When autumn arrives, so does the craving for all things pumpkin. While classic pumpkin pie will always have a special place in our hearts, the world of pumpkin desserts is vast and wonderfully varied.
This list explores 45 delicious ways to enjoy pumpkin’s sweet, earthy flavor, from creamy cheesecakes and soft-baked cookies to delightful dips and unique layered treats.
Cakes and Cupcakes
Moist, spiced, and everything nice, pumpkin cakes and cupcakes are a perfect alternative to pie. The pumpkin puree ensures a tender crumb while cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove add that quintessential autumn warmth.
1. Pumpkin Layer Cake with Mascarpone Frosting
Perfectly moist and delicately spiced, this classic pumpkin cake is slathered in a simple vanilla buttercream frosting made tangy and rich with the addition of mascarpone cheese.
DIY Tips:
- Add a pinch of cardamom to the cake batter for a brighter, more perfumed flavor.
- Toast pumpkin seeds and sprinkle them over the finished cake for a crunchy topping.
- For extra moist cake layers, brush them with a simple syrup infused with cinnamon stick before frosting.
2. Pumpkin Roll
A classic fall dessert, this spiced pumpkin cake is rolled up with a sweet cream cheese filling, creating a beautiful spiral in every slice.
DIY Tips:
- Be sure to roll the warm cake in a towel dusted with powdered sugar to prevent it from cracking.
- For an extra touch of flavor, add a little orange zest to the cream cheese filling.
- Make a decorative pattern on top by dusting with powdered sugar over a lace doily.
3. Pumpkin Bundt Cake
This moist Bundt cake is packed with the cinnamon-nutmeg flavors of pie and is ready for the oven in just a few steps. Often finished with a simple glaze, it’s an elegant and easy dessert.
DIY Tips:
- For a punchy glaze, mix powdered sugar with a splash of rum or maple syrup.
- Add plump raisins or chopped pecans to the batter for added texture.
- Ensure your Bundt pan is thoroughly greased and floured to prevent the cake from sticking.
4. Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
Two soft, cake-like pumpkin cookies are sandwiched together with a fluffy cream cheese or marshmallow filling. They’re a fun, hand-held treat perfect for parties.
DIY Tips:
- Use a cookie scoop to ensure your whoopie pie halves are uniform in size.
- For a chocolatey twist, use a chocolate cream cheese filling.
- Roll the edges of the filled whoopie pies in festive sprinkles or finely chopped nuts.
5. Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting
These warmly spiced pumpkin cakes are adorned with a sweet-tart cream cheese frosting. They are a perfect single-serving dessert for any fall gathering.
DIY Tips:
- Top the frosting with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- For a surprise inside, fill the cupcakes with a small dollop of cream cheese filling before baking.
- Garnish with toasted pumpkin and sunflower seeds for a delightful crunch.
6. Pumpkin Coffee Cake
A tender pumpkin cake base is topped with a buttery, cinnamon-spiced streusel, making it the perfect companion to a hot cup of coffee on a crisp morning.
DIY Tips:
- Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel topping for extra crunch.
- For a richer flavor, use brown sugar instead of white sugar in the streusel.
- Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the cooled cake for extra sweetness.
7. Pumpkin Sheet Cake
Ideal for a crowd, this cake is baked in a sheet pan and covered with a generous layer of cream cheese frosting. It’s simple, delicious, and easy to serve.
DIY Tips:
- Use a spatula to create lovely swirls in the cream cheese frosting.
- Brown the butter for the frosting to give it a nutty, complex flavor.
- Garnish with toasted coconut or a dusting of pumpkin pie spice.
8. Pumpkin Dump Cake
Arguably one of the easiest desserts, a dump cake involves layering pumpkin puree, spices, and cake mix in a pan and baking. The result is a deliciously gooey, cobbler-like dessert.
DIY Tips:
- Sprinkle a layer of chopped pecans or toffee bits over the cake mix before baking for a crunchy top.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
- Use a spice cake mix to enhance the fall flavors.
9. Pumpkin Skillet Cake
This rustic cake is mixed and baked in the same skillet, making for easy cleanup. It often has a tender crumb and beautifully caramelized edges.
