While pumpkin is typically associated with savory dishes like soup and pie, it can also be used to make delicious desserts. When combined with the right ingredients, pumpkin can create rich, sweet, and satisfying treats that are perfect for fall.
One of the best things about pumpkin desserts is that they can be easily made healthy. For example, swapping out refined sugar for maple syrup or honey can help to reduce the overall sugar content. Adding fat-free Greek yogurt or using whole-wheat flour in place of white flour are other simple ways to make a pumpkin dessert healthier.
And of course, loading up on fresh fruit, nuts, and spices helps to add nutrients while boosting flavor. So if you’re looking for some delicious and health-conscious pumpkin desserts this fall, here are a few recipes to try.
Love fall foods?
Check out our best cranberry dishes post.
The pumpkin is a symbol of fall, and there’s no better way to enjoy this delicious fruit than in a dessert. Pumpkins are packed with nutrients like vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, so they’re not only delicious but also good for you. Here are some of the best healthy pumpkin desserts for fall:
Pumpkin Pie Smoothie – This smoothie is made with almond milk, pumpkin puree, banana, and spices. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy the flavor of pumpkin pie without all the calories.
Pumpkin Overnight oats – These oats are made with pumpkin puree, almond milk, Greek yogurt, and spices. They’re perfect for a grab-and-go breakfast or snack.
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies – These cookies are made with whole wheat flour, pumpkin puree, cocoa powder, and chocolate chips. They’re a healthier version of your favorite cookie that you can feel good about eating.
Pumpkin Spice Latte – This latte is made with espresso, milk, pumpkin puree, and spices. It’s a warm and comforting drink that will satisfy your Fall cravings.
Best pumpkin desserts from Smiley's Points
Here at Smiley's Points, we are big fans of pumpkin. You can see some of our best pumpkin recipes here:
- Starbucks copycat pumpkin muffins
- Mini pumpkin waffles with caramelized bananas
- Chocolate pumpkin muffins
- Pumpkin spice cookie dough bites
- Healthy (and delicious) pumpkin fluff
Pumpkin desserts for Thanksgiving and Christmas
While you can definitely eat these desserts year round, we've chosen the ones that will be healthy but still well-received at your holiday gatherings. Nobody wants “diet” foods around the holidays, but we have a program to stick to – so we have to combine the “yum” factor with the “healthy” factor. It's the perfect marriage. 😉
Pumpkin Spice Weight Watchers Muffins
Even if you aren't following the WW plan, you will want to whip these pumpkin spice muffins up. They're simple and easy to make but they have that real pumpkin flavor we crave in the Fall.
Low Calorie Pumpkin Pie
The star of the show: pumpkin pie, but made low calorie? Yes, please!
The sweet, rich flavor of pumpkin is perfect for fall, and the pie crust adds a flaky, buttery touch.
While most pies are made with high-fat ingredients like cream and butter, this low calorie pumpkin pie gets its creaminess from unsweetened almond milk. This makes it a lighter option that is still packed with flavor.
Vegan Pumpkin Brownies
You're not gonna mess with my brownies like that, are you? Pumpkin, in brownies? But, chocolate and pumpkin actually go really well together – try them and you'll see, they're moist and delicious.
The key to getting the perfect balance of flavors is to use high-quality chocolate and pumpkin puree. I like to use dark chocolate for the brownies, and mix in some cinnamon and nutmeg to give them a little something extra.
The pumpkin puree helps to keep the brownies moist and gives them a lovely autumnal flavor. So, if you're looking for a new take on an old classic, why not give pumpkin chocolate brownies a try? You might just be surprised at how good they are.
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cookies
These gluten-free pumpkin cookies are soft and chewy, with just the right amount of sweetness. And the best part is that they are topped with a whipped maple cream cheese frosting. I can't get enough of these cookies!
If you're looking for a delicious way to celebrate Fall, look no further than this recipe. These cookies are sure to please everyone, regardless of their dietary restrictions. So go ahead and give them a try. I promise you won't be disappointed!
Pumpkin Pie Dessert Hummus
We've made hummus with avocados before, but haven't tried it with pumpkin yet.
This Fall-inspired twist on the traditional dish is perfect for dipping sweet breads or gingersnap cookies. The pumpkin hummus can be served as an appetizer at your next gathering, or enjoy it as a healthy snack throughout the week. Your guests will be amazed at how delicious and unique this homemade hummus is.
Pumpkin Ice Cream
Have you ever tried pumpkin ice cream? This recipe is dairy-free and looks super creamy. Drop a comment below if you try it, I really want to know what it tastes like!
Light & Fluffy Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Fit as a Fiddle Life made this light and fluffy pumpkin cake that is super moist with just the right amount of glaze on top. I mean, you can always add extra but… 😉
Imagine a light and fluffy pumpkin cake, moistened with a light glaze – yes, this is it!! The perfect fall treat, this cake is perfect for any occasion.
The rich flavor of the pumpkin pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the glaze, making it a unique and irresistible dessert.