Our Best Pumpkin Desserts

Fall is the perfect time to enjoy the warm, spicy flavors of pumpkin desserts. As the weather cools down, these sweet treats bring comfort and nostalgia to your kitchen.

The scent of pumpkin spice fills your home with the essence of autumn.

You’ll find endless possibilities when it comes to creating delicious pumpkin desserts. From classic pumpkin pie to innovative cheesecakes, cookies, and cinnamon rolls, there’s a pumpkin dessert recipe perfect for your fall baking adventures.

These recipes typically use canned pumpkin, making them accessible and easy to prepare.

Whether you prefer traditional flavors or want to experiment with unique combinations like pumpkin and cream cheese, there’s a pumpkin dessert recipe perfect for your fall baking adventures.

1. Pumpkin Crumb Cake

Pumpkin crumb cake combines the best of fall flavors in one delicious treat. It features a moist, spiced pumpkin cake layer topped with a generous amount of buttery crumb topping.

The cake gets its wonderful texture and flavor from pumpkin puree, seasonal spices, and sometimes pure maple syrup. These ingredients create a soft, flavorful base that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert.

What makes this cake special is the thick layer of cinnamon-sugar crumble on top. Some recipes add chopped nuts like walnuts to the topping for extra crunch and flavor.

You can enjoy this versatile cake with morning coffee or as an after-dinner dessert during fall gatherings.

2. Chiffon Pumpkin Pie

Chiffon pumpkin pie offers a lighter, fluffier alternative to traditional pumpkin pie. This airy dessert combines the familiar fall spices with a mousse-like texture that melts in your mouth.

The secret to its cloud-like consistency is the addition of gelatin and whipped egg whites folded into the pumpkin mixture. You’ll taste all the warm cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg flavors you love, but in a less dense form.

This pie makes an impressive Thanksgiving dessert that guests will remember. The light texture provides a welcome contrast to heavier holiday foods, making it the perfect end to your fall feast.

3. Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Pumpkin chocolate chip cookies combine the warm flavors of fall with sweet chocolate morsels. These treats are known for their chewy, cake-like texture that makes them irresistible.

The recipe typically includes pumpkin puree, oil, sugar, vanilla, and an egg, along with semi-sweet chocolate chips. Most versions also include warm spices that complement the pumpkin flavor perfectly.

You can make these cookies with no mixer or chill time required. One batch yields about three dozen cookies, making them perfect for fall parties or tailgates.

These bakery-style cookies feature a gooey center with melty chocolate chips. They’re a fun twist on traditional chocolate chip cookies that brings cozy autumn flavors to a classic treat.

4. Pumpkin Cheesecake with Ginger Snap Crust

This dessert combines the best of both worlds: creamy cheesecake and fall’s favorite flavor. The rich, fluffy texture of the pumpkin-spiced filling pairs perfectly with the crunchy gingersnap crust.

You’ll love how the warm pumpkin spices blend with the tangy cream cheese. The ginger-forward crust adds a spicy contrast that balances the sweetness of the filling.

For the crust, you’ll need gingersnap cookie crumbs, some brown sugar, and melted butter. Some recipes add ground nuts like hazelnuts or pecans for extra texture and flavor.

This impressive dessert is perfect for holidays or special occasions when you want to impress your guests.

5. Pumpkin Delight Dessert

Pumpkin Delight is a stunning layered dessert that offers a delicious alternative to traditional pumpkin pie. It features a crunchy pecan crust as its foundation, making for a pleasant textural contrast.

The dessert builds upward with creamy layers of pumpkin, cream cheese, and whipped cream. Many versions are completely no-bake, so you can make this impressive treat without turning on your oven.

The combination of light, airy texture and rich pumpkin pie flavor makes this a standout fall dessert. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings when you want something special that isn’t the usual pumpkin pie.

6. Pumpkin Bread with Maple Buttercream

Pumpkin bread with maple buttercream combines two fall favorites into one delicious treat. This bread features a moist, tender texture filled with pumpkin puree and warming spices.