DIY Tips:
- Serve slices directly from the cast-iron skillet for a charming, rustic presentation.
- Top the warm cake with a scoop of salted caramel ice cream.
- Brown the butter in the skillet before adding the batter for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
Cookies and Bars
Perfectly portable and easy to share, pumpkin cookies and bars are a staple of fall baking. From soft and cakey to dense and chewy, there’s a pumpkin cookie or bar for every preference.
10. Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
A fall update on a classic, these cookies get their warm, cozy flavor from canned pumpkin and pumpkin pie spice. They are often soft, cakey, and begging to be dunked in milk.
DIY Tips:
- Use a mix of dark chocolate and milk chocolate chips for a more complex flavor.
- For a chewier cookie, use melted butter and add an extra egg yolk.
- Sprinkle the tops with flaky sea salt right after they come out of the oven.
11. Pumpkin Snickerdoodles
These soft and chewy cookies combine the tang of a traditional snickerdoodle with the warm spice of pumpkin. They are rolled in cinnamon sugar before baking for that classic crinkly top.
DIY Tips:
- Add a little pumpkin pie spice to the cinnamon-sugar coating for extra flavor.
- For a softer cookie, be careful not to overbake; pull them from the oven when the edges are just set.
- Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes to prevent the cookies from spreading too much.
12. Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cookies
Brimming with chocolate chunks and chopped walnuts, these are a delicious oatmeal cookie option. The pumpkin makes them incredibly moist and soft.
DIY Tips:
- Add raisins or dried cranberries for an extra chewy texture.
- For a decadent treat, sandwich a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two cookies.
- Use old-fashioned rolled oats for a chewier texture compared to quick oats.
13. Pumpkin Cake Cookies
When a cake and a cookie meet, you get these soft, fluffy, and chewy treats that are full of pumpkin flavor. They are often topped with a rich cream cheese frosting.
DIY Tips:
- The dough will be very soft, more like a batter; use a scoop for easy portioning.
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cookies light and cakey.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before frosting to prevent it from melting.
14. Cake Mix Pumpkin Cookies
For the ultimate easy dessert, combine a box of spice cake mix with a can of pumpkin puree. The result is a batch of incredibly soft, two-ingredient cookies ready in minutes.
DIY Tips:
- If you can’t find spice cake mix, use a yellow cake mix and add a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice.
- Fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or toffee bits for added texture and flavor.
- Top the cooled cookies with a simple cream cheese frosting or a dusting of powdered sugar.
15. Pumpkin Bars with Cream Cheese Frosting
These moist and thick bars are perfectly flavored with pumpkin puree and spice, then topped with a silky cream cheese frosting. They are a crowd-pleasing classic for a reason.
DIY Tips:
- For a nuttier flavor in the frosting, use browned salted butter.
- Ensure the bars are completely cool before frosting to get a clean, smooth layer.
- Cut the bars into squares for easy serving at parties and potlucks.
16. Pumpkin Praline Bars
These bars feature a creamy pumpkin filling and a crunchy, sweet praline topping made with pecans and brown sugar.
DIY Tips:
- Toast the pecans before adding them to the topping to deepen their flavor.
- For a gooey texture, slightly underbake the bars.
- A shortbread or gingersnap crust works wonderfully with the pumpkin and praline flavors.
17. Vegan Pumpkin Pie Crumb Bars
These bars feature an oatmeal crust, a creamy pumpkin filling, and a delicious oat crumble on top. They are a perfect treat for those with dietary restrictions.
DIY Tips:
- Use coconut oil in place of butter for the crust and crumble.
- A mix of maple syrup and brown sugar can be used to sweeten the filling.
- Add chopped pecans to the crumble topping for extra crunch.
18. Pumpkin Pecan Bars
Made with a gingersnap crust, a creamy pumpkin filling, and a toffee topping, these bars are a texture and flavor explosion.
DIY Tips:
- Crush store-bought gingersnaps for a quick and flavorful crust.
- Let the bars cool completely before cutting to ensure clean slices.
- A sprinkle of sea salt on the toffee topping will balance the sweetness.
