As the holiday season approaches, our attention turns to the humble can of pumpkin puree, tucked away in kitchen cupboards and recipe boxes. The rustling of printouts and scribbled notes on index cards signals the start of a culinary journey that celebrates the versatility of this autumnal ingredient. Simple and accessible, canned pumpkin puree is a staple that doesn’t need to be reserved for just one type of dish or occasion.
In fact, it’s an ingredient that can be used year-round in a wide range of recipes, from sweet treats to savory delights. With canned pumpkin puree at your disposal, the possibilities are endless, and we’re excited to share our favorite recipes with you. Just remember to distinguish between plain pumpkin puree and the pre-mixed pumpkin pie filling – the difference lies in the added spices and sugar.
Freshly cooked pumpkin is also a viable substitute, and for those looking to experiment, other cooked winter squashes can be swapped in as well. As we dive into the world of canned pumpkin recipes, you’ll discover that there’s more to this ingredient than just traditional desserts like homemade pumpkin pie. From sweet treats to savory dishes, toasted pumpkin seeds and pumpkin spice add a touch of fall flair to any recipe. So, let’s get cooking and make the most of this versatile ingredient!
5-Minute Pumpkin Soup
While traditional, from-scratch pumpkin soup recipes can be time-consuming, requiring tedious steps like carving the pumpkin and removing seeds. By opting for canned pumpkin instead, you can skip these labor-intensive tasks altogether. This recipe is a perfect example of this approach, as it combines luscious heavy cream with the convenience of five-minute cooking time, resulting in a rich and creamy soup that’s sure to become a fall favorite.
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins
Indulge in the warm, comforting taste of pumpkin with these scrumptious coffee shop-quality muffins. A match made in heaven, pumpkin pairs perfectly with cream cheese due to their bold flavors. These moist treats are ideal for any season, as long as you have a weakness for sweet indulgences. The harmonious blend of regular and brown sugar adds a rich layer of flavor, making them impossible to resist.
Pumpkin Butter
This recipe offers a multitude of creative uses for pumpkin butter. Since its low acidity makes canning impossible, consider cooking it in a slow cooker instead of the stovetop to bring out its incredible aroma. Beyond being a delicious spread on toast or crackers, pumpkin butter is also a versatile ingredient that can elevate various recipes. Try pairing it with cream cheese and crumbled bacon for a tasty snack, or use it as a substitute for traditional dairy butter on your morning toast.
You can also incorporate it into muffins and biscuits for an added layer of flavor.
Pumpkin Cookies
Indulge in the sweet delight of our beloved pumpkin cookies, a treasured family recipe that’s sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. What sets these treats apart is just how effortless they are to prepare, earning us a hearty round of applause from ourselves. We’re not ashamed to brag about this recipe, either – casually drop the hint that you spent all day perfecting it and never compromise on classic family traditions. The secret ingredient?
A simple yet effective combination of box spice cake mix, canned pumpkin, and a pinch of pumpkin pie spice, with no eggs or oil required. And if you’re feeling extra fancy, try pairing them with our signature glaze for an added layer of flavor.
Pumpkin Hummus
While many recipes leveraging canned pumpkin focus on sweet treats, there’s no reason why this versatile ingredient can’t be used in more savory creations. One such example is a delicious pumpkin hummus, where the natural sweetness of the puree complements the bright zing of lemon and the nutty undertones of tahini.
Pumpkin Banana Smoothie
Kick-start your day with a nutritious and delicious pumpkin banana smoothie that’s packed with vital nutrients and potential health benefits. The combination of ripe bananas and pumpkin puree provides a perfect blend of creamy texture and subtle sweetness. To enhance the flavor, add a spoonful of peanut butter for added richness or drizzle some honey or maple syrup if your bananas are not quite ripe.
This recipe is also an excellent way to use up leftover pumpkin puree, reducing food waste and minimizing its environmental impact.
Pumpkin Donuts
As I sit down to write this, my stomach growls with anticipation for these delectable donuts that are sure to impress your Thanksgiving guests. Whether served as a sweet treat on Turkey Day or at brunch the next day when everyone returns to savor the leftovers, these baked ‘cake’ donuts will be a delightful addition to any meal.