The star of this dessert is the fluffy maple buttercream that tops the bread. Made with softened butter, pumpkin, vanilla, and cinnamon, this frosting adds sweetness that perfectly complements the spiced bread beneath.

You’ll find it difficult to eat just one slice of this delightful combination. The rich pumpkin flavor pairs wonderfully with the sweet maple notes in the buttercream, creating a balanced dessert that’s perfect for autumn gatherings.

7. Iced Pumpkin Cookies

Iced pumpkin cookies are a fall favorite that combines soft, fluffy cookies with sweet icing. These treats are perfectly spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for that classic autumn flavor.

The cookies themselves are made with canned pumpkin, which gives them their signature softness and moisture. They have a cake-like texture that melts in your mouth.

What makes these cookies special is the sweet vanilla cinnamon icing drizzled on top. This finishing touch adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the spices.

You can easily make these at home for a cozy fall treat that everyone will love. They’re perfect with a cup of hot apple cider or coffee.

8. Four-Layer Pumpkin Delight

Four-Layer Pumpkin Delight is a show-stopping dessert that combines various textures and flavors. It starts with a crunchy pecan crust that adds a wonderful nutty base to the dessert.

The second layer is a creamy cream cheese mixture that provides a tangy contrast to the sweetness. Next comes the pumpkin pudding layer, typically made with pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice for that classic fall flavor.

The dessert is completed with a fluffy whipped cream topping. You can make this dessert ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve, making it perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners.

9. Pumpkin Muffins with Cream Cheese Filling

Pumpkin muffins with cream cheese filling combine two amazing flavors in one delicious treat. The moist, spiced pumpkin muffin pairs perfectly with a sweet cream cheese center.

These muffins are surprisingly easy to make. You’ll need canned pumpkin, cream cheese, and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Some recipes add cardamom for extra flavor.

The cream cheese filling melts slightly during baking, creating a creamy surprise inside each muffin. For an extra touch, try adding a brown sugar crumb topping.

Ready in about 30 minutes, these muffins make a perfect fall breakfast or snack. They taste similar to the popular Starbucks version but are fresher when homemade.

10. Classic Pumpkin Pie

There’s a reason classic pumpkin pie remains a fall favorite year after year. This smooth and creamy dessert brings together the perfect balance of pumpkin flavor with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

A good pumpkin pie has a slightly firm texture that still feels silky on your tongue. The filling should be rich but not too sweet, allowing the natural pumpkin flavor to shine through.

Serve your pie with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for the perfect finishing touch. For an extra special presentation, consider dusting the top with a little cinnamon or adding a sprinkle of crushed pecans around the edge.

11. Pumpkin Donuts

Pumpkin donuts are a perfect fall treat that combines the warmth of pumpkin spice with the comfort of a fluffy donut. You can make them baked or fried, depending on your preference.

The baked version is easier for home cooks and healthier too. Made with real pumpkin puree and warm spices like cinnamon, these donuts are soft, moist, and incredibly flavorful.

Many recipes feature a delicious topping such as cinnamon sugar coating or brown sugar icing that complements the pumpkin flavor perfectly.

You can enjoy these as a special breakfast or a sweet afternoon snack with coffee. The simple ingredients are typically pantry staples, making this a convenient treat to whip up when pumpkin cravings strike.

12. Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pumpkin bars offer the perfect fall dessert with their soft, moist texture and warm spices. They’re essentially a sheet cake that’s easy to cut into portable squares.

These treats feature a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and other seasonal spices mixed into a pumpkin batter. They bake up fluffy and light in a jelly roll pan at 350°F.

What makes these bars special is the thick layer of tangy cream cheese frosting spread on top. The contrast between the spiced pumpkin base and creamy topping creates an irresistible combination.

You’ll find these bars are always a crowd-pleaser at autumn gatherings. They’re simpler to make than pumpkin pie but deliver all those beloved fall flavors.

13. Pumpkin Spice Latte Cake

This delicious cake transforms your favorite fall beverage into a mouthwatering dessert. It combines the warm flavors of pumpkin spice with hints of espresso for a truly autumnal treat.

