Family Gatherings Start with 35 Easy Pumpkin Recipes

There’s something about pumpkin that turns chaos into comfort. With 35 easy recipes centered around it, no one’s stressing about what to serve or who’s cooking. Suddenly, everyone’s chatting, laughing, and pretending they didn’t just eat three helpings. It’s the kind of meal lineup that makes the house smell great and the stories funnier.

Close-up of a dish of bread pudding with walnuts drizzled with caramel sauce in a white baking dish.
Pumpkin Bread Pudding. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Pumpkin Spiced Muffins

A stack of pumpkin spiced muffins on a plate.
Pumpkin Spiced Muffins. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When people gather in the kitchen warm baked goods are always a hit with coffee close by. Try passing out Pumpkin Spiced Muffins and watch them vanish before you refill anyone’s mug. Their soft bite and hint of spice make a simple morning feel more special. You’ll hear someone say they wish there were more every single time.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Spiced Muffins

Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies

Close-up of a frosted cookie with a bite taken out, sprinkled with cinnamon, on a parchment surface.
Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Plates filled with large golden treats usually grab everyone’s attention at family events. Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies always starts a round of guessing at what’s in them. Their texture goes over well especially with folks who like bakery-style sweets. Don’t expect any leftovers once the plate gets passed around the table.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Crumbl Caramel Pumpkin Cookies

Fudgy Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake

Close-up of five bright orange physalis fruits placed on a chocolate pumpkin patch brownie surface, garnished with fresh green mint leaves.
Fudgy Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cake that combines richness with fun shapes becomes a conversation starter every time it hits the table. Fudgy Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake make dessert time extra memorable for anyone who likes mixing flavors. There’s always a request for second helpings because people think it stands out.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Chocolate Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake

Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans

Close-up of freshly baked cookies with nuts on top, arranged closely together.
Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When cookies go soft with a little crunch they quickly become the favorite snack near the fireplace. Folks pick up Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans even when other sweets are around just for something different. The batch always empties out quicker than planned so save a few for yourself.
Get the Recipe: Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans

Pumpkin Muffins

A stack of pumpkin muffins in paper liners is arranged on a light surface, with small decorative pumpkins in the background.
Pumpkin Muffins. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Simple baked goods on a breakfast table are often first to disappear. Make room for Pumpkin Muffins and listen for comments about how they fit any meal perfectly. Pair them with your coffee or tea and they stand out among the other options. It’s one recipe people keep reaching for when a refill is needed.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Muffins

Vegan Pumpkin Cookies

Several peanut butter cookies with a crisscross pattern on top are arranged on crumpled parchment paper, with some crumbs scattered around.
Vegan Pumpkin Cookies. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

A tray of bright cookies brings friends together especially when everyone wants something new. Pass around Vegan Pumpkin Cookies and guests are usually curious to see how they taste. The texture leaves a good impression for anyone watching what they eat but still wanting dessert. Most of the batch is gone by the time the gathering ends.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pumpkin Cookies

Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

Close-up of a muffin with a bite taken out, topped with cream and pumpkin seeds.
Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Whenever a special treat from a café appears at home the mood changes for the better. Expect plenty of smiles when Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins show up at your family breakfast. Their creamy center makes every bite different from typical baked goods in the spread. Watch as everyone asks where you picked up such a good idea for brunch.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

A close-up of several oatmeal cookies stacked and scattered on parchment paper, with one cookie broken in half to show the inside texture.
Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For casual snacking or sharing something homemade these work well with any crowd. Pass out Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies to get a few quick thumbs up after dinner. They keep people coming back to the snack tray even between games or stories. Make sure there’s enough for guests who want a handful to take home.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

Fluffy Pumpkin Caramel Cake

Close-up of a slice of pumpkin cake with cream cheese frosting and a drizzle of caramel on top.
Fluffy Pumpkin Caramel Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Tall desserts with layers get everyone talking around the table no matter what else is served. Bringing in Fluffy Pumpkin Caramel Cake makes friends pause just to admire it before taking a bite. Each forkful has enough sweet to match the celebration vibe. A crowd favorite that usually needs little explanation for refills to be requested.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Pumpkin Caramel Cake

Pumpkin Pasta

A bowl of rigatoni pasta with creamy sauce, topped with grated cheese, pumpkin seeds, and sprinkled with herbs.
Pumpkin Pasta. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Pasta dishes with unique twists often get repeat requests by the time the main course is through. Plates with Pumpkin Pasta are always empty by the end of the night because it’s not something you have every day. Serving up something a bit different makes guests remember the meal long after everyone leaves.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pasta

Pumpkin Cake

Close-up of sliced pumpkin cake topped with cream cheese frosting and a dusting of cinnamon, with plates in the background.
Pumpkin Cake. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Light crumb desserts stand out on crowded tables especially when folks get picky about their sweets. Pass slices of Pumpkin Cake down the line and get ready for lots of compliments about its look and feel. Often it’s the piece everyone wishes was just a bit bigger. A simple classic that pairs well with anything nearby.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cake

