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Pumpkin Recipes for Fall and Thanksgiving
Pumpkin season is here, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with warm and cozy recipes that bring out its best flavor. From creamy custards and puddings to tender cakes and muffins, these dishes highlight pumpkin’s natural sweetness and pair beautifully with autumn spices.
Whether you’re planning a Thanksgiving dessert table or just want a festive treat for a crisp fall day, this collection has you covered. You’ll find classics like pumpkin pie alongside creative twists such as bourbon pumpkin pie, pumpkin French toast, and even Instant Pot pumpkin crème brûlée. So go ahead and bake up one—or several—and enjoy the comforting taste of the season.
Most of these recipes call for canned pumpkin purée, not pumpkin pie mix. That’s an important distinction, because purée is simply cooked, mashed pumpkin with nothing added, while pie mix comes pre-sweetened and spiced. The two aren’t interchangeable, so be sure to use the right one for baking. In addition, if you have leftover pumpkins from Halloween, you can roast and mash the flesh yourself for a homemade purée. It’s simple, flavorful, and it freezes beautifully for later use.
Learn how to make this iconic pumpkin roll for your next holiday feast. With warm spices, moist pumpkin, and a sweet, irresistible cream cheese filling, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone! Make two—they freeze beautifully!
See more yummy pumpkin dessert recipes!
Why make two pies when you can have the best of both worlds in one scrumptious pie? Unless you’re cooking for a crowd, this pumpkin pecan pie is the only one you’ll need—it’s the perfect layered combination of crunchy pecan pie and smooth, perfectly spiced pumpkin custard.
These pumpkin muffins are easy to make—no electric mixer needed—and you probably have most of the pantry ingredients on hand. A can of pumpkin (purée, not the spiced pie filling kind), some warm spices, and pantry staples are the only ingredients you need. They’re great plain, but feel free to drizzle thin vanilla icing or glaze over them.
This silky pumpkin crème brûlée is a fall twist on the classic dessert, and the Instant Pot makes it simple and fuss-free. With warm spices and a creamy custard base, it’s a comforting make-ahead treat. The caramelized sugar topping adds just the right finishing touch.
Pumpkin pie is one of those Thanksgiving dessert traditions that’s worth keeping. This classic recipe is the only one you’ll need.
Use homemade pie pastry, a refrigerated pastry sheet, or a frozen, ready-made crust.
This easy pumpkin cake starts with a cake mix and gets a cozy upgrade from warm spices and pumpkin purée. The real star is the broiled coconut-pecan topping—it bakes into a crunchy, caramelized layer that’s lighter than frosting but every bit as irresistible. A festive choice for Thanksgiving or Christmas!
This bourbon-spiked pumpkin pie adds a bold twist to a classic! A splash of bourbon enhances the warm spices and rich pumpkin filling, making this pie a standout on any Thanksgiving dessert table. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for an unforgettable finish.
Pumpkin French toast is cozy and full of fall flavor! A touch of pumpkin purée and warm spices makes this breakfast extra special, with just the right balance of sweetness and comfort. Use your favorite bread, such as brioche, sourdough, or cinnamon swirl. It’s the perfect way to start a crisp autumn morning!
Pumpkin pudding is smooth, creamy, and full of fall flavor! This crust-free twist on pumpkin pie is easier to make but just as satisfying, with warm spices and a velvety texture. Serve it with whipped cream for a simple yet elegant dessert that’s perfect for Thanksgiving or any autumn gathering.
Soft, spiced, and glazed with caramel. These pumpkin cookies are full of autumn flavor, thanks to warm spices and a silky caramel icing. They’re perfect for fall gatherings or an afternoon treat with coffee or tea—don’t forget a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top!
Creamy and full of fall flavor, this pumpkin rice pudding is a comforting twist on a classic dessert, infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin purée. Top this dessert with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for the perfect autumn treat!
