contributor Trixie Fisher, Piqua, Ohio

Pumpkin Cream Tiramisu Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Cream Tiramisu

This recipe proves tiramisu can be better when pumpkin is involved. Now you can take the classic fall produce and enjoy it in a tiramisu-style dessert. After one bite, you’ll add this recipe to your keeper files.

“Pumpkin isn’t only for pies. Now you can take the classic fall vegetable and enjoy it in a tiramisu-style dessert. I promise that after one bite, you’ll add this recipe to your keeper files.” —Recipe contributor Pam Peters, Fernie, British Columbia

Paul's Pumpkin Patch Pudding Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Paul’s Pumpkin Patch Pudding

We would be at the pumpkin patch every day if we knew we could find this luscious, layered pudding there. One scoop reveals a graham cracker crust with a cream cheese and pumpkin middle layer and a whipped cream swirled top. The hardest part of making this dreamy dessert is waiting for it to be ready.

“This recipe originated with Donna Esh, whose husband, John, is the manager at the restaurant my brother Jim and I operate. I reworked it slightly and named it after our dad.” —Recipe contributor John Smucker, Bird-in-Hand, Pennsylvania

Pumpkin Shortbread Dessert Recipe photo by Diana Chistruga for Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Shortbread Dessert

With a shortbread cookie base and a spongy pumpkin pie center, these delightful little squares will go quickly. You may want to double or triple the recipe! A dollop of whipped cream and a snowfall of cinnamon finish them off nicely.

“My family prefers this to traditional pumpkin pie, which is just fine with me. It feeds a crowd, so I need to make only one dessert instead of several pies.” —Recipe contributor Edie DeSpain, Logan, Utah

Frosted Pumpkin Doughnuts Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Frosted Pumpkin Doughnuts

Cinnamon apple cider doughnuts get a lot of love come fall, but how about pumpkin doughnuts frosted with a zesty orange glaze? You can taste the sweet orange and pumpkin flavors in every last bite.

“Our three children grew pumpkins to sell. During harvest, it was time to make these scrumptious doughnuts. The orange frosting is super.” —Recipe contributor Connie Simon, Reed City, Michigan

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

Pumpkin Ice Cream Recipe

Why bother with store-bought pumpkin ice cream when it’s so much fun to make your own? This recipe really captures the flavor of fall.

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

JULIA HARTBECK FOR TASTE OF HOME

Pumpkin Mousse

If you’ve had your fill of pumpkin pie, this cool and creamy pumpkin mousse is a game-changer. Bonus: Its light and fluffy texture won’t make you feel “stuffed” after your favorite turkey dinner. We topped it with crushed gingersnaps, but you could also use vanilla wafers, nuts or caramel sauce.

“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

Pumpkin Creme Brulee Recipe photo by Alejandro Monfort for Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Creme Brulee

We didn’t know creme brulee could get any better—until we tried this out-of-this-world pumpkin version. Cracking the caramelized coating is arguably the best part of the tasting experience for many, but once you dig into this spiced pumpkin vanilla custard, life will be forever changed as you know it.

“I’ve never met a creme brulee that I didn’t love! I’m not a big pumpkin fan, but this is fantastic.” —Recipe contributor Tamara Leonard Merritt, Raleigh, North Carolina

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Pumpkin Ice Cream Sandwiches

These pumpkin ice cream sandwiches taste just like your childhood, only we replaced the chocolate biscuits of our youth with spiced pumpkin cookies. Let’s just put it this way: Cravings satisfied.

“My grandfather loves these pumpkin-flavored treats. They remind him of a cookie his mother made. They’re fun to eat no matter what your age.” —Recipe contributor Amber Wahl, Acampo, California

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Pumpkin Apple Pie

Why choose between pumpkin pie and apple when you can have a bit of both in one bite? This wonderful change-of-pace holiday dessert has a delicious layer of apples under the pumpkin and a flaky golden crust.

