Pumpkin is a winter squash that lends itself well to desserts because you can match its natural sweetness with brown sugar, maple syrup, honey, nuts, and warm baking spices. Seasonal baking spices like allspice, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg boost the pumpkin’s mellow flavor. You can add the spices individually or mix up a batch of Pumpkin Spice Blend to have on hand for all of your fall baking needs. Canned pumpkin provides an easy way to make your dessert, but you can also roast fresh pumpkin yourself and create the purée needed for these recipes. Many people were first introduced to pumpkin desserts through the traditional pumpkin pie, but pumpkin can be used in a surprising number of sweet treats. Pumpkin bread, cake, cheesecake, cookies, and ice cream are just a few of the creative ways pumpkin can be used in desserts. Also, because pumpkin is a squash and naturally gluten-free, it can easily be incorporated into gluten-free, vegan, and many other desserts that fit all types of eating styles and allergy restrictions. We’ve included a list of all our favorites right here.