The cake features a moist pumpkin-spiced base enriched with cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Many recipes use coconut oil for added richness and moisture.

What makes this cake special is the espresso buttercream frosting that perfectly complements the pumpkin flavors. You can make this as a single-layer cake for simplicity or create a layered version for special occasions.

This dessert is perfect for coffee lovers who also enjoy seasonal pumpkin treats. It’s an ideal addition to your fall baking lineup.

14. Pumpkin Roll with Cream Cheese Swirl

The pumpkin roll with cream cheese swirl is a classic fall dessert that looks fancy but is simpler than you might think. This treat features a soft spiced pumpkin cake rolled around a thick layer of cream cheese frosting.

To make this dessert, you’ll need ingredients like pumpkin puree, cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and butter. The key to success is rolling the cake while it’s still warm and then letting it cool in that shape.

Two important tips ensure your pumpkin roll turns out perfectly: use parchment paper to help with the rolling process, and don’t overbake the cake. When done right, you’ll have a beautiful spiral of pumpkin cake and cream cheese that slices beautifully.

15. Pumpkin S’mores Bars

Pumpkin S’mores Bars blend the cozy flavors of fall with classic campfire treats. These gooey dessert bars feature a soft, chewy pumpkin cookie base that’s warmly spiced.

The bars are layered with marshmallow fluff that gets perfectly toasty in the oven. Dark chocolate chips or chunks melt into the mix, creating that signature s’mores experience.

To make these treats, you’ll need pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, marshmallow fluff, and chocolate chips. The recipe is straightforward and can be made gluten-free with simple substitutions.

These bars make an excellent fall dessert when you want something beyond traditional pumpkin pie.

16. Maple Pumpkin Cheesecake

Maple Pumpkin Cheesecake combines two favorite fall flavors into one smooth, creamy dessert. This delightful treat features a graham cracker or gingersnap crust as its base.

The filling blends canned pumpkin, maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg with sweetened condensed milk for a perfectly balanced flavor. Some versions include a maple pecan glaze on top for extra sweetness and crunch.

You can find this dessert in both traditional round form and as convenient bars that you can eat with your hands. It makes an excellent addition to any holiday spread, serving about 10 people per cake.

17. Pumpkin Walnut Bread

Pumpkin walnut bread combines the warm flavors of fall in a moist, delicious loaf. The mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves creates a perfectly spiced treat that’s hard to resist.

The recipe is simple to follow and yields excellent results every time. You can make extra loaves to freeze for later or share with friends and family.

The nutty crunch of walnuts adds wonderful texture and complements the soft pumpkin bread. Some recipes include raisins for extra sweetness and chew.

This bread makes a great breakfast, snack, or dessert. It’s especially perfect during autumn but can be enjoyed year-round when you’re craving cozy flavors.

18. Pumpkin Spice Blondies

Pumpkin spice blondies combine the chewy texture of a classic blondie with warm fall flavors. These treats are thick, soft, and have the perfect hint of pumpkin spice in every bite.

Many recipes include chocolate chips that melt slightly into the batter, creating pockets of sweetness throughout. For extra flavor, some versions use browned butter which adds a nutty undertone.

These blondies are easy to make and don’t always require flour, making them a potential option for those with certain dietary restrictions. When you bake a batch, don’t be surprised if they disappear quickly – they’re known to be irresistible fall treats.

19. Pumpkin Souffle with Caramel Drizzle

Pumpkin Souffle with Caramel Drizzle is a light and airy dessert that will impress your dinner guests. This elegant treat combines the warm flavors of pumpkin pie spice with the delicate texture of a perfectly risen souffle.

The secret to a great pumpkin souffle is whipping the egg whites to just the right consistency. You’ll want soft peaks that fold easily into your pumpkin mixture without deflating.

Top your warm souffle with a homemade caramel drizzle for a sweet finish. The contrast between the light, fluffy souffle and the rich, buttery caramel creates a delightful fall dessert experience.