19. 3-Layer Pumpkin Brownies
A decadent treat that layers a rich brownie base, a creamy pumpkin filling, and a crumble or chocolate topping.
DIY Tips:
- Use your favorite boxed brownie mix for the bottom layer to save time.
- Create a swirl effect by dropping dollops of the pumpkin mixture onto the brownie batter and gently swirling with a knife.
- Sprinkle chocolate chips on top before baking for an extra gooey treat.
Cheesecakes and Creamy Treats
Pumpkin and cream cheese are a match made in heaven. The sweet, earthy pumpkin perfectly complements the tangy cream cheese, resulting in rich, decadent, and utterly irresistible desserts.
20. No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake
A dreamy, creamy dessert with layers of cheesecake, spiced pumpkin, and whipped topping, all nestled in a graham cracker crust. It’s perfect when you need a show-stopping dessert without turning on the oven.
DIY Tips:
- For easy serving, make this dessert in a 9×13 pan to create no-bake pumpkin cheesecake bars.
- Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to avoid lumps in your filling.
- Let the cheesecake set in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours for the best texture.
21. Pumpkin Swirl Cheesecake Bars
Perfectly spiced pumpkin pie filling is swirled into a rich cheesecake batter and baked on a crisp cookie crust. Biscoff or gingersnap cookies make an excellent crust choice.
DIY Tips:
- Don’t overmix the batter after adding the pumpkin swirl to maintain a distinct pattern.
- A water bath (bain-marie) can help prevent the cheesecake from cracking as it bakes.
- Let the bars cool gradually in the oven with the door propped open to prevent cracking.
22. Mini Pumpkin Cheesecakes
These individual cheesecakes are perfect for portion control and elegant serving. They often feature a vanilla wafer or gingersnap crust.
DIY Tips:
- Use a muffin tin with paper liners for easy baking and removal.
- Top each mini cheesecake with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- A small dollop of salted caramel on top is a delicious addition.
23. Brownie Bottom Pumpkin Cheesecake
This dessert features two decadent layers: a rich, fudgy brownie base topped with a creamy, spiced pumpkin cheesecake.
DIY Tips:
- Bake the brownie layer first until it’s just set before adding the cheesecake batter on top.
- For a shortcut, use a boxed brownie mix for the bottom layer.
- The contrast of the dark chocolate and orange pumpkin makes for a beautiful presentation.
24. Pumpkin Tiramisu
This autumnal twist on the classic Italian dessert features layers of ladyfinger cookies soaked in coffee and liqueur, and a creamy pumpkin-mascarpone custard.
DIY Tips:
- Use a pumpkin spice liqueur or a mix of coffee and rum for soaking the ladyfingers.
- Dust the top with cocoa powder or a mix of cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Let the tiramisu chill for at least 6 hours, or overnight, for the flavors to meld together.
25. Pumpkin Cream Trifle
An impressive and easy dessert made by layering crumbled cake, pecans, toffee bits, and a creamy pumpkin pudding or cheesecake filling in a large glass bowl.
DIY Tips:
- Use a boxed spice cake mix as a shortcut for the cake layers.
- For a no-bake version, layer cubes of pound cake with a no-bake pumpkin cheesecake filling.
- Assemble the trifle in a glass bowl to show off the beautiful layers.
26. Pumpkin Pudding
This simple, creamy dessert can be made in just a few minutes and served in individual cups. It captures the flavor of pumpkin pie without the fuss of a crust.
DIY Tips:
- Use instant vanilla pudding mix as a base for a quick and easy pudding.
- Top with whipped cream and crushed gingersnap cookies for texture.
- Serve in small glass jars for a charming presentation.
27. Pumpkin Mousse
A light and airy dessert, pumpkin mousse is often made with pumpkin puree, cream cheese, whipped topping, and spices. It’s an elegant and simple no-bake option.
DIY Tips:
- Fold in the whipped topping gently to keep the mousse light and fluffy.
- For a richer flavor, add a splash of bourbon or rum to the mixture.
- Pipe the mousse into martini glasses for a sophisticated presentation.
