Calling all pumpkin and pumpkin spice lovers! It's that time of year so get ready for a variety of pumpkin recipes from soup to protein shakes to muffins, pancakes and more!
When the leaves begin to turn and there’s a chill in the air, pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice recipes give you that cozy feeling you crave when the seasons change.
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Seasonal Pumpkin Spice Recipes
The smooth richness of pumpkin puree combined with the warm blend of aromatic spices in pumpkin pie spice gives us comfort in every bite.
From breakfast to dessert to snacks, drinks and soup, here are a variety of ways to enjoy that comforting pumpkin flavor.
Guaranteed to become your new seasonal favorite recipes, make one, two or all of them and learn all about pumpkin and pumpkin spice too!
Pumpkin and Pumpkin Pie Spice
When fall rolls around, pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice become the stars on menus and in kitchens everywhere.
From lattes and baked goods to soups and syrups, these two ingredients capture the cozy, comforting essence of the season.
But what exactly is pumpkin pie spice, and how is it different from pure pumpkin purée?
Let’s take a closer look at what makes these fall favorites so special and how you can use them in both sweet and savory recipes.
What Is Pumpkin Pie Spice?
Pumpkin pie spice is an aromatic combination of warm spices that instantly conjures up thoughts of seasonal comfort.
This classic spice blend is made from common baking spices such as cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, and sometimes it has a hint of allspice that can add another layer of depth.
And did you know that pumpkin pie spice doesn’t actually contain any pumpkin?
It is the spice blend traditionally used to flavor classic pumpkin pies, hence the name pumpkin pie spice.
This beloved seasoning fills your kitchen with a beautiful aroma that warms the heart when you bake muffins, cookies, a pumpkin loaf and more.
You can control the amounts of spices and make your own homemade pumpkin pie spice!
Uses for Pumpkin Pie Spice
Pumpkin pie spice is so versatile and can be used in both sweet and savory recipes.
Here are some popular ways to use this spice blend for a hint of fall flavor:
- Sprinkle it into a hot cup of coffee to start your morning
- Make a pumpkin spice latte
- Stir it into pancake and waffle batters
- Season quick breads, cookies, pies, and cakes
- Toss with pumpkin seeds before roasting them
There are also some unexpected ways to use this seasoning, such as:
- Add a pinch to roasted sweet potatoes
- Stir into your morning oatmeal or yogurt
- To season creamy soups for a touch of warmth
- Sprinkle on chicken or beef for a hint of sweetness
- Added to whipped cream for seasonal flavor
I love making a batch of my homemade pumpkin spice to kick off the season. I store it in a small mason jar and am always reaching for it to sprinkle on foods and drinks to add instant coziness and warmth!
What Is Pure Pumpkin Purée?
Pure pumpkin purée is just cooked and mashed pumpkin. No added spices or seasonings, just 100% pure pumpkin that has been pureed.
It is smooth and creamy, and naturally sweet with a deep orange color that adds richness to recipes.
Now don’t confuse pumpkin puree with pumpkin pie filling. Both are canned products but they are not the same.
Pumpkin pie filling includes added sugars and spices and pure pumpkin purée does not.
The beauty of pumpkin puree is that you can control the flavor of your recipe and add whatever spices and sweetener you want your recipe to have.
Canned pumpkin puree is most commonly used for its convenience, but you can also make homemade pumpkin puree at home from fresh pumpkin.
When purchasing pumpkin puree just be sure it is 100% pure pumpkin puree with nothing added.
Uses for Pumpkin Purée
Pumpkin purée is an amazing ingredient that adds texture, moisture and hint of sweetness to everything.
Pumpkin puree is commonly used to make:
- Tender muffins
- Moist quick breads
- Flavorful pancakes
- Seasonal cookies
Other ways to use this versatile puree include:
- Stirring it into or using it as the base for soups
- As a seasonal pasta sauce such as pumpkin curry sauce
- For adding a creamy consistency, color and flavor to risotto
- Blending into smoothies and shakes
- Stirred into oatmeal
- Layered in parfaits for a boost of flavor and color
Pumpkin purée adds comfort and flavor to any recipe with its mild taste and smooth texture.
Combining Pumpkin and Spice Together
When you combine pure pumpkin purée with pumpkin pie spice, you get the ultimate flavor combination of fall.
Together, they create the magic behind so many seasonal favorites such as pumpkin spice pancakes, creamy pumpkin soup, and even homemade pumpkin spice lattes.
