8 Things to Make with Canned Pumpkin: Canned pumpkin isn’t just for pumpkin pie! This versatile pantry staple can be used in a variety of dishes, both sweet and savory. If you have a can of pumpkin puree lurking in your cupboard and wonder what to do with it, you’re in luck. Here are eight creative and delicious ways to use canned pumpkin that will spice up your meals and treats all year round.
1. Pumpkin Spice Latte
Your Favorite Fall Beverage at Home
Why wait in line at a café when you can make your own pumpkin spice latte at home? It’s easy, economical, and just as delicious.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons canned pumpkin puree
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup strong coffee or espresso
Preparation
In a saucepan, whisk together pumpkin puree, milk, sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla. Warm gently, then blend with coffee. Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice.
2. Pumpkin Breakfast Smoothie
A Healthy Start to Your Day
Kickstart your morning with a nutritious pumpkin smoothie that’s rich in vitamins and fiber.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin
- 1 banana
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 cup milk or almond milk
- Ice cubes
Preparation
Blend all ingredients until smooth. Enjoy a refreshing and filling smoothie that tastes like fall in a glass.
3. Pumpkin Soup
A Comforting Bowl of Goodness
This creamy pumpkin soup is perfect for chilly evenings and is a great way to use up that can of pumpkin.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
- 3 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Pumpkin seeds for garnish
Preparation
Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until translucent. Add pumpkin puree and vegetable broth; bring to a simmer. Stir in coconut milk, season with salt and pepper, and blend until smooth. Garnish with pumpkin seeds before serving.
4. Pumpkin Hummus
A Festive Twist on a Classic Dip
Infuse your regular hummus with the flavors of pumpkin for an autumn-inspired treat.
Ingredients
- 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/3 cup canned pumpkin
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and paprika to taste
Preparation
Combine all ingredients in a food processor and blend until smooth. Serve with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of paprika.
5. Pumpkin Pancakes
Fluffy and Spiced Pancakes for Breakfast
These pumpkin pancakes are a great way to make breakfast more exciting and flavorful.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin
- 1 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Preparation
Mix dry ingredients in one bowl and wet ingredients in another. Combine both until smooth. Cook on a hot griddle until bubbles form, then flip until golden brown.
6. Pumpkin Mac and Cheese
Comfort Food with a Nutritious Twist
Add some pumpkin to your mac and cheese for a nutritious boost and a beautiful color.
Ingredients
- 2 cups pasta, cooked and drained
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation
Melt butter in a pan, whisk in flour to make a roux, then gradually add milk until thickened. Stir in pumpkin and cheese until melted and smooth. Combine with pasta, season, and serve.
7. Pumpkin Spice Muffins
A Sweet Treat That’s Hard to Beat
These muffins are packed with fall flavors and are perfect for a quick snack or a breakfast on-the-go.
Ingredients
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
- 1 can pumpkin puree
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup milk
Preparation
Combine dry ingredients in one bowl and wet ingredients in another. Mix together just until combined. Pour into muffin tins and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes.
8. Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
Decadent Dessert with a Seasonal Flair
Treat yourself to these delicious cheesecake bars with a rich pumpkin flavor.
Ingredients
- For the crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 6 tablespoons butter, melted
- For the filling:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup canned pumpkin
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Preparation
Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and butter, press into a pan. Beat cream cheese, pumpkin, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and spice until smooth. Pour over crust, bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes. Cool and cut into bars.
Conclusion
Canned pumpkin is incredibly versatile and can be used to enhance a variety of recipes, from morning smoothies to comforting dinners and delightful desserts. With these eight creative uses for canned pumpkin, you can enjoy the taste of fall any time of the year and add a healthy twist to your meals.