28. No-Bake Pumpkin Lush
This dessert features a cinnamon graham cracker crust, a creamy cheesecake layer, a luscious pumpkin pudding layer, and a final topping of whipped cream.
DIY Tips:
- Press the crust mixture firmly into the pan to create a solid base.
- Spread each layer carefully to maintain distinct, clean lines.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving to allow the layers to set properly.
Unique Pumpkin Creations
Step outside the box with these creative pumpkin desserts that are sure to surprise and delight. From dips and truffles to bread pudding and monkey bread, these recipes showcase the true versatility of pumpkin.
29. Pumpkin Bread Pudding
A comforting and decadent dessert made with cubes of bread soaked in a pumpkin-spice custard and baked until golden. It’s often served warm with a caramel or bourbon sauce.
DIY Tips:
- Use stale or dry bread, such as brioche or challah, as it will absorb the custard better.
- Add raisins, pecans, or chocolate chips to the bread mixture before baking.
- Serve with a generous drizzle of warm maple-bourbon sauce.
30. Pumpkin Fluff Dip
A light, creamy, and fluffy dip made with just a few ingredients like pumpkin puree, whipped topping, pudding mix, and spices. It’s perfect for parties served with graham crackers, apple slices, or ginger snaps.
DIY Tips:
- Make sure the whipped topping is fully thawed before mixing.
- For a fun addition, fold in mini marshmallows.
- Present the dip in a hollowed-out small pumpkin for a festive touch.
31. Pumpkin Truffles
These bite-sized treats have a creamy pumpkin spice filling and are coated in chocolate. They are a perfect make-ahead dessert for the holidays.
DIY Tips:
- Roll the pumpkin filling into balls and chill them thoroughly before dipping in melted chocolate.
- Use white, milk, or dark chocolate for the coating.
- Drizzle a contrasting color of chocolate over the top for a decorative finish.
32. Pumpkin Turnovers
Ready-made puff pastry is filled with a sweetened, spiced pumpkin puree and baked until golden and flaky. They can be served for breakfast or dessert.
DIY Tips:
- Add chopped nuts or a small amount of cream cheese to the filling for extra richness.
- Brush the tops with an egg wash before baking for a shiny, golden finish.
- Drizzle with a simple powdered sugar glaze or cream cheese frosting once cooled.
33. Pumpkin Spice Monkey Bread
Pieces of dough are coated in cinnamon sugar, layered in a Bundt pan, and baked with a buttery pumpkin spice glaze. It’s a fun, pull-apart treat for sharing.
DIY Tips:
- Use store-bought refrigerated biscuit dough for a super easy shortcut.
- Drizzle with a cream cheese glaze after baking for extra decadence.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans between the layers of dough for a nutty crunch.
34. Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls
Soft, gooey cinnamon rolls get a fall makeover with the addition of pumpkin in the dough and sometimes in the filling. They are often topped with a classic cream cheese icing.
DIY Tips:
- Be patient and let the dough rise properly for the softest, fluffiest rolls.
- Add a little pumpkin pie spice to the cinnamon-sugar filling.
- Make them ahead of time and refrigerate before the second rise; then bake them fresh in the morning.
35. Pumpkin Ice Cream
A creamy, churned or no-churn ice cream infused with real pumpkin puree and warm spices. It’s the perfect way to enjoy pumpkin on a surprisingly warm fall day.
DIY Tips:
- For a no-churn version, fold pumpkin puree and spices into a base of sweetened condensed milk and whipped cream.
- Add mix-ins like crushed gingersnaps, toffee bits, or a caramel swirl.
- Let the ice cream soften for a few minutes before scooping for the best texture.
36. Pumpkin Spice Cracker Toffee
A simple yet addictive treat made by pouring a bubbling caramel mixture over saltine crackers, baking it, and then spreading melted chocolate on top. The pumpkin spice is added to the caramel for a fall twist.
DIY Tips:
- Use a mix of semi-sweet and milk chocolate for the topping.
- Sprinkle toasted pecans or other chopped nuts over the melted chocolate.
- Break into irregular pieces once it’s fully cooled and hardened.