Whether you’re baking, blending, or making something savory, this pumpkin combination will fill your kitchen with warmth, seasonal flavor and cozy comfort.
Pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice are the essence of autumn cooking and baking.
Pumpkin puree brings natural sweetness and a velvety texture, while pumpkin pie spice adds depth and warmth.
Together, they create that classic flavor we look forward to every year.
Keep both pumpkin pie spice and pumpkin puree on hand this season, and you’ll be ready to add that popular flavor combination to everything from breakfast to dessert.
Favorite Pumpkin Recipes
Pumpkin puree brings natural moisture, a mild sweetness and that deep, rich fall color. When you pair it with pumpkin pie spice you get the classic autumn flavor profile that is warm, aromatic and comforting.
These recipes show how delicious pumpkin can be from breakfast pancakes to savory soups, from decadent cookies to healthy protein shakes.
These recipes show how delicious pumpkin can be from breakfast pancakes to savory soups, from decadent cookies to healthy protein shakes.
1. Pumpkin Pancakes
These fluffy homemade Pumpkin Pancakes are flavored with real pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice for that unmistakable autumn feel. The batter is lightened with seltzer so they’re tender and airy.
Why you’ll love them - Balanced between mild sweetness and warming spice these pumpkin spice pancakes are simple enough for weekday mornings and special enough for a leisurely brunch on the weekend.
Tip - Serve with butter and maple syrup or pumpkin syrup. Add walnuts or pecans for crunch and texture.
2. Glazed Pumpkin Spice Muffins
Glazed Pumpkin Spice Muffins are moist muffins made with pumpkin puree and pumpkin-pie-spice are topped with a sweet sugar glaze for added sweetness. A terrific snack, brunch recipe, breakfast treat or even dessert.
What makes them special – The simple sugar glaze elevates the muffin beyond just an ordinary pumpkin muffin transforming it into something a bit more indulgent.
Variation idea - Stir in chopped pecans or top with a maple glaze.
GLAZED PUMPKIN SPICE MUFFINS RECIPE
3. Pumpkin Spice Syrup
This easy homemade Pumpkin Spice Syrup blends pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice into a versatile sauce you can drizzle on or stir into drinks, on pancakes or desserts.
Use it for - Pancakes or waffles, coffee, lattes or cocktails, yogurt or oatmeal, on cakes or French toast
Storage tip - Refrigerate in a jar for up to about 3 weeks and shake before using
PUMPKIN SPICE SIMPLE SYRUP RECIPE
4. Pumpkin Cheesecake Cookies
These jumbo Pumpkin Cookies combine pumpkin puree and pumpkin‐pie‐spice in the cookie dough, and then are topped with a creamy cheesecake‐style frosting. A fun dessert or snack that feels festive and fancy.
Why they’re a hit - Soft, spiced cookie combines with decadent frosting making these gourmet cookies great for fall gatherings or sharing.
Substitution tip - Use your favorite cream cheese or a fat free version if you want to lighten it up.
PUMPKIN CHEESECAKE COOKIES RECIPES
5. Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread
This Pumpkin Quick Bread mixes pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice with generous chocolate chunks. Moist, cake-like, and perfect with tea or coffee.
Best for - Breakfast slices, snack time, or even dessert with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Pro tip - Reserve some chocolate chunks to press lightly onto the top before baking for extra melty goodness.
CHOCOLATE CHIP PUMPKIN BREAD RECIPE
6. Pumpkin Spice Protein Shake
This Pumpkin Protein Shake recipe is an on-the-go pumpkin option made with pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla protein powder, maple syrup, milk and ice. A creamy smoothie packed with fall flavor and a protein boost.
Why it works - Gives you pumpkin flavor without being a dessert. It is ideal for breakfast or post-workout.
Customize it - Use your favorite plant-based milk, add frozen banana, or top with pumpkin-seed granola for texture.
PUMPKIN SPICE PROTEIN SHAKE RECIPE
7. Creamy Pumpkin Soup
Creamy Pumpkin Soup is a savory twist on pumpkin. This silky soup made with pumpkin puree, coconut milk, fresh ginger and pumpkin-pie‐spice is a delicious addition to holiday menus. Cozy and satisfying, this soup is a bowl of comfort.
Perfect for - A fall or holiday dinner starter, weeknight comfort food, or even a light main meal with crusty bread.
