Fall is here, and that means it’s time for pumpkin everything! From sweet treats to savory dishes, pumpkin adds a cozy flavor to many recipes.

You’ll find lots of ways to use this versatile ingredient in your cooking and baking.

These 15 pumpkin recipes will give you plenty of ideas to try this season. You’ll discover classic favorites like pumpkin bread and pie, plus some unexpected dishes that showcase pumpkin’s savory side.

Get ready to fill your kitchen with the warm scent of autumn spices as you whip up these tasty pumpkin creations.

1. Pumpkin Spice Pancakes

Treat yourself to a cozy fall breakfast with pumpkin spice pancakes. These fluffy pancakes are packed with warm autumn flavors.

To make them, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and pumpkin pie spice in a bowl. In another bowl, whisk together milk, pumpkin puree, eggs, and melted butter.

Combine the wet and dry ingredients, being careful not to overmix.

Cook the batter on a hot griddle until bubbles form, then flip.

Serve your pumpkin spice pancakes warm with maple syrup and a sprinkle of cinnamon. You can also add chopped nuts or whipped cream for extra indulgence.

2. Creamy Pumpkin Soup

Warm up with a bowl of creamy pumpkin soup. This easy recipe comes together in just 15 minutes. You’ll need canned pumpkin puree, broth, and a few spices.

Start by sautéing onions and garlic in a pot. Add the pumpkin, broth, and spices.

Simmer for 10 minutes, then blend until smooth.

For extra creaminess, stir in some heavy cream or coconut milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve hot with a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds or croutons on top.

This comforting soup is perfect for chilly fall days. It’s packed with flavor and nutrients from the pumpkin. You can easily adjust the spices to suit your taste.

3. Pumpkin Curry

Pumpkin curry is a flavorful dish that combines the sweetness of pumpkin with aromatic spices. You can make it in just 15 minutes, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and bell peppers in oil. Add garlic and ginger for extra flavor.

Mix in curry paste and cook briefly.

Next, add pumpkin, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the pumpkin softens.

You can use fresh pumpkin chunks or canned puree.

For protein, try adding tofu or chickpeas. Finish with a splash of lime juice and soy sauce for balance.

Serve your pumpkin curry over rice or with naan bread for a satisfying meal.

4. Pumpkin Pie

Pumpkin pie is a classic fall dessert you can easily make at home. Start with a flaky pie crust, either store-bought or homemade.

Mix canned pumpkin puree with sweetened condensed milk, eggs, and spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves.

Pour this filling into your crust.

Bake the pie at 425°F for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F and bake for about 40 more minutes. The pie is done when a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.

Let your pumpkin pie cool before serving. Top with whipped cream for an extra special treat.

5. Pumpkin Muffins

Pumpkin muffins are a tasty fall treat you can enjoy for breakfast or as a snack. To make them, you’ll need pumpkin puree, flour, eggs, sugar, oil, and spices like cinnamon and ginger.

Mix the dry and wet ingredients separately, then combine them gently.

Don’t overmix the batter, as this can make your muffins tough.

Pour the batter into a muffin tin and bake at 425°F for 5 minutes. Then, lower the temperature to 350°F and bake for about 17 more minutes.

Your muffins are done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let them cool before enjoying.

These muffins are moist, flavorful, and perfect for autumn.

6. Pumpkin Bread

Pumpkin bread is a fall favorite that’s easy to make. You’ll need pumpkin puree, flour, sugar, oil, eggs, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.

Mix the wet and dry ingredients separately, then combine them.

Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake at 350°F for about an hour.

Your house will smell amazing as it bakes. The result is a moist, flavorful bread perfect for breakfast or snacks.

Try adding chocolate chips or nuts for extra texture. You can also make muffins instead of a loaf for grab-and-go treats.

7. Pumpkin Risotto

Pumpkin risotto is a comforting fall dish that’s easier to make than you might think. Start by sautéing onions in a large pot with oil and butter. Add cubed pumpkin and cook until it starts to soften.

Stir in Arborio rice and coat it with the oil.

Gradually add warm chicken broth, letting each addition absorb before adding more. This process takes about 20-30 minutes.

For extra flavor, try adding sage leaves or crispy bacon bits.

When the rice is creamy and cooked to your liking, finish with Parmesan cheese and a pat of butter.

The result is a rich, creamy risotto with a subtle pumpkin flavor.

8. Pumpkin Lasagna

Pumpkin lasagna is a tasty twist on the classic Italian dish. You’ll love this cozy, fall-inspired meal that combines creamy pumpkin with savory cheese and pasta.

To make it, start by cooking lasagna noodles until al dente. While they cool, prepare a pumpkin sauce using canned pumpkin, cream, and sage.

Layer the noodles with the pumpkin mixture, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella. Some recipes add sautéed mushrooms and onions for extra flavor.

Bake your pumpkin lasagna in the oven until it’s hot and bubbly.

The result is a comforting dish with a beautiful orange hue and rich, seasonal taste.

9. Pumpkin Chili

Pumpkin chili is a tasty twist on classic chili. It combines ground meat, beans, and spices with pumpkin puree for a hearty fall meal.

To make it, brown ground beef or turkey in a large pot. Add onions, bell peppers, and garlic, cooking until soft.

Stir in tomatoes, beans, and pumpkin puree.

Season with chili powder, cumin, and cinnamon for warmth and depth.

Let the chili simmer to blend the flavors. You can adjust the spices to your taste.

Serve it topped with cheese, sour cream, or green onions.

This dish is perfect for cool autumn nights. It’s filling, nutritious, and easy to make ahead of time.

10. Pumpkin Smoothie

Pumpkin smoothies are a tasty way to enjoy fall flavors. You can make one easily at home with a few simple ingredients.

Start with pumpkin puree as your base. Add milk, yogurt, and a frozen banana for creaminess.

Toss in some pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon for extra flavor.

Blend everything until smooth.

For added nutrition, try mixing in chia seeds or protein powder. You can also use maple syrup or dates to sweeten it naturally.

This drink makes a great breakfast or post-workout snack.

It’s packed with vitamins and fiber from the pumpkin. Enjoy your smoothie right away for the best taste and texture.

11. Pumpkin Waffles

Pumpkin waffles are a tasty fall breakfast treat. You can make them easily at home with canned pumpkin and basic pantry ingredients.

To start, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and spices like cinnamon and ginger in a bowl. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, and melted butter.

Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring just until mixed.

Don’t overmix – some lumps are okay.

Pour the batter into a preheated waffle iron. Cook until golden brown and crisp on the outside.

Serve your pumpkin waffles warm with butter and maple syrup. They’re perfect for a cozy weekend breakfast or brunch.

12. Pumpkin Cheesecake

Pumpkin cheesecake is a tasty fall dessert that blends creamy cheesecake with pumpkin pie flavors. To make it, you’ll need a graham cracker crust and a filling made with cream cheese, pumpkin puree, eggs, sugar, and spices.

Mix the cream cheese until smooth, then add sugar and beat until fluffy.

Stir in pumpkin, sour cream, spices, and vanilla. Gently mix in the eggs last.

Pour the filling into the crust and bake in a water bath. This helps the cheesecake cook evenly and prevents cracks.

Bake until the center is almost set, then cool slowly.

Top your pumpkin cheesecake with whipped cream or a sour cream topping for extra richness.

It’s a perfect dessert for Thanksgiving or any autumn gathering.

13. Pumpkin Salad

Pumpkin salad is a tasty way to enjoy this fall favorite. You can make it with roasted pumpkin cubes for a warm, comforting dish.

To prepare, toss pumpkin pieces with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast them in the oven until golden and tender.

