Pumpkins go hand in hand with the fall holidays. This nutritious and versatile orange colored fruit features edible seeds and flesh that are rich in vitamins and minerals, including beta carotene. As a powerful antioxidant, beta carotene offers protection against cancer, heart disease, asthma, diabetes, and macular degeneration.

Pumpkins are members of the exceedingly diverse gourd family. Gourds come in an astounding array of shapes and sizes and include cucumbers, honeydew melon, cantaloupe, watermelon, and zucchini. These plants are native to Central America and Mexico, but they now grow on all continents except Antarctica. Pumpkins have been grown by Native Americans for thousands of years, even before the cultivation of beans and corn.

Fresh pumpkin prepared at home will deliver the most benefits for your health, but canned pumpkin is also a great choice. There are many ways to eat more pumpkin. You can use it to replace butter or oil in baked goods, add it to your oatmeal for delicious hot or cold cereal, add it to pancake or french toast batter, or use it in savory dishes such as chili or curries.

Pumpkin is a key ingredient in many soups, breads, treats, and desserts. Pumpkin pie is a staple of traditional Thanksgiving meals in the United States. From French toast to pumpkin lentil soup, we’ve got a delicious selection of recipes to indulge your palate.

Plant-Based Pumpkin Recipe Ideas

Let’s get the feast started with these delicious plant-based pumpkin recipes that your entire family will enjoy!

Pumpkin Breakfast Recipes

Oil-Free Pumpkin Spice Granola

The quinoa in this granola adds a subtle nuttiness and a fuller body. You can enjoy it like any other granola, but the pumpkin elements make it a delicious option to add to autumn desserts.

Vegan Pumpkin French Toast

Sweet, aromatic and full of pumpkin plant-based goodness, this French toast recipe makes for a perfect autumnal breakfast.

Pumpkin Pie Oatmeal Squares

Quick and easy snack with the perfect blend of warm fall spices.

Buttermilk Pumpkin Pie Pancakes

These pancakes are perfect for the festive season! They’re naturally sweet, and their flavors are warm and familiar. And as an added bonus, they’ll fill your kitchen with the lovely aroma of pumpkin pie spice.

Pumpkin Spice Overnight Oats

Ever since being introduced to the world of overnight oats with pumpkin and spices, this recipe has been a favorite! These oats will sustain you for hours and make a delicious snack or dessert.

Healthy Pumpkin Spice Pancakes

These fluffy pumpkin spice pancakes topped with banana, chopped pecans, and maple syrup are a healthy spin on a favorite comfort food. As an added bonus, you can freeze and reheat these pancakes whenever you like.

Pumpkin Main Dishes

Pumpkin Lentil Soup

This hot, delicious soup pairs well with a salad for a nourishing lunch or as a perfect first course. Pumpkin puree adds a creamy richness and body to this comforting soup.

Butternut Squash Tostadas

You can’t just eat one! These Tex-Mex tostadas are simply delicious.

Easy Pasta Primavera

Prepare this delicious plant-based pasta primavera tossed in a creamy “cheesy” sauce in less than 20 minutes. It’s an easy meal packed with nutrition that the entire family will love.

Pumpkin Dessert Recipes

Pumpkin Pie Parfait

This creative twist on the classic pie is sure to impress this fall. It has that familiar blend of autumn spices that gives the pie its flavor, but also a light, refreshing cream sauce for balance.

Chocolate Pumpkin Brownies

These chocolate pumpkin brownies are moist and delicious, gluten-free, nut-free, and soy-free!

Easy Pumpkin Spice Raw Energy Bars

These plant-based granola bars are super nutritious, packed with whole ingredients like pecans, pumpkin seeds, and dates, and without refined grain, sugar, or syrup. They make a great gluten- and oil-free snack.

Pumpkin Pecan Oat Cookies

This easy recipe avoids refined sugar and syrup by using the natural sweetness of bananas. Pumpkin puree keeps them oil-free, while maple extract and pumpkin pie spice add a seasonal flavor.

Super Simple Pumpkin Pie Bites

These have all the flavors of homemade pumpkin pie in a perfect bite-size dessert. Best of all, the ingredients are healthy and plant-based — no dairy, eggs, processed sugar, processed flour, or added oils!