Unlike traditional yeast-risen donuts, these treats can skip the deep-frying process altogether, making them an attractive option for those looking to indulge without the extra calories. The warm cinnamon and sweet maple glaze work together in harmony to evoke the comforting flavors of fall, guaranteeing a sweet dream-filled evening for all who partake.
Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
The indulgent ‘super soft spiced sheet cake’ moniker aptly describes these tender treats. The term ‘bars’ might be misleading, as they’re actually incredibly moist and cake-like in texture.
These delectable bites bear a striking resemblance to cream cheese-iced pumpkin brownies – if such a delightful combination existed.
The real stars of the show are nutmeg and cinnamon, which are expertly balanced by the addition of cloves and ginger (a personal favorite spice blend that I like to add to many sweet pumpkin creations).
With its simplicity and ease of preparation, this homemade pumpkin dessert is perfect for a quick after-school treat or impromptu gathering.
Pumpkin Pasta Shells With Spinach And Walnuts
While traditional red and white pasta sauces can be delightful, they may not always bring the same level of excitement to each dish. One way to shake things up is by incorporating pumpkin into your pasta game. The result is a healthy and flavorful twist on classic noodles that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. When paired with spinach and walnuts, this vegetarian starter becomes an impressive addition to any meal, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
Pumpkin Donut Holes
While traditional donuts may get all the attention, their bite-sized counterparts – donut holes – offer a delightful treat that’s hard to resist. Unlike their larger counterparts, these tasty morsels bake into a lovely, compact snack that’s reminiscent of the sweet, cake-like donut holes often found at popular bakeries.
What’s more, this recipe is versatile and can be used to create not only scrumptious donut holes, but also moist muffins or flaky pumpkin scones – a perfect trifecta for any baking enthusiast.
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
I used to be a purist when it came to chocolate chip cookies, firmly believing they should consist solely of chocolate chips and nothing more. However, my perspective shifted after introducing walnuts into the mix. Now, I’m convinced that chocolate chips can elevate any good thing into something extraordinary.
This newfound appreciation for the humble chocolate chip has led me to experiment with new combinations. Banana muffins? Absolutely – they cry out for the addition of chocolate chips!
Pumpkin cookies? The same principle applies: why not combine the warmth of pumpkin with the richness of chocolate?
As a testament to my love affair with chocolate chips, I’m thrilled to share a recipe that brings together the best of both worlds. These chewy pumpkin chocolate chip cookies are a game-changer, requiring no eggs and offering a delightful Christmas treat.
What sets these cookies apart is their perfect balance of textures and flavors.
The addition of pumpkin spice adds a depth and warmth that will leave you wanting more. It’s a match made in heaven!
Thai Coconut Pumpkin Soup
Thai cuisine is a personal favorite of mine, but I often find myself hesitant to attempt a traditional dish due to the lengthy ingredient list that can be challenging to source locally. As a result, ordering in has become my go-to solution for satisfying my cravings. However, I’m also confident in my ability to whip up a delicious and authentic Thai-inspired soup using a carefully curated selection of ingredients.
For this particular recipe, a combination of onion, garlic, curry paste, coconut milk, and canned pumpkin provides the perfect blend of flavors. To take it to the next level, I’d top it off with a sprinkle of fresh minced ginger and a drizzle of lemongrass paste. The end result is a hearty and satisfying soup that’s sure to hit the spot. In fact, the stunning visuals over at Just A Taste have left me feeling inspired to give this recipe a try soon.
As an added bonus, this Thai pumpkin soup can be easily adapted to suit both traditional and vegetarian dietary preferences by simply swapping out the chicken stock for a suitable alternative.
Pumpkin Baked Spiral Pasta
Building on the success of our previous pumpkin pasta recipe, this new dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds. As reported by elavegan. com, this vegan recipe has gained popularity for its creamy sauce and free-from credentials – dairy-free, oil-free, and gluten-free. The slow-baked pumpkin pasta’s most striking feature, however, is its uncanny resemblance to the creamiest mac n cheese spirals.
It’s as if the rich, golden hue of the pumpkin is casting a spell, convincing us that this dish is truly the real deal.