Variation - Substitute heavy cream for a richer soup. Top with roasted pumpkin seeds for crunch.
8. Homemade Pumpkin Spice Ice Cream
Satisfy those pumpkin cravings with this easy to make no-churn Pumpkin Ice Cream that blends pumpkin puree, brown sugar and pumpkin pie spice into creamy frozen goodness.
Why it’s special - Ice cream meets autumn spice. It’s always a good time for ice cream.
Fun twist - Add mini chocolate chips, crushed gingersnap cookies or chocolate shavings on top.
PUMPKIN SPICE ICE CREAM RECIPE
9. Iced Pumpkin Spiced Latte
Skip the expensive coffee shop and make your own Iced Pumpkin Spiced Latte, a popular seasonal drink, at home. Combine espresso or strong coffee blended with pumpkin puree, maple syrup, vanilla, pumpkin-pie-spice over ice. Top it with whipped cream, a drizzle of pumpkin syrup or foam topping for that café feel.
Why you’ll want it - Skip the coffee-shop line, save money and create this seasonal favorite in your own kitchen.
Serving tip - Use chilled or room temperature coffee so the ice doesn’t water it down or use ice cubes made with leftover coffee. Garnish with a little extra spice.
10. Pumpkin Spice Buttercream Frosting
A warm spiced Pumpkin Buttercream made with pumpkin-pie-spice is the perfect topping for cupcakes, cakes, cookies or even pumpkin quick bread.
Why it’s great - Adds fall flavor without changing the texture of your baked goods. A versatile frosting.
Use it on - Pumpkin bread, chocolate cupcakes, cookies, the possibilities are endless.
11. Pumpkin Spice Creamer
Homemade Pumpkin Spiced Creamer blends milk, cream, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and pumpkin pie spice into a rich, velvety addition for your morning coffee. It’s creamy, cozy, and brings coffee shop flavor right to your kitchen.
Why you’ll love it – Now you can make your own seasonal creamer with real ingredients and customizable sweetness.
Storage tip – Keep refrigerated in a sealed jar or bottle for up to one week. Shake well before each use.
12. Cheesecake Pumpkin Pie
This luscious dessert, Cheesecake Pumpkin Pie, combines two favorites, creamy cheesecake and classic pumpkin pie, for the ultimate holiday dessert. Smooth, spiced pumpkin filling sits atop a rich cream cheese layer in a buttery crust.
Why it’s a showstopper – This layered pie is the perfect balance of tangy cheesecake and sweet pumpkin pie, making it a crowd-pleasing pie for Thanksgiving or any fall celebration.
Pro tip – Chill completely before slicing for the best texture and clean layers.
13. Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew
Cold brew coffee gets a seasonal upgrade with a frothy pumpkin cream topping made from pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, vanilla, and a touch of sweetness. Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew is a starbucks copycat recipe that will be your favorite drink of the season!
Why it’s refreshing – You get the bold, smooth flavor of cold brew coffee balanced with a creamy pumpkin-spiced foam. It’s the perfect iced drink for fall mornings or afternoons.
Make it your own – Adjust the spice level or make it with oat milk for a dairy-free option.
PUMPKIN CREAM COLD BREW RECIPE
14. Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
These creamy Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars start with a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a smooth pumpkin spice filling, and a hint of vanilla. They’re portable, easy to serve, and will quickly become a family favorite dessert.
Why they’re a favorite – These pumpkin bars have all the flavor of pumpkin cheesecake in a convenient bar form. Great for parties, lunch box dessert, or whenever you want a little fall indulgence.
Serving idea – Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon before serving.
PUMPKIN CHEESECAKE BARS RECIPE
15. Homemade Pumpkin Pie Spice
This simple homemade blend of cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves captures the essence of fall in a jar. DIY Pumpkin Pie Spice is perfect for baking, drinks, and all your seasonal recipes.
Why you’ll want to make it – Freshly mixed spices are more aromatic and flavorful than store-bought blends, and you can adjust the ratios to suit your taste.
Storage tip – Keep in an airtight spice jar in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
HOMEMADE PUMPKIN PIE SPICE RECIPE
In Conclusion
Embrace pumpkin season with these delightful ways to bring pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice into your kitchen and onto your table.
Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty pumpkin bread, a creamy drink, a savory soup or a sweet treat, there’s something here for everyone.
Select your favorites, mix and match, and celebrate pumpkin season with every bite and spoonful of seasonal flavor.
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