Pumpkin Soup

A mouthwatering close-up of pumpkin soup garnished with a swirl of cream, crunchy pumpkin seeds, a crispy slice, and aromatic sage leaves.
Pumpkin Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Starting off the meal with something smooth gives dinners a mellow start that gets people talking. Ladle out Pumpkin Soup and wait for the quiet nods then the requests for the recipe. Its warm comfort works well for big groups or smaller gatherings. Most end up asking for a refill before the main dish arrives.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Soup

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

A close-up of several chocolate chip cookies on parchment paper, with one cookie broken in half to show the chocolate chips inside.
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Cookies that combine two favorites always seem to get picked first at snack time. Bring out Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies and you’ll see people reach for one without even thinking. The mix of sweet stays popular from party time through late-night leftovers. Watch how quickly the plate empties no matter the crowd.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

A bowl of creamy pasta garnished with herbs, with a slice of bread on the side; a skillet and a small bowl of roasted vegetables are in the background.
Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Creamy dinner staples with a twist always catch folks off guard in a good way. Serve up Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese and the chatter starts about how new it feels but still familiar. Most guests dig in for seconds especially when something simple gets upgraded. Easy to spot at the center of any family spread.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Pumpkin Pie

A slice of pumpkin pie on a plate with cranberries.
Pumpkin Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

No dessert lineup feels right without that classic slice in the middle of the table. Hand out pieces of Pumpkin Pie and get ready for lots of chatter about how it compares to everyone’s favorite version. Some people skip everything else just to grab a second piece of this standard treat. Always makes for good conversation and more family stories to share.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pie

Pumpkin Bars with Chopped Chocolate

Close-up of pumpkin chocolate bars stacked on a plate, showcasing their golden orange color and melty chocolate chunks.
Pumpkin Bars with Chopped Chocolate. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Everyone grabs a square when there’s a bit of richness packed inside each bite. Bars like Pumpkin Bars with Chopped Chocolate find their way into snack plates faster than other desserts nearby. These vanish fast at busy gatherings wanting something new that isn’t too sweet. Don’t be surprised if people sneak a few extras home for later.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Bars with Chopped Chocolate

Pumpkin Cheesecake

A person holding a piece of pumpkin cheesecake on a fork.
Pumpkin Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bringing something smooth and creamy to the table usually makes dessert the highlight of any meal. Sharing Pumpkin Cheesecake gives every guest a chance to try something they don’t see every day. Plates fill up quickly once slices start appearing no matter how many options are out. People often start asking if there’s a way to get the recipe for next time.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cheesecake

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Three cinnamon rolls topped with white icing and sprinkled with cinnamon, served on a plate.
Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sticky bakery treats seem to bring folks together first thing in the morning. Unravel a batch of Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls and get ready for upbeat chatter around the counter before breakfast even starts. Their soft center stands out against other sweets with every bite. Always a smart move to make plenty for groups who linger at the table.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Pumpkin Risotto

A close-up of vegan pumpkin risotto, topped with roasted pumpkin slices, sage leaves, and chopped nuts.
Pumpkin Risotto. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Hearty dishes go far at big meals particularly those with a unique filling flavor. Pumpkin Risotto get passed around as people talk about what makes it stand out. The creamy texture pairs well with other sides right on the plate. Guests usually get curious about how easy it is to make after one bite.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Risotto

Pumpkin Bread

A close-up of a sliced loaf of pumpkin bread with a light tan glaze dripped over the top. The bread has a moist and textured look, with visible air bubbles throughout.
Pumpkin Bread. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Quick breads shine at gatherings where folks want something easy to slice or grab while chatting. Set out Pumpkin Bread and watch as slices disappear even before the drinks are poured. Its soft crumb makes it right for any time of day. Bake more than you think you’ll need since it never lasts long after family gets together.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Bread

Vegan Spiced Pumpkin Pie

A slice of vegan spiced pumpkin pie topped with whipped cream and a light dusting of cinnamon on a white plate.
Vegan Spiced Pumpkin Pie. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Dessert tables light up when classics get a new twist for everyone to try. Offer up Vegan Spiced Pumpkin Pie and people start talking about how it feels just like the real deal. Slices get snapped up by anyone wanting something a little different from the norm. Many don’t even notice it’s vegan until someone brings it up.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Spiced Pumpkin Pie

Pumpkin Bars

A group of pumpkin bars with icing on top.
Pumpkin Bars. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Simple squares with a sweet hint are perfect for snackers who want something familiar. Sharing Pumpkin Bars keeps people happy while main dishes and stories pass around the table. They stay easy to grab at any time during the meal. Always one of those treats that manages to feel just right with coffee or tea.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Bars

Pumpkin Pancake

A stack of pancakes with whipped cream and nuts.
Pumpkin Pancake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Hot griddled stacks draw people to the table with stories and syrup nearby. Putting out Pumpkin Pancake makes brunch more fun and keeps everyone coming back for another round. The texture makes them stand out from everyday versions on the breakfast menu. Folks rarely let any leftovers go to waste no matter how late it gets.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pancake

