Pumpkin pie might be the most famous fall dessert, but there are so many other delicious ways to enjoy pumpkin! This collection of 25 Unique Pumpkin Dessert Recipes is filled with creative pumpkin treats that go beyond the usual pies, cakes and cookies.
You’ll find everything from creamy pumpkin mousse and pumpkin tiramisu to homemade ice cream, pumpkin fudge, comforting bread pudding and fun treats for fall parties.
I love a good pumpkin pie, but sometimes it’s fun to make something a little different. These recipes are perfect for Halloween celebrations, Thanksgiving gatherings, fall dinner parties or just enjoying pumpkin season at home.
Whether you’re looking for an easy no-bake pumpkin dessert, something warm and comforting or a special sweet treat to share, there are plenty of delicious ideas here!
Why You’ll Love These Pumpkin Desserts
- Something different: These recipes go beyond traditional pumpkin pie, cake and cookies.
- Lots of variety: You’ll find creamy desserts, frozen treats, candy, bread pudding and more.
- Great for entertaining: Many of these recipes are perfect for Halloween parties, Thanksgiving and fall gatherings.
- Make-ahead options: Several of these desserts can be prepared in advance.
- Plenty of pumpkin flavor: These recipes celebrate pumpkin in all kinds of delicious ways. And they are great recipes using canned pumpkin!
Pumpkin Puddings, Mousse and Creamy Desserts
If you love creamy desserts, this section is for you! Pumpkin works beautifully in everything from mousse and pudding to elegant layered desserts. These recipes are especially nice for entertaining because many can be prepared ahead of time and served chilled.
1. Pumpkin Tiramisu
This fall-inspired twist on classic tiramisu brings pumpkin flavor to a creamy, layered dessert. It’s a wonderful choice when you want something a little more special than traditional pumpkin pie.
2. Pumpkin Gingerbread Trifle
Pumpkin and gingerbread are such a delicious combination! This layered dessert is a beautiful addition to a fall or holiday dessert table, and it’s a great choice when you’re serving a crowd.
3. Pumpkin Mousse
Light, fluffy and full of pumpkin flavor, this creamy mousse is a lovely alternative to traditional baked desserts. Serve it in individual glasses with whipped cream for a pretty presentation.
4. Pumpkin Panna Cotta
This silky, creamy Italian-style dessert gets a fall makeover with pumpkin and warm spices. It’s an elegant choice for a dinner party or Thanksgiving dessert.
5. Pumpkin Crème Brûlée
Pumpkin crème brûlée combines smooth, creamy pumpkin custard with a crisp caramelized sugar topping. It’s a delicious way to make a classic dessert feel a little more seasonal.
Warm and Comforting Pumpkin Desserts
There’s nothing quite like a warm dessert on a chilly fall evening. These comforting pumpkin recipes are especially delicious served with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
6. Pumpkin Bread Pudding
Pumpkin bread pudding is the ultimate cozy fall dessert! It’s a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of pumpkin and warm spices in a comforting baked treat. Serve it warm for an extra-special dessert.
7. Pumpkin Cobbler
If you love warm fruit cobblers, you’ll want to try a pumpkin version. A soft pumpkin filling and sweet topping make this a wonderful dessert for a cool fall evening.
8. Pumpkin Rice Pudding
Creamy rice pudding gets a delicious seasonal twist with pumpkin and fall spices. It’s a simple, comforting dessert that’s especially good when you’re craving something homemade.
9. Baked Pumpkin Crisp
A sugary, buttery, crispy topping is baked over pumpkin custard producing the most heavenly results that are perfectly sweet.
10. Pumpkin Soufflé
A pumpkin soufflé is a fun way to make something a little unexpected for dessert. Light and airy, it’s a lovely choice when you want to impress your guests with a special pumpkin treat.
Pumpkin Ice Cream and Frozen Desserts
Who says pumpkin desserts have to be served warm? These frozen treats are a fun way to enjoy pumpkin season, especially when the fall weather hasn’t quite cooled down yet.
11. Pumpkin Pie Ice Cream
All the delicious flavors of pumpkin pie in a scoop of homemade ice cream! This is a fun dessert to serve on its own or alongside another fall favorite.
12. Pumpkin Pie Milkshake
If you love pumpkin pie and milkshakes, why not combine the two? This creamy pumpkin milkshake is a fun fall treat that tastes like dessert in a glass.
13. Pumpkin Spice Ice Cream Sandwiches
Pumpkin-flavored ice cream tucked between cookies makes a delicious frozen dessert. These are especially fun for fall parties and casual gatherings.
14. Pumpkin Pie Popsicles
These creamy pumpkin popsicles are a playful way to enjoy the flavors of fall. They’re a fun treat for kids and anyone who loves frozen desserts.
15. Pumpkin Frozen Yogurt
Pumpkin frozen yogurt is a refreshing alternative to traditional pumpkin desserts. It’s a great choice when you’re looking for something cold, creamy and full of seasonal flavor.
16. Pumpkin Spice Affogato
This is a homemade Pumpkin Spice Gelato with espresso to make a delicious Pumpkin Spice Affogato, and it is perfect for the season!
Pumpkin Candy and Sweet Treats
Pumpkin isn’t just for baking! These sweet treats are wonderful for fall parties, dessert platters and homemade holiday gifts. They’re also a fun way to enjoy pumpkin in smaller bites.
