23 Best Canned Pumpkin Recipes For Fall Season
Canned pumpkin is the secret ingredient that makes fall cooking feel extra easy—and totally delicious. In this roundup of 23 best canned pumpkin recipes, we’re diving into everything from dreamy desserts to savory dinners that warm you up from the inside out.
There’s something here for every craving. Think creamy pastas, gooey brownies, cozy breakfast oats, and even protein-packed snacks to get you through busy days.
Whether you’ve got one can in the pantry or five, these recipes will show you just how versatile that orange purée can be.
So grab a spoon, light a fall candle, and let’s cook something pumpkin-y together. These are the comfort meals and sweet treats that make chilly weather feel like a celebration.
1. Classic Pumpkin Pie
Want to relive that cozy, sentimental pie moment? With every bite of this traditional canned pumpkin pie, you’ll feel the coziness of fall.
What makes it so good is how simple it is—just one bowl and five ingredients: pumpkin purée, eggs, condensed milk, pumpkin pie spice, and a crust. It’s practically foolproof and comes together in minutes, then bakes into a silky-smooth custard that feels like a cozy hug on a cool evening.
The flavor hits are rich pumpkin balanced by caramel-sweet condensed milk and that deep, aromatic blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and clove.
The crust? Flaky and crisp around the edges, pulled together by blind-baking to keep its shape. Every slice gives you that ideal contrast of smooth filling and delicate crust—just the kind of texture moment you remember.
Pro tip: stir a little extra ground ginger or even a squeeze of fresh orange zest into the filling to brighten things up.
Serve with whipped cream and perhaps a side of coffee or chai. Whether you’re toasting Thanksgiving or just craving something sweet and homey, this pie checks all the boxes.
Photo credit: thekitchn.com
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2. Cozy Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte
Need that café vibe without leaving home? This pumpkin spice latte uses real canned pumpkin, warms with cozy spices, and whips up in under ten minutes—no long coffee shop line necessary .
It hits all the nostalgic fall feels: velvety steamed milk, strong coffee, and a gentle pumpkin-spice warmth with cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, and ginger.
Texture-wise it’s silky with a light froth cap, flavored with real pumpkin—not just syrups. You can switch to oat or almond milk for a dairy-free version, and if you’re feeling fancy, top it with foam or whipped cream and a dusting of pumpkin spice. It’s that comfy sweater in a mug, any time of day.
Chef’s tip: double the pumpkin-spice blend, store it in the fridge, and later you can mix it into oatmeal, smoothies, or even pancake batter. This drink is the ultimate cozy ritual—perfect for Sunday mornings or chilly afternoons.
Photo credit: inspiredtaste.net
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3. Creamy Pumpkin Alfredo Pasta
Imagine a rich, creamy, autumnal take on fettuccine Alfredo that is both special enough for guests and quick enough for weeknights.
The simple five-ingredient sauce that combines canned pumpkin, garlic, butter, cream, and Parmesan gives each strand a smooth, flavorful coating.
Texture is smooth and velvety, while the taste balances sweet pumpkin with rich cream and salty cheese.
Garlic adds savory depth, and you can boost it with a sprinkle of nutmeg or fresh parsley. It’s indulgent comfort food without the fuss.
Pro tip: toss in a handful of fresh spinach or peas in the last minute of cooking for a color burst. Pair with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a full meal. It reheats beautifully, making it a great leftover option—just add a splash of milk when reheating to keep it creamy.
Photo credit: pinchofyum.com
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4. Pumpkin Cheesecake Muffins with a Creamy Surprise
Here’s a bake that earns serious cozy-points: ultra-soft pumpkin muffins with a tangy cheesecake center—like a mini dessert in muffin form. These are moist, springy, and spiced just right, with that gorgeous cream cheese burst taking each bite up a notch.
The filling bakes into the batter, giving you a melty cheesecake surprise at the heart.
Pumpkin pie spice gives flavor without heaviness, and you can top with pepitas or a cinnamon sugar sprinkle for crunch and autumn flair. Each muffin is a perfect balance of sweet and tang, fluffy and slightly decadent.
These muffins shine for breakfast, lunchboxes, or afternoon treats. They freeze well—just pop one out for a quick pick-me-up later.
Want to switch it up? Use gluten-free flour or dairy-free cream cheese and nobody will ever know.