“The first time I made this for my family, they gobbled up this wonderful change-of-pace holiday dessert. It has a scrumptious layer of apples under the pumpkin.” —Recipe contributor Elizabeth Montogomery, Taylorville, Illinois

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Chocolate Ganache Pumpkin Tart

A chocolate ganache tart is heavenly on its own, but adding spiced pumpkin really kicks it up a notch. If you’ve never tried it before, follow our guide on how to make ganache—it could take some practice. If desired, garnish with crystallized ginger for a crunchy candy topping.

“I love the flavor combination of spiced pumpkin and chocolate, which inspired me to create this chocolate pumpkin tart. Sometimes I like to sprinkle chopped crystallized ginger over the chocolate ganache for extra flavor and texture.” —Recipe contributor Bernice Janowski, Stevens Point, Wisconsin

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Frozen Pumpkin Dessert

Even pumpkin pie naysayers will be intrigued by this frozen pumpkin ice cream dessert that can be prepared weeks in advance. The chopped walnuts on top give these squares a nice crunch, but you can use any chopped nuts you have on hand.

“This frozen pumpkin ice cream dessert can be prepared and frozen weeks in advance. I’ve found it has more mass appeal than traditional pumpkin pie.” —Recipe contributor Susan Bennett, Edmond, Oklahoma

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Magic Pumpkin Buckle

Warning: This magic pumpkin buckle is bound to become your new favorite dessert. The crust mixture, which is poured in first, rises to the top during baking to form a rich topping. You won’t get a soggy bottom crust here, as you might with a pie.

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

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Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Just 10 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of baking time make this a foolproof recipe that’s as easy as it is yummy. If you like a little more spice or crunch, you could add 1/2 teaspoon of ginger as well as 1/2 cup chopped walnuts.

“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

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Pumpkin-Spice Sugar Cookies

These pumpkin sugar cookies include sugar, spice and everything nice. You can even freeze the dough to make the cookies later, then thaw it overnight or until soft enough to roll, bake and eat.

“I’ve been making these quick and easy cookies for over 20 years. They’re the first to go at our annual church bake sale.” —Recipe contributor Paula Marchesi, Lenhartsville, Pennsylvania

JIM WIELAND FOR TASTE OF HOME

Pumpkin Cheesecake Pie

Pumpkin cheesecake pie is a winner at potlucks and on the Thanksgiving table. The gingersnap crust forms a spicy-sweet foundation and the sour cream vanilla glaze makes this cheesecake shine even brighter.

“If you’re looking for a classic autumn dessert, try this pumpkin cheesecake pie. It’s a winner at potlucks and on the Thanksgiving table. The gingersnap crust forms a spicy-sweet foundation.” —Recipe contributor Sharon Crockett, La Palma, California

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Pecan Pumpkin Dessert

If sweater-weather vibes were a dessert, these pecan pumpkin bars would be it. Because it’s baked in a cake pan, the dessert travels really well. Add the whipped topping-based frosting just before serving.

“I always make this treat for Thanksgiving. A friend gave me the recipe, and I’ve since shared it with many others.” —Recipe contributor Sue Williams, Mount Holly, North Carolina

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Pumpkin Ice Cream Pie

Although this pretty layered pie looks like you spent hours making it, it’s easy to assemble with convenient canned pumpkin, store-bought Heath candy bars and a prepared crust. Top with more crushed candies or try chopped peanut butter cups.

“This pretty layered pie is easy to assemble with convenient canned pumpkin, store-bought candy bars and a prepared crust. While it’s perfect for a Halloween party, this make-ahead dessert is delicious any time of year.” —Recipe contributor Suzanne McKinley, Lyons, Georgia

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Spiced Pumpkin Ice Cream Puffs

Ice cream puffs combine the best of both worlds with sweet ice cream and flaky cream puffs. Adding spiced pumpkin into the equation gives them a festive spin. The effort is worthwhile, and you can make the parts ahead of time for easy assembly later.