Maple Pecan Granola Recipe

Maple Pecan Granola Recipe. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Crunchy toppings with a hint of richness usually top off yogurt or get eaten straight out of the jar at family events. Passing bowls of Maple Pecan Granola Recipe means breakfast will be off to a good start. Most guests grab extra for snacking between games or rambles outdoors.
Get the Recipe: Maple Pecan Granola Recipe

Roasted Pumpkin Seed

A white bowl filled with roasted, seasoned pumpkin seeds on a light surface.
Roasted Pumpkin Seed. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bowls filled with simple snacks are a quick win when family gathers around for games or movies. Pour out Roasted Pumpkin Seed and watch how quickly hands wander over for a handful. They add crunch to the table and keep snackers busy without being too heavy. Some folks tuck a handful away to munch on later in the day.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Pumpkin Seed

Pumpkin Roll

A slice of pumpkin roll being sprinkled with powdered sugar.
Pumpkin Roll. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Spirals of cake cut into rounds bring excitement from anyone who loves something different at dessert. Slicing up Pumpkin Roll feels special enough to be the highlight of a meal without much fuss. Each slice looks just right lined up next to coffee cups. This sweet treat always draws a crowd once it’s ready to eat.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Roll

Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake

Two slices of pumpkin s'mores pie on a white plate, topped with chocolate chips, graham crackers, and toasted marshmallows.
Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Combination desserts bring out the big smiles for any family celebration. Serving up Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake gets people talking about how fun it is to eat. With every slice there’s something a little different in the mix for everyone. This dessert ends up being the one people remember most long after the party is done.
Get the Recipe: Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake

Pumpkin Spice Roll Cookies

Close-up of a stack of swirled cookies with a light and dark pattern, showcasing a golden brown color.
Pumpkin Spice Roll Cookies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Special twist treats find their moment when snackers gather near the dessert table. Passing Pumpkin Spice Roll Cookies around means lots of comments about their look and feel. Inside every bite there’s a swirl that sets these apart from standard cookies. No batch ever lasts past the first round of coffee pouring.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Spice Roll Cookies

Roasted Pumpkin Hummus

Roasted Pumpkin Hummus. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Dips with a new spin always get sampled quickly when everyone’s ready to snack ahead of dinner. Scoop up Roasted Pumpkin Hummus and watch how it adds color to big platters. It works with chips or crackers without much fuss. Someone almost always asks if you can send them the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Pumpkin Hummus

Pumpkin Cupcakes

Two cupcakes with light brown frosting are shown on a white surface, each in a beige paper liner.
Pumpkin Cupcakes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Small single-serve desserts mean guests don’t need to wait for a fork to dig in. A tray of Pumpkin Cupcakes draws plenty of attention once it comes out. Their fluffy texture makes them perfect for standing around or sitting while chatting. Extras often disappear during cleanup before anyone can save one for later.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cupcakes

Pumpkin Carbonara

A close-up of a forkful of spaghetti carbonara with crispy bacon bits and garnished with green herbs.
Pumpkin Carbonara. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Creamy pasta with a twist gets noticed at dinner gatherings where guests want something richer than usual. Spoon out Pumpkin Carbonara and people always mention how they haven’t tried it before. It stands up well next to other family favorites at the table. Before long everyone is looking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Carbonara

Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake

Close-up of a Pumpkin Dump Cake, a baked dessert topped with chopped pecans and drizzled with caramel sauce, served in a white dish on a wooden surface.
Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Simple trays of scoopable dessert keep families happy when everyone wants something sweet without much fuss. Hand out portions of Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake and watch as it gets scooped up over other desserts. It’s a low-effort win for big crowds at dinner. Plating a second helping is pretty common once the first bite is gone.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake

Pumpkin Waffles

Three golden-brown vegan pumpkin waffles stacked on a white plate, with syrup pooling in their square pockets.
Pumpkin Waffles. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Griddled sweets make a breakfast table more tempting than usual for a full house. Pumpkin Waffles get picked clean by everyone before the morning rush is done. Their warmth matches well with syrup or fruit piled on top. Sharing these guarantees a sunny start for any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Waffles

Copycat Honey Baked Ham

Close-up of seasoned and roasted meat with crispy edges.
Copycat Honey Baked Ham. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Savory mains feel right for special occasions especially when they carry a hint of sweetness. Slices of Copycat Honey Baked Ham get polished off quickly when served with sides. It’s one of those dishes people keep mentioning even after the plates are cleared. Worth making just to see everyone nod and ask for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Honey Baked Ham

Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Close-up of a dish of bread pudding with walnuts drizzled with caramel sauce in a white baking dish.
Pumpkin Bread Pudding. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Layered desserts with soft pieces tend to finish off a dinner with smiles around the table. Spoon out Pumpkin Bread Pudding and expect requests for extra topping or sauce. It’s pretty easy to see why guests end up asking for seconds at every holiday. Save room because this one always disappears by the end of the night.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Bread Pudding

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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