How to Use Canned Pumpkin Like a Pro: 10 Recipes to Try

ByChristopher Posted on

Wondering what to make with canned pumpkin? These 10 cozy, easy canned pumpkin recipes—from sweet to savory—are tested to perfection and made to impress.

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As a full-time recipe developer for global food brands, I don’t just “whip something up” and hope for the best. Every recipe I share is tested, refined, and re-tested until it’s not just delicious—but foolproof, easy, and worth your time (and pantry space).

What sets my recipes apart? They’re built around real life. That means minimal ingredients, reliable results, and flavors that actually feel elevated without requiring a culinary degree or 14-step prep. I’m all about that “looks fancy, but took 20 minutes” energy.

So, if you’re staring at that can of pumpkin puree and wondering how to make the most of it—this post is your go-to guide for everything pumpkin, cozy, and crave-worthy. Whether you’re baking something sweet, making a creamy pasta sauce, or even spoiling your pup (yes, there’s a dog treat in here!), I’ve got you covered.

Why I Love Canned Pumpkin

Let’s give a little love to the unsung pantry hero: canned pumpkin. Not only is it affordable, shelf-stable, and easy to use, but it also adds moisture and nutrients (hello, fiber and vitamin A!) to everything from baked goods to soups and sauces.

When shopping, look for 100% pure pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling). The ingredients list should say: pumpkin. That’s it.

Let’s get into these 10 cozy canned pumpkin recipes to make this fall your tastiest yet.

1. Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

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These soft, chewy cookies are the perfect balance of hearty oats and warming pumpkin spice. Great for afternoon coffee breaks or sneaking into lunchboxes.

Pro tip: Add chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra texture.

2. Pumpkin Spice Bread

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A moist and perfectly spiced pumpkin bread recipe that’s fall in loaf form. You can serve it warm with a smear of butter or cream cheese—or toast it the next morning for breakfast. Freezer-friendly, too!

3. Easy Pumpkin & Lentil Soup

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Creamy, comforting, and loaded with fiber and protein. This healthy fall soup is the perfect weeknight meal or meal prep recipe.

Bonus: it uses pantry staples and comes together in under 40 minutes.

4. Pumpkin & Peanut Butter Dog Biscuits

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Your furry friend deserves some pumpkin spice joy, too. These easy, wholesome treats are made with just a few ingredients (like canned pumpkin and oat flour) and are Chloé-approved in my household.

5. Healthy Banana Pumpkin Bread

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A smart way to use up spotty bananas and canned pumpkin. This loaf is subtly sweet, naturally moist, and a healthier alternative to traditional quick breads. No refined sugar, no stress.

6. Creamy Pumpkin Pasta Sauce

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This rich, velvety pasta sauce is ready in minutes and feels fancy enough for a dinner party—but is easy enough for a Tuesday. Pair with your favorite pasta and top with parmesan. Add sage if you’re feeling fancy.

7. Healthy Chewy Pumpkin Cookies

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These are chewy, soft, and not too sweet—aka the perfect fall snack. Naturally sweetened and filled with fiber, they’re perfect with tea or as a pre-gym pick-me-up.

8. Creamy Pumpkin & Sausage Pasta Bake

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Comfort food meets cozy fall flavor. This creamy baked pasta dish is made with canned pumpkin, sausage, and cheese—hello, dream team! Great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping.

9. Pumpkin Walnut & Chocolate Chip Muffins

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These muffins are moist, lightly spiced, and loaded with fall flavor thanks to canned pumpkin. The walnut + chocolate chip combo makes them feel indulgent without being heavy.

10. Pumpkin Walnut & Cranberry Cake

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Sweet, tart, and nutty—this is fall baking at its best. The cranberry cuts through the richness of the pumpkin, and it’s stunning enough to serve for Thanksgiving or a cozy dinner party.

Tips for Cooking with Canned Pumpkin

  • Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze extra puree in silicone ice cube trays for quick future use.
  • Use it as a substitute for butter or oil in baking for a healthier twist.
  • Pair it with warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves for that classic fall flavor.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to canned pumpkin recipes, the options are endless—but they should also be worth your time. These ten recipes are more than just cozy fall dishes. They’re tested, trusted, and deeply delicious—each one created by someone who develops recipes for a living (hi 👋) and loves sharing the kind of food that actually makes you want to cook.

Whether you’re baking for a fall brunch, meal prepping soup, or just trying to figure out what to do with that half-used can in the fridge—there’s something here for everyone.

So go ahead and grab a few cans of pumpkin. You’ve got some serious (and seriously good) recipes to try.

Craving more fall recipes?

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