Homemade Pumpkin Ravioli With Garlic Brown Butter
While pumpkin-based pasta is a staple for many, another option to consider is the classic pumpkin ravioli. This dish boasts a burst of flavor from its pumpkin puree stuffing, elevated by the rich depth of brown butter. For those looking to take their cooking skills to the next level, I Am Homesteader provides a comprehensive guide on how to make your own ravioli using a ravioli maker.
While this method may not be as quick as relying on frozen bags, the payoff is well worth the effort – the pumpkin flavor truly shines through. What’s more, these homemade ravioli can be made in bulk and frozen for up to six months, making it easy to enjoy them at a later date. For added indulgence, consider finishing the dish with a drizzle of olive oil. With so many options available, it’s no wonder pumpkin-based pasta has become a beloved fall tradition.
Pumpkin Cream Cheese French Toast
French toast and cinnamon have long been the best of friends. Building upon this harmonious pairing, adding a pumpkin mixture is a natural progression, as it too complements the warm, comforting flavor of cinnamon. For those who adore French toast, this innovative spin on the classic dish is sure to delight. The spherical shape of these creations is also worth noting – how do they achieve such symmetry? It’s a fun surprise.
To elevate the experience, consider serving fresh fruit alongside or pairing with your preferred bacon or sausage.
Pumpkin Casserole
If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping side dish that’s perfect for a crowd, look no further. This 9×13 low-carb pumpkin casserole is a game-changer, offering a flavorful and satisfying alternative to traditional holiday fare.
While Jiffy corn casserole has its place, this savory delight takes center stage with its rich flavors and impressive presentation. And the best part?
It’s incredibly easy to make, thanks to its simple mix of eggs, parmesan, heavy cream, pumpkin (fresh or canned), and a sprinkle of dried rosemary on top.
When it emerges from the oven, this casserole may not be the most visually stunning dish, but the aroma alone is sure to impress. And let’s not forget its impressive capacity – it can easily feed a whole family or even a group of friends, making it an ideal choice for any gathering.
As a bonus, this recipe offers a delicious introduction to vegetarian and keto-friendly cuisine, perfect for those looking to explore new flavors without sacrificing taste.
Pumpkin Breakfast Casserole
If you’re craving a meatless morning treat that combines the flavors of pumpkin pie and French toast, then look no further than this Pumpkin Breakfast Casserole. The description is quite vivid: ‘Think of this Pumpkin Breakfast Casserole as the love child of pumpkin pie and French toast.’ While it may be an unconventional pairing, when I saw the photo, I was intrigued and felt compelled to give it a try.
As a self-proclaimed enthusiast of French toast, I’m eager to add this recipe to my list of must-make dishes. The best part? When done correctly, the casserole is said to taste remarkably like bread pudding, which is definitely a plus in my book. My daughter, on the other hand, has a more discerning palate and isn’t fond of ‘wet bread,’ but I’m all about it. To get started, we’ll be using canned pumpkin, making this a great addition to my collection of favorite pumpkin recipes.
Pumpkin Oatmeal Breakfast Bake
Transforming breakfast into a delightful treat, pumpkin oatmeal can be elevated to new heights by baking it into a cake. This unique twist on the classic porridge adds a delightful dimension to the dish, courtesy of the pumpkin’s inherent charm.
The resulting cake is more than just a novelty – it’s a delicious and satisfying breakfast option that’s perfect for toddlers who are still navigating the world of self-feeding, or anyone looking for a cozy morning treat.
Pair it with a steaming cup of hot tea for the ultimate comfort experience.
Bacon Pumpkin Mock Souffle
Indulge in the delightful union of bacon and pumpkin with this delectable mock soufflé recipe. While it may share a name with its sweet counterpart, rest assured that this savory take on the classic dish is perfect for dinner rather than dessert. Additionally, this grain-free delight makes it an excellent option for those with dietary restrictions. So go ahead, treat yourself to a flavorful and satisfying meal with this unique and tasty pumpkin recipe.
Sweet Potato Pumpkin Casserole
This sweet potato casserole recipe combines the best of both worlds – the rich flavors of pumpkin casserole, with the added depth of sweet potatoes. While my previous experiences with sweet potato casserole have been limited to a less sugary version featuring brown sugar and pecans, I’ve since fallen head over heels in love with this variation.