20. Pumpkin Pecan Pie

Pumpkin pecan pie combines two favorite fall desserts into one incredible treat. This dessert features a rich pumpkin filling on the bottom and a sweet, caramelized pecan topping.

The contrast between the spiced pumpkin layer and the buttery, crunchy pecans creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. Some versions include maple in the pumpkin filling for extra depth.

You can make this as a traditional pie with a flaky crust or as bars with a shortbread base. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings when you can’t decide between pumpkin or pecan pie.

For a special touch, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

21. Pumpkin Spice Whoopie Pies

Pumpkin whoopie pies combine cake-like pumpkin cookies with creamy fillings for a delightful fall treat. These soft sandwich cookies feature real pumpkin puree and warm spices.

You can enjoy these treats as single cookies or pair them with various fillings. Popular options include cream cheese frosting, vanilla buttercream, or marshmallow cream cheese filling.

The cookies themselves have a pillowy texture that’s moist and flavorful. They’re easy to make and perfect for autumn gatherings.

For extra flavor, try a brown butter cream cheese frosting or salted maple buttercream. These complement the pumpkin spices beautifully.

Benefits of Pumpkin in Desserts

Pumpkin adds incredible value to desserts beyond just seasonal flavor. This versatile ingredient packs nutrition while enhancing texture and taste in your favorite sweet treats.

Nutritional Advantages

Pumpkin is surprisingly nutritious compared to many dessert ingredients. It’s packed with vitamin A, which supports eye health and immune function. A single serving provides over 200% of your daily vitamin A needs!

Pumpkin also delivers vitamins C and E, which act as antioxidants in your body. These nutrients help fight inflammation and protect cells from damage.

The fiber content in pumpkin helps you feel fuller longer, making your desserts more satisfying. With only about 50 calories per cup of pure pumpkin, it’s a low-calorie way to add moisture and substance to recipes.

Pumpkin contains potassium, which helps maintain healthy blood pressure. It also provides iron and calcium for additional nutritional benefits.

Unique Flavor Profile

Pumpkin brings a distinct earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with warm spices. Its subtle natural sweetness means you can often reduce added sugar in recipes.

The creamy texture of pumpkin creates rich, moist desserts without needing extra fat. This makes it perfect for lighter versions of traditional treats like cakes and cookies.

Pumpkin absorbs other flavors well, especially cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves. These classic pairings create the comforting taste people associate with fall baking.

You can use pumpkin in diverse desserts beyond pie—from cheesecakes to muffins, cookies, and even ice cream. Its versatility allows for both starring and supporting roles in your recipes.

Incorporating Pumpkin Into Baking

Adding pumpkin to your baking creates moist, flavorful treats that capture the essence of fall. The right preparation techniques and flavor combinations will help you achieve the best results in your pumpkin desserts.

Choosing the Right Pumpkin

When baking with pumpkin, you have two main options: fresh pumpkin or canned pumpkin puree.

Canned pumpkin puree offers convenience and consistency, making it ideal for most recipes. If you choose to use fresh pumpkin, select smaller sugar pumpkins or pie pumpkins rather than large carving varieties.

To prepare fresh pumpkin, cut it in half, remove the seeds, and roast until tender. Then scoop out the flesh and puree it until smooth. Strain the puree through a cheesecloth to remove excess moisture, as too much liquid can make your baked goods soggy.

Fresh vs. Canned Comparison:

Type	Pros	Cons
Canned	Consistent texture, convenient	Less natural flavor
Fresh	Rich flavor, no additives	Time-consuming, variable moisture

Balancing Spices and Ingredients

Pumpkin has a subtle flavor that pairs beautifully with warm spices. Cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves are traditional companions, often combined as pumpkin pie spice. Don’t overpower the pumpkin – start with 1-2 teaspoons of spice mix per cup of pumpkin.

When adding pumpkin to batters, reduce other wet ingredients to maintain proper consistency. For each cup of pumpkin puree, decrease liquid ingredients by about ¼ cup.

Pumpkin pairs well with: