MomSkoop
Fall brings the delicious aroma of pumpkin-flavored treats into our kitchens. But who has time for complicated recipes with long baking times? These quick pumpkin desserts deliver maximum flavor with minimum effort. Perfect for last-minute gatherings or satisfying those sudden sweet cravings, each recipe comes together in half an hour or less.
1. Microwave Pumpkin Mug Cake
From craving to first bite in just five minutes! This fluffy single-serving cake combines canned pumpkin puree with pantry staples like flour, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice. The microwave transforms the mixture into a warm, spiced treat.
A dollop of whipped cream or scoop of vanilla ice cream makes it extra special. Kids love watching it rise in the microwave – almost like a science experiment you can eat!
Perfect for those nights when you need something sweet but don’t want to heat up the kitchen or wash a sink full of dishes.
2. No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Balls
Bite-sized heaven rolled into perfect little spheres! Mix cream cheese, pumpkin puree, graham cracker crumbs, powdered sugar, and spices until smooth. Roll into balls, then coat with crushed graham crackers, chopped nuts, or white chocolate.
Store these treats in the fridge for quick snacking. The flavor actually improves after a day, as the spices meld together beautifully.
Great for parties since you can make them ahead of time. One batch yields about 20 balls – though they disappear so quickly, you might want to double the recipe!
3. Pumpkin Spice Rice Krispie Treats
Remember those gooey marshmallow squares from childhood? This grown-up version adds pumpkin puree and warm spices to the classic recipe. The familiar snap-crackle-pop gets a fall makeover that’s irresistibly chewy.
The secret is cooking the marshmallows with butter, pumpkin, and spices before folding in the cereal. For extra decadence, drizzle with white chocolate after setting.
Cut them into pumpkin shapes using cookie cutters for a festive touch. Orange food coloring makes them look even more seasonal – perfect for Halloween parties or lunchbox surprises!
4. Two-Ingredient Pumpkin Brownies
Baking magic happens when you combine just a box of brownie mix and a can of pumpkin puree – nothing else needed! The pumpkin replaces the eggs, oil, and water typically called for on the box, creating fudgy, moist brownies with less fat.
The earthiness of pumpkin balances perfectly with chocolate’s richness. Sprinkle with chocolate chips before baking for extra indulgence.
These brownies develop an almost truffle-like texture when chilled overnight in the fridge. A dusting of powdered sugar on top creates a beautiful contrast against the dark chocolate background.
5. Pumpkin Pie Parfaits
Layer store-bought vanilla pudding with pumpkin puree mixed with spices and brown sugar for an instant deconstructed pie experience! Crushed graham crackers or gingersnaps between layers add that essential crust element.
Assemble in clear glasses to showcase the pretty layers. The contrast between creamy filling and crunchy cookies creates an exciting texture adventure in every spoonful.
Make a parfait bar where family members can build their own desserts. Set out toppings like whipped cream, caramel sauce, and chopped nuts so everyone can customize their treat exactly how they like it!
6. Pumpkin Spice Dip with Fresh Fruit
This creamy, spiced dip transforms ordinary apple slices into a special treat. Whip together cream cheese, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and pumpkin pie spice until light and fluffy – no cooking required!
Serve with crisp apple wedges, pear slices, or graham crackers for dipping. The tangy cream cheese balances the sweetness of the fruit perfectly.
For a prettier presentation, hollow out a small pumpkin and use it as your serving bowl. This crowd-pleaser works equally well as an after-school snack or elegant party appetizer that even picky eaters will love.
7. Pumpkin Spice Cookie Cups
Start with store-bought sugar cookie dough pressed into mini muffin tins to create edible cups. While still warm from the oven, make an indentation in each cup using the back of a spoon.
Fill with a quick mixture of cream cheese, pumpkin puree, powdered sugar and spices. The warm cookie cups slightly melt the filling, creating a heavenly texture contrast.
These bite-sized treats look fancy but come together in minutes. The buttery cookie “crust” paired with creamy pumpkin filling mimics the flavors of pumpkin pie without all the work!
8. Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Skillet Cookie
One giant cookie beats a dozen small ones when you’re short on time! Mix pumpkin puree into your favorite chocolate chip cookie dough, spread in a cast-iron skillet, and bake until the edges are crispy but the center remains soft and gooey.
The skillet creates a beautiful contrast between the crunchy edge and molten middle. Vanilla ice cream melts deliciously into the warm cookie when served immediately.
Skip the scooping and rolling of individual cookies completely. This rustic dessert goes straight from oven to table – just add spoons and let everyone dig in for a communal dessert experience!
9. Maple-Pumpkin Pudding Shots
Adults-only pumpkin treats with a kick! Instant vanilla pudding mixed with pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, maple syrup and a splash of spiced rum creates a sophisticated dessert in minutes.
Serve in shot glasses topped with cinnamon whipped cream for elegant presentation. The boozy hint elevates this from ordinary pudding to dinner party-worthy indulgence.
Make these up to two days ahead and store covered in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve with time, making them perfect for busy hosts who need make-ahead options that still impress guests.
10. Air Fryer Pumpkin Hand Pies
Your air fryer creates perfectly golden, flaky pastries in minutes! Start with refrigerated pie crust cut into circles, then fill with a quick mixture of pumpkin puree, brown sugar, and spices.
Fold over, crimp edges with a fork, and air fry for about 8 minutes. The result is individual pies with crispy exteriors and warm, spiced filling that tastes like you spent hours baking.
A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk drizzled over the warm pies adds sweetness and visual appeal. These portable treats are perfect for enjoying while watching football or taking on fall hikes!