Photo credit: scientificallysweet.com
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5. Pumpkin Lasagna Roll‑Ups
Craving something comforting with a fall twist? These pumpkin lasagna roll‑ups layer creamy pumpkin, ricotta, parmesan, and mozzarella into each noodle before rolling and baking—resulting in a dish that’s part pasta comfort, part seasonal treat.
It’s like a lasagna hug in every bite, with the pumpkin lending a buttery sweetness and the cheeses bringing that indulgent, gooey pull.
Picture tender noodles wrapped snug around a sage‑laced pumpkin‑cheese filling, all drenched in a silky bechamel and topped with browned mozzarella. The textures are playful—soft, creamy, and slightly crisp at the edges.
It’s easy to prep in advance, roll up before baking, and then pop into the oven when guests arrive or craving hits.
Chef tip: crisp some fresh sage leaves in browned butter and sprinkle them atop just before serving—they add a fragrant, crunchy finish that elevates the whole dish.
Try pairing it with a crisp arugula‑pear salad and your favorite glass of white wine for a cozy fall dinner. It’s hearty, elegant, and completely spoon‑worthy.
Photo credit: howsweeteats.com
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6. Savory Pumpkin Ravioli
Here’s a pasta moment that feels fancy—but is totally doable at home. Thin sheets of pasta cradle a sage‑spiced pumpkin filling, delivering a warm, autumnal flavor that’s both comforting and elegant.
It’s the kind of dish you’ll whip up for date night or a Sunday when you want dinner to feel extra special.
Each ravioli pillow is filled with velvety pumpkin, mingled with butter‑sautéed onion, poultry seasoning, and a hint of turmeric that deepens the color and flavor.
Once cooked, toss them in browned butter and crisp sage, or top with toasted pepitas for crunch. Every bite is creamy, subtly spiced, and deeply satisfying.
For a twist, swirl in a spoonful of creme fraiche or a sprinkle of fresh thyme. Serve alongside roasted Brussels sprouts or a simple beet salad for a full meal.
It’s perfect for impressing guests without stressing in the kitchen—and freeze extras uncooked to have ravioli ready any night you need a cozy, stylish dinner.
Photo credit: kingarthurbaking.com
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7. Pumpkin White Wine Orzo with Chicken
Looking for something light yet indulgent? This pumpkin white wine orzo with chicken comes together in under 30 minutes and delivers a creamy, satisfying twist on weeknight dinner. It’s bright, savory, and just fancy enough to feel like a treat.
Tender orzo simmers in a mixture of chicken broth, white wine, garlic, and pumpkin purée until it’s luxuriously rich.
Add pan‑seared chicken breast and finish with butter, Parmesan, and fresh parsley—creating layers of flavor that blend creamy, zesty, and herby notes into every spoonful. The pumpkin adds body and color, without overwhelming.
Pro tip: swap in spinach or peas for a pop of color and extra nutrients. Serve with roasted asparagus or garlic bread to round things out.
It reheats beautifully for leftovers, so you can pack a microwavable portion for lunch the next day. Cozy, bright, and totally weeknight‑ready—that’s this dish.
Photo credit: onceuponapumpkinrd.com
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8. Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cake
This dessert is perfect for fall indulgence: a spicy pumpkin cake base with a gooey layer of cream cheese that is melt-in-your-mouth in the middle and crackly on top. At parties, this type of dessert quickly goes away, and with good cause.
Under the crackly top lies a soft, pumpkin‑spiced cake layer, moistened by canned pumpkin and warmed with cinnamon, nutmeg, clove.
The cream cheese layer adds a rich, tangy contrast that balances the sweetness and adds a velvety texture. Each bite is both cozy and decadent.
Baker’s tip: chill the cake for a couple of hours before slicing—it helps the layers set and flavors meld. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle caramel sauce for extra flair.
Serve with coffee or chai for brunch, or bring it to friendsgiving—it’s showstopper good and effortlessly easy.
Photo credit: bluebowlrecipes.com
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9. Pumpkin Swirl Brownies
These brownies bring the best of both worlds: intense chocolate fudge and autumn‑spiced pumpkin in one stunning swirl.
The dark chocolate brownie base stays moist and rich, while the canned pumpkin layer adds a moist, subtly spiced contrast that’s almost irresistible.
Picture sinking your teeth into a fudgy brownie that gives way to a marbled burst of cinnamon‑and‑nutmeg‑spiced pumpkin.
The swirl pattern makes it feel special, like a bakery treat that feels impressive but is actually easy to make. It’s the kind of dessert that fills your kitchen with that warm, cozy aroma within minutes of baking .
Here’s a fun trick: swirl the pumpkin gently in a figure‑eight motion so each bite gets both flavors. Slice after it cools slightly to keep the layers clean and gooey.
These brownies are perfect for potlucks, fall gatherings, or whenever you want something chocolatey but seasonal. Double the batch—you’ll want leftovers with your afternoon coffee.
Photo credit: mikebakesnyc.com
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10. Pumpkin Snickerdoodle Cookies
These chewy brown‑butter pumpkin snickerdoodles are the fall cookie you didn’t know you needed. The soft, gooey centers and crispy edges taste like a cinnamon sugar dream, with pumpkin pie spice woven throughout.
You start by browning the butter to add a deep, nutty caramel flavor—every bite is like autumn in cookie form. Mix in canned pumpkin, roll each dough ball in cinnamon sugar, and bake until golden. The result is a cookie that’s soft, pillowy, and full of cozy spice.
Helpful tip: blot the pumpkin puree before measuring—it prevents cakey texture and ensures that perfect chewiness. The recipe doesn’t need chilling or a mixer, so it’s beginner‑friendly. Bake a batch for school lunches, coffee dates, or spontaneous cookie cravings.
Photo credit: cambreabakes.com
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11. Pumpkin Pancakes with Maple Syrup and Nutmeg Whipped Cream
Start your morning with pancakes that taste like fall hugs. These fluffy pumpkin‑ infused pancakes are elevated by a sweet maple syrup drizzle and cloud‑light whipped cream spiced with nutmeg. They feel indulgent, but they’re super easy to whip up.
The batter uses canned pumpkin for moisture and warmth, while spices like cinnamon and nutmeg give a gentle fall flavor.
When cooking, the pancakes hold their shape perfectly and fluff to golden perfection.
Top with maple syrup that pools into the pockets—they soak up every syrup drop. Don’t skip the whipped cream with a pinch of fresh nutmeg—it’s the cozy touch that pulls the whole stack together.
Serve with hot coffee or apple cider. Ideal for lazy weekend brunches or holiday mornings—why not start the day on a delicious note?
Photo credit: foodnetwork.com
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12. Pumpkin Apple Baked Oatmeal
Looking for a breakfast that’s comforting, nutritious, and smells like fall? This baked oatmeal blends canned pumpkin, chopped apples, warm spices, and hearty oats into a cozy one‑dish brunch or breakfast option .
The oatmeal bakes until just set—soft and tender on top with a lightly crisp edge.
Each spoonful offers sweet pumpkin, crisp-tart apple notes, and a sprinkle of cinnamon and nutmeg. It tastes like a cross between autumn fruit crisp and creamy oatmeal.
Top with a dollop of yogurt or a drizzle of maple syrup. To mix it up, stir in pumpkin seeds, walnuts, or dried cranberries for texture and variety.
This baked oatmeal reheats beautifully, so you can slice a piece and heat for a cozy breakfast any morning. Healthy, flavorful, and totally fall‑worthy.
Photo credit: reciperunner.com
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13. Frozen Pumpkin Smoothie
This frozen pumpkin smoothie starts with canned pumpkin, protein powder, spices, and a splash of milk—it transforms into a creamy, icy treat that tastes like fall in a cup. It’s the perfect blend of healthy and indulgent, ideal for a post-workout boost or a midday pick-me-up.
The texture is thick and velvety thanks to the tiny ice crystals you get from freezing part of the pumpkin ahead of time—or just toss in extra ice.
Flavors dance between pumpkin-spice warmth and creamy richness; cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of ginger give it its seasonal charm.
Pro tip: freeze leftover canned pumpkin in ice cube trays so you can toss them straight in the blender later—no measuring required.
Whether you’re craving something cool or cozy, this smoothie delivers both. Enjoy it plain or top with a sprinkle of granola or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Photo credit: onceuponapumpkinrd.com
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14. Pumpkin S’mores Bars
Picture the best of summer and fall in one dessert: spiced pumpkin cookie base, melted chocolate chips, and gooey toasted marshmallows baked until blissful. These bars are fudgy, chewy, and irresistibly nostalgic.
