The cooler weather is upon up and there is nothing better this time of year, than these Deliciously Easy Pumpkin Recipes!
Pumpkin is my favorite seasonal ingredient! It works perfectly in sweet and savory dishes, and its a staple at family dinners all season long. The flavor is so cozy and comforting, pumpkin becomes my most sought-after ingredient during the autumn season.
Pumpkin recipes aren’t the only delicious and easy seasonal autumn recipes. These Oven Baked Orange Cranberry Bars and Buttermilk Cranberry Cake are also a hit this time of year!
Easy Pumpkin Recipes
Whether you source your pumpkin puree from your garden or the grocery store, these recipes are bound to become family favorites throughout the holiday season! Homemade pumpkin puree has authentic and robust flavors, that will elevate your dishes. It provides memorable meals and desserts for years to come.
Pumpkin Pie Recipes
Probably the most iconic and beloved of pumpkin recipes are that of pie! Pumpkin pies are a staple on dinner tables everywhere during the holidays, Thanksgiving being the most popular. The classic Pumpkin Pie is always a fan favorite, but it is so fun to add a couple twists!
Pumpkin Cookie Recipes
Runner-up for the most iconic pumpkin recipes would be that of pumpkin cookies. Perfect for cozy nights in and so easy to make, cookies are the most popular option with kids and for sharing during the holiday season.
Whether you’re enjoying them with a glass of milk or packing them for a fall picnic, pumpkin cookies are a delicious choice to add a touch of seasonal magic to any occasion.
Pumpkin Cake Recipes
Pumpkin puree adds a subtle earthy sweetness and moisture to any cake recipe. Whether incorporated into a cheesecake, a magic cake, or a simple sheet cake, the addition of pumpkin adds depth to the flavor profile. Plus, spices like cinnamon and nutmeg typically paired with pumpkin create a cozy, comforting dessert perfect for autumn gatherings.
Breakfast Pumpkin Recipes
Pumpkin isn’t just reserved for dessert; it also makes a delightful addition to breakfast recipes. Incorporating pumpkin into your morning meal give it the warm and comforting flavors of fall. Whether you’re making pumpkin pancakes, waffles, or a simple bake, the pumpkin brings a unique twist to breakfast classics.
How To Make Your Own Pumpkin Puree
If you choose to grow your own pumpkins at home, or just want to experiment by making your own puree, here is an easy way to make your own pumpkin puree at home to use in all of your favorite cozy, seasonal holiday recipes!
Despite what you may think, not all pumpkins will work for baking tasty treats. To make homemade pumpkin puree to store and bake with, you will need a Pie Pumpkin, also known as a Sugar Pumpkin.
- Cut the Pie Pumpkin in half vertically with a sharp knife, and remove the pulp and seeds from the center with a spoon (set aside the seeds for roasting!).
- Roast the pumpkin halves on a baking sheet, cut side down in a 375°F (190°C) oven until tender.
- Allow the roasted pumpkin to cool slightly after roasting, and use a spoon to scrape the flesh away from the skin.
- Puree the scraped pumpkin in a food processor or blender, scraping down the sides to get uniform consistancy.
- You can either use it immediately for baking, store it in the fridge, or store in the freezer for longer term storage.
If you choose to store it, be sure to use an air-tight container. When stored properly, homemade pumpkin puree should last up to 5 days in the fridge, and up to 12 months in the freezer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Any Pumpkin To Make Homemade Puree?
Technically yes, but the puree will turn out more bitter and watery than you expect. The more traditional and recommended route is to use a Pie Pumpkin, or Sugar Pumpkin.
A Pie Pumpkin is favored for baking over larger carving pumpkins due to its sweeter and smoother flesh with less moisture. This results in a denser, less watery puree, to create the preferred texture and flavor in baked goods. Pie Pumpkins are also traditionally picked for baking, because it offers consistent and reliable results for pumpkin pies, cakes, and other desserts.
How Do I Keep Pumpkin Desserts From Being Too Runny?
If you are using a homemade pumpkin puree, it is easiest to strain the extra moisture out with a cheesecloth, or fine-mesh sieve to prevent extra liquid being added to the recipe. If this is not the case or you are using canned pumpkin, try adding more egg if the recipe allows!
What Is The Difference Between Canned Pumpkin And Pumpkin Puree?
Canned pumpkin and pumpkin puree are essentially the same thing, and they are frequently used interchangeably in recipes. Occasionally, you might encounter the term “solid-pack pumpkin,” but rest assured, all these terms signify pure, steamed and blended pumpkin.
Here are more of the best, easy and delicious pumpkin recipes to make and share this holiday season!