17. Pumpkin Fudge
Pumpkin fudge is a delicious fall candy that’s perfect for sharing. It’s a fun alternative to traditional chocolate fudge and a wonderful addition to a holiday candy platter.
18. Pumpkin Truffles
These bite-sized pumpkin treats are perfect for anyone who loves chocolate and pumpkin spice. They’re a pretty addition to fall dessert trays and make a lovely homemade gift.
19. Pumpkin Caramels
Soft, chewy pumpkin-flavored caramels are a fun seasonal twist on traditional homemade candy. Wrap them individually for sharing with friends and family.
20. Pumpkin Spice Bark
White chocolate and pumpkin spice flavors come together in this easy candy treat. Break it into pieces and add it to a fall dessert platter or package it for gifting.
21. Pumpkin Spice Marshmallows
Homemade marshmallows with pumpkin spice flavor are a fun fall treat. Enjoy them on their own, add them to hot chocolate or include them on a seasonal dessert board.
Fun and Unexpected Pumpkin Desserts
Looking for something really different? These pumpkin desserts are a little more playful and perfect for parties. They’re great choices when you want to surprise everyone with something other than the usual pumpkin pie.
22. Pumpkin Cheesecake Dip
This creamy pumpkin dip is a fun dessert to serve with cookies, graham crackers and other sweet treats. Put it in the center of a dessert board and let everyone choose their favorite dippers!
23. Pumpkin Churros
Crispy churros with pumpkin flavor and a cinnamon-sugar coating make a fun fall dessert. Serve them with a dipping sauce for an extra-special treat.
24. Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake Shooters
This dessert involves a shot of no-bake Pumpkin Spice Cheesecake with a chocolate graham cracker crust and whipped topping for the perfect fall dessert.
25. Pumpkin Dessert Pizza
This sweet dessert pizza is a creative way to enjoy pumpkin. With a pumpkin filling and a delicious topping, it’s a fun alternative to traditional fall desserts.
Tips for Making the Best Pumpkin Desserts
Use plain pumpkin puree. Most pumpkin dessert recipes call for unsweetened pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin pie filling already contains sugar and spices, so the two aren’t always interchangeable.
Measure your pumpkin carefully. Pumpkin adds moisture to desserts, and using more than the recipe calls for can change the texture.
Use fresh spices. Cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves and allspice are especially delicious with pumpkin. Fresh spices will give your desserts the best flavor.
Plan ahead for chilled desserts. Pumpkin mousse, panna cotta, tiramisu and frozen desserts may need several hours to chill or set. Be sure to check the recipe before you begin.
Have fun with toppings. Whipped cream, caramel sauce, toasted pecans, crushed gingersnaps and chocolate shavings can make simple pumpkin desserts feel extra special.
Follow storage instructions. Desserts containing cream cheese, whipped cream, custard or other perishable ingredients should be refrigerated according to the recipe’s directions.
Think about presentation. Individual dessert glasses, pretty serving bowls and dessert boards are great ways to serve pumpkin treats at fall parties.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Desserts
What can I make with pumpkin besides pie?
There are so many possibilities! Pumpkin can be used to make mousse, pudding, tiramisu, ice cream, milkshakes, bread pudding, fudge, truffles, dessert dips and more. It’s a versatile ingredient that works in both baked and no-bake desserts.
What are some easy no-bake pumpkin desserts?
Pumpkin spice dip, pumpkin mousse, some versions of pumpkin tiramisu and pumpkin milkshakes are great choices when you don’t want to turn on the oven. Just be sure to allow enough time for desserts that need chilling.
Can I use canned pumpkin for these recipes?
Yes! Most pumpkin dessert recipes use canned pumpkin puree, which is convenient and available year-round. Be sure to choose plain pumpkin puree unless the recipe specifically calls for pumpkin pie filling.
What’s the difference between pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie filling?
Pumpkin puree is cooked, pureed pumpkin without added sweeteners or spices. Pumpkin pie filling already contains sugar and seasonings. Most recipes in this collection call for plain pumpkin puree.
What flavors go well with pumpkin?
Pumpkin pairs beautifully with cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, vanilla, maple syrup, caramel, chocolate, pecans, walnuts and cream cheese. Coffee and pumpkin are also a delicious combination.
Can pumpkin desserts be made ahead of time?
Many can! Desserts such as tiramisu, mousse, pudding, fudge and frozen treats are often excellent make-ahead options. Always check the individual recipe for chilling times and storage recommendations.
Which pumpkin desserts are best for Thanksgiving?
Pumpkin tiramisu, pumpkin gingerbread trifle, pumpkin bread pudding, pumpkin crème brûlée and pumpkin fudge would all be wonderful additions to a Thanksgiving dessert table. They’re especially nice when you want to serve something besides traditional pumpkin pie.
Can pumpkin desserts be frozen?
Some can, including many ice creams, frozen treats and certain candies. Creamy desserts such as mousse and custard may change texture after freezing and thawing, so follow the individual recipe’s recommendations.
More Pumpkin Recipes You’ll Love
If you love pumpkin season as much as I do, be sure to check out my 44 Recipes to Make with Canned Pumpkin collection. It’s filled with delicious pumpkin recipes for breakfast, dinner and dessert.
You might also enjoy these other pumpkin recipe roundups:
