There is something about coming home from a day at the pumpkin patch with a car full of pumpkins that makes fall feel officially here. We love the tradition of visiting an orchard, picking out the perfect pumpkins, taking in all the crisp autumn air and, of course, coming home with way more produce than we probably planned on. But once you have your pumpkins sitting on the kitchen counter, the question becomes: what are we actually going to make with them?
Pumpkins are one of those fall staples that can go far beyond your front porch. While we love using them for seasonal decor, certain pumpkins can also be turned into everything from cozy breakfasts to savory dinners and classic fall desserts. If you are planning an apple or pumpkin picking day this season, it is worth bringing home a few pumpkins specifically for cooking. Even pumpkin seeds can be baked and made as a great snack. What we love about pumpkins is that they can make sweet dishes and more savory pumpkin recipes as well. You don’t just get to carve fresh pumpkins, you can save a few to enjoy this time of year! It’s almost like a secret ingredient we all forget about.
One thing to keep in mind is that not every pumpkin is ideal for eating. If you are planning to cook with your pumpkins, look for smaller sugar pumpkins or pie pumpkins, which tend to have sweeter, more flavorful flesh than the large pumpkins typically used for carving. Once you have the right pumpkins, there are so many delicious ways to put them to work.
Here are 10 pumpkin recipes we are adding to our fall baking and cooking list this year during pumpkin season.
Classic Pumpkin Bread
You really cannot have a fall baking list without pumpkin bread. It is cozy, easy to make and the kind of recipe that works for breakfast, an afternoon snack or a little something sweet with coffee. We love the idea of making a classic loaf with freshly roasted pumpkin and plenty of warm fall spices. This is perfect for a Halloween party, since it’s the seasonal ingredient. A little maple cream could be a great addition to this classic dish.
Homemade Pumpkin Soup
When the temperatures finally start to drop, pumpkin soup is exactly what we want for dinner. A creamy pumpkin soup makes the perfect cozy weeknight meal, especially when served with crusty bread or a grilled cheese. Look for a recipe with garlic, onion, warming spices and plenty of roasted pumpkin for maximum fall flavor. If you have any fall dinner parties or need a fun addition to Thanksgiving, this is it!
Pumpkin Pancakes
Weekend breakfast gets a seasonal upgrade with pumpkin pancakes. They are a fun way to use leftover pumpkin puree and can easily become a family favorite throughout October and November. Add cinnamon, nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice and top with maple syrup for the ultimate fall breakfast.
Pumpkin Risotto
If you want something a little more elevated, pumpkin risotto is at the top of our list. The creamy rice pairs beautifully with the slightly sweet flavor of pumpkin, and you can add parmesan, sage or crispy prosciutto to make it a full dinner. It is also a great option for entertaining because it feels special without being overly complicated.
Pumpkin Muffins
Pumpkin muffins are one of those recipes we want to have on hand all season long. They are easy to grab on busy school mornings and can be made with everything from chocolate chips to streusel topping. We especially love a classic pumpkin muffin with plenty of cinnamon and a bakery-style crumb topping.
Pumpkin Pasta
Pumpkin does not have to stay in the dessert category. A creamy pumpkin pasta sauce is a delicious way to turn your orchard haul into a cozy fall dinner. Pair pumpkin with parmesan, sage, garlic and your favorite pasta shape for a seasonal meal that feels comforting without being too heavy.
Pumpkin Cheesecake
For a Thanksgiving preview, pumpkin cheesecake is always a good idea. It combines the flavors of classic pumpkin pie with the creamy texture of cheesecake and makes a beautiful dessert for fall gatherings. If you are already thinking about your holiday menu, this is one recipe worth testing early.
Pumpkin Spice Cookies
We love a good pumpkin cookie for fall baking days. Think soft, chewy cookies filled with pumpkin, cinnamon and pumpkin spice, with an optional cream cheese frosting or drizzle on top. They are also a fun recipe to make with kids because there are plenty of opportunities for decorating.
Pumpkin Chili
Pumpkin can even make its way into your favorite comfort-food recipes. This chili is hearty, warming and perfect for a chilly fall night. The pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness and creamy texture that works surprisingly well with beans, tomatoes, peppers and traditional chili spices.
Pumpkin Pie
And, of course, we had to finish with the ultimate fall classic: pumpkin pie. If you picked your own pumpkins this year, making a homemade pumpkin pie from scratch is such a fun way to make your orchard trip part of your Thanksgiving table. Serve it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream and you have the perfect ending to a fall dinner.
For more recipe ideas, visit here!