37. Pumpkin Galette
A rustic, free-form tart that’s easier to make than a traditional pie. A simple pastry dough is folded over a sweet pumpkin filling, creating a beautiful, casual dessert.
DIY Tips:
- Use a store-bought pie crust to make it even easier.
- Brush the crust with an egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar for a crunchy, golden edge.
- Serve with a dollop of cinnamon-spiced whipped cream or crème fraîche.
38. Pumpkin Nutella Swirl Tarts
A decadent treat featuring a chocolate-hazelnut crust, a creamy pumpkin filling, and a rich Nutella swirl on top.
DIY Tips:
- Create a simple crust by mixing crushed chocolate cookies with melted butter and a little hazelnut spread.
- Warm the Nutella slightly to make it easier to swirl into the pumpkin filling.
- Sprinkle with toasted, chopped hazelnuts before serving.
39. Upside Down Pumpkin Pie
This dessert features a rich, buttery spice-cake-flavored streusel on the bottom, which becomes the top when flipped after baking. The pumpkin pie filling bakes on top, creating a gooey, self-saucing dessert.
DIY Tips:
- Be sure to grease the pan very well to ensure it flips out cleanly.
- Let the cake rest for a few minutes after it comes out of the oven before attempting to flip it.
- Serve warm to enjoy the gooey texture of the topping.
40. Pumpkin Chocolate Bread Pudding
A classic bread pudding gets a double dose of deliciousness with the addition of both pumpkin puree and chocolate chunks. It’s a rich and comforting dessert.
DIY Tips:
- Use day-old brioche or challah bread for the best texture.
- A splash of coffee liqueur can enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.
41. Pumpkin Ravioli with Sage Brown Butter Sauce
While often a savory dish, sweet pumpkin ravioli can be a unique dessert. The pasta is filled with a lightly sweetened pumpkin and ricotta mixture and served with a nutty brown butter sauce.
DIY Tips:
- Dust the finished dessert ravioli with powdered sugar and cinnamon.
- Add toasted, chopped pecans or amaretti cookie crumbs to the brown butter sauce.
- Use wonton wrappers as a shortcut for the pasta dough.
42. Pumpkin Fritters
These are small, deep-fried doughnuts made from a pumpkin-spiced batter. They’re crispy on the outside, soft and cakey on the inside, and perfect when tossed in sugar.
DIY Tips:
- Roll the warm fritters in a mixture of sugar and pumpkin pie spice.
- Use a small ice cream scoop to drop the batter into the hot oil for uniform fritters.
- Serve with a side of apple butter or cream cheese dip.
43. Pumpkin Pie Milkshake
Blend vanilla ice cream, milk, pumpkin puree, and a dash of pumpkin pie spice for a simple and delicious fall treat.
DIY Tips:
- For a richer shake, add a slice of actual pumpkin pie to the blender.
- Top with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
- Rim the glass with crushed graham cracker crumbs for a pie-like experience.
44. Chocolate Pumpkin Loaf
This moist and chocolatey loaf cake is an easy and kid-friendly way to enjoy pumpkin. It’s perfect as a lunchbox treat or a simple dessert.
DIY Tips:
- Add a cup of chocolate chips to the batter for extra chocolatey goodness.
- A simple chocolate ganache glaze takes this loaf to the next level.
- Make sure not to overmix the batter to keep the loaf tender.
45. Pumpkin Spice Cereal Treats
A fall twist on the classic crispy rice cereal treat, made by melting marshmallows with butter, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice before stirring in the cereal.
DIY Tips:
- Brown the butter before adding the marshmallows for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
- Drizzle the top with melted white chocolate and festive fall sprinkles.
- Press the mixture into the pan gently to keep the treats light and airy, not dense.
Conclusion
So this autumn, don’t limit yourself to just one way of enjoying this quintessential fall flavor. From simple, no-bake dips to elegant layered cakes, there is a whole universe of pumpkin desserts waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just looking for a quick and easy treat, this list proves that pumpkin’s comforting, spiced flavor can shine in countless creative and delicious forms well beyond a traditional pie crust.