Mix the cooled pumpkin with fresh spinach leaves and crumbled feta cheese. Add some toasted pumpkin seeds for extra crunch.

For dressing, try a mix of orange juice, vinegar, and honey. This sweet and tangy flavor complements the pumpkin nicely.

You can customize your salad with other ingredients like dried cranberries or sliced red onions. Serve it as a side dish or light meal.

14. Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Pumpkin mac and cheese adds a seasonal twist to a comfort food classic. You’ll start by cooking pasta until just shy of al dente.

While the pasta cooks, prepare a creamy sauce with butter, flour, milk, and pumpkin puree.

Add spices like garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of nutmeg for extra flavor.

Stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Then mix in the cooked pasta.

Some recipes call for sage or thyme to enhance the fall flavors.

This dish comes together quickly in one pot on the stovetop.

The pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness and beautiful orange color to the cheesy sauce.

15. Pumpkin Hummus

Pumpkin hummus is a tasty fall twist on traditional hummus. You can make it easily in a food processor.

Blend chickpeas, pumpkin puree, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic until smooth. Add cumin and salt to taste.

For extra flavor, try adding orange juice or pumpkin seed oil. Adjust the consistency by adding water if needed.

Serve your pumpkin hummus in a bowl.

Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, pumpkin seeds, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika.

This versatile dip pairs well with pita chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables. You can make it ahead and store it in the fridge for a quick snack.

Health Benefits of Pumpkin

Pumpkin packs a powerful nutritional punch and offers several health perks. It’s low in calories but rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support your wellbeing.

Nutritional Value

Pumpkin is a nutrient-dense food. It’s high in vitamin A, which helps your eyesight and immune system.

One cup of cooked pumpkin gives you more than 200% of your daily vitamin A needs.

Pumpkin also contains:

• Vitamin C for skin health
• Potassium for heart function
• Fiber for digestion
• Vitamin E for cell protection

These nutrients come with few calories. A cup of cooked pumpkin has only 49 calories, making it great for weight management.

Pumpkin seeds are also nutritious. They’re full of:

• Healthy fats
• Protein
• Zinc for immune support
• Magnesium for bone health

Antioxidant Properties

Pumpkin is loaded with antioxidants. These compounds protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.

The bright orange color of pumpkin comes from beta-carotene. Your body turns this into vitamin A.

Beta-carotene may lower your risk of some cancers and eye problems.

Other antioxidants in pumpkin include:

• Alpha-carotene
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E

These work together to boost your immune system and fight inflammation. Eating pumpkin regularly might help reduce your risk of chronic diseases.

The antioxidants in pumpkin may also slow down skin aging. They protect your skin from sun damage and keep it looking young.

Cooking Tips for Pumpkin Recipes

Cooking with pumpkin can be fun and rewarding. These tips will help you choose the best pumpkins and prepare them for your recipes.

Selecting the Right Pumpkin

Pick small to medium-sized pumpkins for cooking. They’re sweeter and have better texture than large ones.

Look for pumpkins that feel heavy for their size. The skin should be hard and free of soft spots or blemishes.

Sugar pumpkins or pie pumpkins work best for recipes. They have denser, less stringy flesh.

Avoid using jack-o’-lantern pumpkins, as they tend to be watery and less flavorful.

When buying canned pumpkin, check the label. Some brands mix in other squashes. Pure pumpkin is best for most recipes.

Preparation Techniques

To prepare a fresh pumpkin, wash the outside first.

Cut it in half and scoop out the seeds and strings. You can roast the seeds for a tasty snack.

For purees, you can bake, steam, or boil pumpkin pieces.

Baking brings out the best flavor. Cut the pumpkin into chunks and roast at 350°F for about 45 minutes.

Let cooked pumpkin cool before pureeing.

A food processor or blender works well for this. Strain the puree to remove excess liquid if needed.

Freeze extra pumpkin puree in 1-cup portions.

This makes it easy to use in future recipes.