“This extraordinary dessert showcases homemade pumpkin ice cream and cream puffs. The effort is worthwhile…and you can make the parts ahead of time for easy assembly later.” —Recipe contributor Richard Lasher, Stuarts Draft, Virginia

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Pumpkin Cannoli Cake Roll

Looking for a unique pumpkin cake for Thanksgiving or Christmas Eve? You’ve met your match with this pumpkin cannoli roll that’s studded with mini chocolate chips. It’s the perfect ending to a special dinner.

“My family has been serving this pumpkin roll every Christmas Eve for as long as I can remember. This last Christmas was no exception. Traditions are so heartwarming. This cake is not too sweet—the perfect ending to a special dinner.” —Recipe contributor Carolyn Rockwell, Milwaukie, Oregon

Cream Cheese Pumpkin Muffins Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Cream Cheese Pumpkin Muffins

Cream cheese makes everything better if you ask us, especially pumpkin muffins. Just make sure you soften the cream cheese before you start baking.

“I first made this recipe back in 1987 and have since made it many times over the years because it’s my children’s favorite muffin recipe.” —Recipe contributor Wendy Stenman, Germantown, Wisconsin

Gingersnap-Pumpkin Dessert Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Gingersnap-Pumpkin Dessert

If making a pie crust from scratch isn’t your jam, then this is the perfect recipe for you, thanks to a boxed cake mix and a cookie crust. The creamy pumpkin filling pairs well with the crunchy topping, and the five-star reviews prove it’s a winner.

“I’ve never quite gotten the hang of making a good pie crust. So I came up with this recipe, featuring a cake mix and cookie crust. The creamy pumpkin filling pairs well with the crunchy topping.” —Recipe contributor Brigitte Mazure, Wheeling, West Virginia

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Pumpkin Cookie Pops

These cookie pops are a great way to liven up a Halloween party. Kids love them, and you can get as creative as you want with the frosting vine swirls. Plus, green gumdrops are the cutest-tasting stems.

“These cookie pops are a great way to liven up a Halloween party. Kids love them!” —Taste Recipes Test Kitchen

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Baked Pumpkin Pudding

Baking pumpkin pudding at 350° for 30 to 35 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean will give you the perfect custard-like consistency. It can be served warm or cold and is a great accompaniment to a cup of coffee or chai tea.

“Even after your favorite turkey dinner, you’ll find room for this perfect pudding dessert—a treat served hot or cold. Mildly spiced, it will leave you sweetly satisfied, but not overly full.” —Recipe contributor Gerri Saylor, Graniteville, South Carolina.

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins Recipe photo by Taste Recipes

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

The addition of pumpkin instantly elevates these chocolate chip muffins, although you could also add in your favorite chopped nuts or dried cranberries for good measure. For bonus presentation points, sprinkle extra chocolate chips on top of the batter before baking.

“My sisters, brothers and I started cooking and baking when we were young. Mom was a very good teacher—she told us we would learn our way around the kitchen. Now, I tell my kids the same thing when we make these pumpkin chocolate chip muffins!” —Recipe contributor Cindy Middleton, Champion, Alberta

Pumpkin Dessert Recipes FAQ

Is there a difference between canned pumpkin and canned pumpkin pie mix?

Yes! Canned pumpkin is just that: pureed, cooked pumpkin. You can use it in savory recipes and pumpkin dessert recipes alike.

Pumpkin pie mix (or pumpkin pie filling), on the other hand, contains sugar, spices and, in some cases, thickeners. Most pumpkin pie mixes take an addition of eggs and evaporated milk to make a pie filling.

Can I use real pumpkin instead of canned pumpkin puree?

You can! But since pumpkin puree is so time-consuming to make, and it can deliver inconsistent results, we recommend canned pumpkin. In our pumpkin pie taste tests, canned pumpkin came out the winner. It’s ideal for pumpkin dessert recipes because it offers a more consistent texture, sugar and water content than fresh purees.

What’s the best canned pumpkin?

Libby’s—just about the most recognizable brand on store shelves—won our canned pumpkin taste test. (Libby’s has grown its pumpkins in Illinois since 1835!) That said, there are some great store-brand options, too. You can’t lose!