During a recent vacation, my sister and I were discussing where the obsession with pumpkin spice came from. September hits, and suddenly everything is pumpkin-flavored, specifically pumpkin spice. So from one pumpkin spice-obsessed mom to another, it’s always helpful to have some festive fall treats for the kids. Even better when the adults like them as well!
You may have a recipe for one of these treats, but if you need one and don’t want to search the depths of Google, I am including links to all the recommended treats I’m sharing below.
Now, here are some of my go-to pumpkin spice treat favorites, as well as some new ones I plan to try this fall:
Start with your own pumpkin spice seasoning.
This is something you can add to a range of foods and drinks to get into the sweater and boot season. For the mamas, spice up a coffee or maybe a white Russian to add a pumpkin flair. For the kiddos, maybe pumpkin milk or cocoa would be a fun little treat! I also like to add it to my toast or season pumpkin seeds to change things up a bit.
Pumpkin Bread
As the weather starts to cool down and the leaves turn red, yellow, and orange, we can’t help but think about apples, pumpkins, and cool fall flavors. I love stopping into local bakeries and picking up a pumpkin roll or whoopie pie. Even just browsing and checking out the breads and sweet treats is a good time.
I have made pumpkin bread several times, but I cannot wait to try this twist on a favorite! Pumpkin Nutella Swirl Bread combines two amazing flavors, so how can it be anything other than fantastic?
Pumpkin Cheescake Lasagna
Here is another I haven’t made myself, but I’ve had at a friend’s get-together. Pumpkin Cheesecake Lasagna is a sweet dessert with the perfect amount of pumpkin, caramel, pecans, and whipped cream. I highly recommend making this for the family or your next fall gathering.
Pumpkin Oat Bars
Pumpkin Oat Bars are a tasty, sweet bite that can still be considered a healthy breakfast option. There are so many options for oat-based bars or balls. These pumpkin ones are a must-try for the pumpkin spice lovers out there. Doctor them up with some added nuts, seeds, or caramel, or tone down the pumpkin to suit your taste buds. These are a great make-ahead treat that you can throw in your bag on the go, too!
Pumpkin Crisp
Who doesn’t love a warm apple crisp after dinner on a cool night? Maybe someone, but most people seem to love it. Well, how about switching it up for a Pumpkin Crisp instead? This is a recipe I never would have thought to try because apples are tried and true. But again, how can I say no to all things pumpkin spice?
Weekend Breakfast Treats
We often make pancakes or French toast on a weekend morning when we have time to relax and enjoy breakfast instead of rushing out the door for school and work. Pumpkin French Toast (or pancakes) is a delicious treat. Whether you like them with some butter, maple syrup, or powdered sugar, pumpkin goes with it all.
While we’re talking weekend breakfast treats, Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls are a must-have at your next friends and family brunch this month or next! An ooey gooey cinnamon roll just cannot be beat!
Pumpkin Treats
My final recommendations go hand in hand. They are party favorites and on the lighter side. Pumpkin Pie Dip and Pumpkin Mousse are both light and fluffy treats. You can eat them in small amounts or have yourself a large portion if you’re in the mood for it. Either way, these are yummy and easy to make. Your kids will love the airy mousse as much as they love dipping their favorite snacks (we like vanilla wafers or graham crackers) in the pumpkin pie dip.
This list is by no means comprehensive in regards to all that is out there for tasty pumpkin treats, but it is a hit in my house and at gatherings I have attended for adults and kids alike! Happy Pumpkin Season!
