Pumpkin season is in full swing, and although we may love the autumnal flavor, we don’t all have the time or energy to cut and prepare a whole pumpkin. By using a store-bought can of puree, cooking and baking with pumpkin becomes a much less intimidating task. Go beyond pie and creepy carvings this fall by utilizing a simple can of pumpkin in some unconventional ways.
Switch up your breakfasts!
Pumpkin Oatmeal
Hearty and healthy for breakfast but sweet enough for dessert, pumpkin oatmeal is a great way to spice up your average bowl of oats. Make oatmeal as directed and after it is done cooking add ¼ a cup of pumpkin puree, and some pumpkin pie spice (a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and allspice).
Pumpkin Butter
Another way to change up your morning routine is to slather pumpkin butter on your toast in place of your usual jam. By using puree, the butter comes together so fast; you have no excuse for not trying out this seasonal treat.
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Baking with puree couldn’t be easier.
Pumpkin Chocolate-Chip Cookies:
This recipe from Joy the Baker produces a cakey and delicious cookie.
Pumpkin Gooey Butter Cakes:
Paula Deen’s recipe combines yellow cake mix with a cream-cheese and pumpkin filling to produce the most decadent of pumpkin desserts.
Pairing pumpkin with surprising flavors creates a delicious seasonal meal!
Pumpkin & Ricotta Pasta Casserole:
Casseroles are a fast and easy way to serve a crowd, and this recipe is full of autumn flavors: pumpkin, pecan bits, and sage. A guaranteed hit for friends and family!
Pumpkin Shrimp Curry:
This recipe from Bon Appétit adds fall flare to a traditional curry dish.
Pumpkin Soup with Smoked Paprika: A warm and hearty soup that is perfect for when temperatures start to drop.
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Other sweet treats…
Pumpkin Ice Cream: Need I say more?
Pumpkin Spice Latte: Save yourself some money this fall by using this easy recipe to make your favorite Starbucks latte!
So the next time you make a pumpkin pie or pumpkin bread, don’t waste the leftover puree! Treat yourself to one of these delicious recipes to impress your friends and satisfy your sweet tooth. Happy cooking!