The cookie layer infuses pumpkin spice into every bite, while the chocolate and marshmallow swirl on top adds texture—slightly crisp edges, molten middle.
Each bar feels cozy and over-the-top in the best way, like your favorite campfire treat with autumn flair.
Baker’s tip: blot pumpkin puree to reduce moisture and follow the figure-8 swirl method so each piece is well layered. These bars hold up beautifully for travel or parties—just bake, slice, and let everyone swoon.
Photo credit: onceuponapumpkinrd.com
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15. Pumpkin Enchiladas
Looking for a savory pumpkin twist on taco night? These pumpkin enchiladas bring together canned pumpkin, shredded chicken, chili powder, garlic, and warm spices—all baked in corn or flour tortillas then topped with melted Monterey Jack cheese. It’s a creative, hearty dish with a Tex-Mex kick.
The filling is vibrant: smooth pumpkin blends into spicy sauce with chili and garlic, while the chicken adds savory heft. This isn’t dessert pumpkin—it’s creamy, savory, fall comfort, perfect for maple leaf season dinners or weeknight gatherings.
Easy to prep: blend the sauce, fill the tortillas, top with cheese, bake, and dinner’s done. Swap chicken for beans or add avocado crema for a fresh finish. These leftovers taste even better the next day, making this dish perfect for meal prep.
Photo credit: noguiltmom.com
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16. Pumpkin Cookies with Cream Cheese Frosting
Here’s your ultimate fall cookie: soft, cake-like pumpkin cookies crowned with tangy, creamy frosting—spiced just right and begging for more . They feel special, yet baking them is a breeze.
The cookie edges crisp gently while the centers stay pillowy soft, warmed with cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger.
Once cooled, they’re frosted with smooth cream cheese topping for a sweet, tangy balance that elevates the cookies to next-level autumn vibes.
Pro tip: underbake slightly for gooey centers, then cool and frost—they stay soft longer. These are perfect for holiday cookie platters, lunchboxes, or cozy coffee breaks.
Want to switch it up? Freeze unfrosted and thaw to frost later—you’ll have fresh cookies anytime.
Photo credit: crazyforcrust.com
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17. Creamy Vegan Pumpkin Pasta Bake
This vegan pumpkin pasta bake transforms canned pumpkin into a cozy casserole that’s creamy, comforting, and perfect for chilly nights. The sauce combines pumpkin, onion, garlic, plant-based milk, and spices like cumin and smoked paprika for a flavor-packed twist on classic mac and cheese.
Picture penne or bow-tie pasta coated in a silky pumpkin-cheese sauce, topped with melty vegan cheese and baked until bubbly and golden.
The pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness and body to the sauce, while spices and herbs round it out. It feels indulgent without weighing you down.
Cook’s tip: stir in fresh spinach or kale before baking for a boost of color and nutrients. If you’re gluten-free, any pasta works great here—this dish adapts beautifully. Serve with roasted veggies or a crisp salad; leftovers are ready-made comfort for lunch or dinner.
Photo credit: elavegan.com
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18. Keto Chicken Meatball Casserole
Looking for a low-carb comfort dish? This keto chicken meatball casserole blends ground chicken, shredded zucchini, canned pumpkin, marinara sauce, and cheese into a cozy, family-style bake.
Each meatball is tender and juicy, thanks to zucchini and pumpkin adding moisture without carbs.
Baked in a sauce-smeared dish, then sprinkled with mozzarella or Parmesan, it’s hearty and satisfying. You get savory, creamy, and slightly sweet flavor layers in every bite.
Pro tip: shape the meatballs evenly using a cookie scoop, then bake with sauce for easy cleanup.
Serve over zucchini noodles or alongside a salad for a keto-friendly dinner. And yes—leftovers heat beautifully, making it ideal for meal prepping or quick weekday meals.
Photo credit: divaliciousrecipes.com
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19. Pumpkin Quesadillas with Lime‑Jalapeño Yogurt
Here’s a savory–sweet twist on dinner: pumpkin quesadillas packed with melty cheese and served with a zesty lime‑jalapeño yogurt dip. It’s fast, fun, and bursting with fall flavors.