The key to this dish’s success lies in its versatility – it can be served as both a savory side dish and a decadent dessert, as long as nuts are involved (whether they’re added to the mixture or used as a topping). Foodtastic Mom’s expert tips include the option of microwaving sweet potatoes for convenience or using canned varieties. Alternatively, roasting them in an air fryer is a game-changer – it yields a beautifully crispy skin without heating up the entire house.
In fact, we’re such fans of air fryers that we often give them away. The combination of sweet potatoes and pumpkin will result in an incredibly dense and satisfying dish – I’m thoroughly excited to share this recipe with you.
Chicken Pumpkin Bake
Pumpkin’s versatility isn’t limited to vegetarian and vegan dishes; it also complements meat-based recipes exceptionally well. This particular recipe boasts a lengthy list of dry ingredients, but what sets it apart is its generous use of canned pumpkin and a blend of aromatic spices. The dish’s presentation resembles a comforting casserole, which the Reluctant Entertainer cleverly refers to as a soufflé.
However, the true showstopper is the herbed cream sauce, which elevates this chicken and pumpkin combination into a satisfying dinner option that will appeal to even the most devoted meat lovers while still providing a decent serving of vegetables.
Vegan Pumpkin Risotto
While many people adore risotto, I’ve always found it a bit underwhelming – the flavors are fine, but it tends to sit heavy on my stomach. That being said, when I came across this pumpkin risotto recipe, I was immediately drawn in by its stunning presentation and rich, creamy sauce. The addition of roasted pumpkin adds an extra layer of depth and indulgence, making this dish a true showstopper.
While I’m not typically one to go out of my way for risotto, this recipe has piqued my interest – perhaps it’s time for me to give the classic comfort food another chance? If you end up trying it, let me know what you think! For an added kick, consider adding some chili flakes to give it a spicy twist.
Pumpkin Flatbread
The visual appeal of the dough is truly captivating, boasting a subtle orange hue that’s hard to ignore. As it bakes, the flatbread unfolds into layers of complex flavors, exceeding my initial expectations. In my mind’s eye, these flatbreads evoke thin-crust pizzas, but with a more pliable, tortilla-like texture.
When it comes to preparing this recipe, I appreciate the specific guidance on garlic usage – opting for pressed garlic over minced and reserving pumpkin pie filling in favor of unsweetened puree. Garlic and sugar may not be the most natural pairing, after all. This flatbread also happens to pair beautifully with Indian cuisine, such as curries and butter chicken. However, I can envision it just as well alongside a wide range of dishes – warm, fragrant, and ready to elevate any meal.
And why stop there? The versatility of canned pumpkin is undeniable. Why not use it to craft a pumpkin flatbread, perfect for dipping into soup or building a satisfying sandwich?
Brown Butter Pumpkin Galette With Caramelized Onions, Goat Cheese & Sage
The pumpkin galette is a delightful twist on the classic oven-baked pizza, with its rustic crust and flavorful filling. The addition of goat cheese and sage elevates the dish, adding a depth of character that’s sure to impress. This recipe is perfect for Thanksgiving dinner, where it can serve as both a creative appetizer and a delicious side dish. I’m particularly excited about this recipe because it incorporates my favorite herb, sage, in a way that’s both familiar and innovative.
Rather than making the traditional pâte brisée, I’ll be using a Pillsbury pie crust to simplify the process. This galette is also an excellent option when you’re unsure what to serve alongside your main course, as its rustic charm makes it feel like a comforting, homemade treat.
Easy Pumpkin Bread
Ditch the commercial cornbread and banana bread, and let’s elevate our baking game with a from-scratch Pumpkin Bread that fills the air with the unmistakable aroma of warm spices. The recipe in question has us hooked – we’re talking about the importance of ‘double acting’ baking powder and the need for prompt oven placement. Will Cook For Smiles drives home the point to use fresh ingredients, updating those old baking staples to ensure a superior final product. We couldn’t agree more!
As our mantra goes, everyone deserves good food – your family, friends, colleagues, and yes, even yourself. So, when investing time, money, and effort into crafting a delectable homemade pumpkin bread, strive for perfection.
The bottom line
Pumpkin’s subtlety is often misunderstood. When consumed straight from the can, its natural flavor profile reveals itself as understated, with subtle notes of cooked squash and a hint of earthiness. The experience is akin to sipping a warm cup of tea on a crisp autumn morning – unassuming yet inviting.