Inside warm tortillas, canned pumpkin blends with cream cheese or cheddar and spices, then grilled until golden-crisp.
The quesadillas balance sweet, smoky pumpkin with gooey cheese and crunchy tortillas. The yogurt dip, made with Greek yogurt, lime, jalapeño, garlic, and cilantro, brightens each bite with tang and heat.
Pro tip: roast leftover pumpkin in the oven before using for depth of flavor. These quesadillas are perfect for casual dinners, lunch boxes, or potluck snacks. Serve with a side of pico de gallo or a simple green salad for balance.
Photo credit: thekitchn.com
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20. Mini No‑Bake Pumpkin Cheesecakes
Need a quick yet fancy dessert? These mini no‑bake pumpkin cheesecakes layer creamy pumpkin-spiced filling on a buttery graham-cracker crust—no oven required.
Each cheesecake is smooth, cold, and filled with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
The crust offers crunch, while the filling melts on the tongue. Chilling them sets everything into perfect mini dessert form.
Chef tip: pipe the cheesecake filling into jars or cups for a beautiful presentation. You can customize toppings—think chocolate chips, salted caramel drizzle, or pumpkin seeds.
They’re ideal for holiday gatherings, make-ahead treats, or anytime you want dessert without heating up the kitchen.
Photo credit: brokenovenbaking.com
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21. Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats
Ever wish your breakfast felt like dessert? These overnight oats start with canned pumpkin and Greek yogurt, soak up chia seeds and oats, then chill overnight for a thick, creamy start to your day. They’re like a healthy slice of pumpkin pie you can eat from a jar.
The texture is satisfying—rich and smooth with tiny chia pop and tender oats. The flavor hits are pure fall: pumpkin spice warmth paired with a natural sweetness from maple syrup.
The Greek yogurt adds protein and tang, so it never feels heavy.
Pro tip: double the batch and refrigerate for grab‑and‑go mornings. Top it off when serving with pecans, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a dollop of whipped cream for weekend indulgence.
Whether post‑workout or all‑weekmeal prep, this breakfast nails that balance of cozy and healthy.
Photo credit: ambitiouskitchen.com
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22. Pumpkin Protein Cookie Energy Bites
Looking for snack-time fuel with fall flair? These pumpkin protein bite cookies blend canned pumpkin with oats, almond butter, protein powder, chia, flaxseed—and yes, chocolate chips—for a nutrient-packed, no‑bake treat.
The texture is dense and chewy with occasional crunch from chia and flax. Each bite packs about 5 grams of protein, making them ideal before or after workouts, or as a grab-and-go pick-me-up. And those chocolate chips? They add pops of sweet delight.
Simple to make and freezer-friendly, they’re perfect for meal prep. Use your favorite protein powder—vanilla brings warmth, chocolate adds richness.
Or skip the chips and add dried cranberries. Store them in the fridge for snacks all week, or freeze a stack for anytime you crave a healthy pumpkin mash‑up.
Photo credit: eatingbirdfood.com
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23. Pumpkin Brownie Cookie Balls
Imagine the fudgy intensity of brownies tucked into bite-size pumpkin‑spiced cookie balls. These no‑bake delights mix pumpkin, cocoa, oats, and spices into rich, chewy balls that taste like autumn in dessert form
Each ball is dense with deep chocolate flavor and warmed with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. They feel decadent yet wholesome—no refined sugar, and easy to roll together in minutes. Stick them in the fridge to set, then enjoy as a guilt-free treat.
Pro tip: roll them in crushed nuts, cocoa powder, or a dark chocolate drizzle for texture.
They’re perfect for lunchboxes, potlucks, or sneaking a sweet bite after dinner. These little wonders make fall snacking feel indulgent without the fuss.
Photo credit: onceuponapumpkinrd.com
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Conclusion
So… who knew canned pumpkin had this many tricks up its sleeve? After trying these 23 best canned pumpkin recipes, you’ll never look at that little orange can the same way again.
Savory, sweet, no-bake, cheesy, chocolaty—it’s all in the mix. These recipes make it easy to whip up fall flavor anytime, with pantry staples and a little creativity. Don’t be surprised if one becomes your new go-to.
If you found a favorite (or five), don’t forget to share, pin, or print it out. Because pumpkin season comes back every year—and trust me, you’ll want these recipes ready.
