As the leaves start to turn and the crisp autumn air sets in, our thoughts naturally turn to warm, comforting dishes that showcase the season’s star ingredient: sugar pumpkins. These sweet and versatile gourds are a staple of fall cooking, and for good reason – their sweet, slightly nutty flavor pairs perfectly with a wide range of spices and ingredients. From savory stews and soups to sweet baked goods and desserts, sugar pumpkins are the ultimate canvas for creative cooks. In this article, we’ll explore 18 cozy sugar pumpkin recipes that are sure to become new fall favorites.
Roasted Sugar Pumpkin Soup with Sage
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup, perfect for the fall season. Roasting the pumpkin brings out its natural sweetness, which is balanced by the earthy notes of sage.
Ingredients:
– 1 small sugar pumpkin (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the pumpkin in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
5. Add roasted pumpkin, broth, heavy cream, butter, and sage. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat and let cook for 15-20 minutes, or until soup has reached desired consistency.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Spiced Sugar Pumpkin Pancakes
These pancakes are a delicious twist on classic breakfast treats, infused with the warmth of pumpkin and spices. Perfect for a cozy fall morning or brunch gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, combine pumpkin puree, egg, milk, melted butter, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. The batter should still be slightly lumpy.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop 1/4 cup of batter onto the pan.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges start to dry.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 pancakes, depending on size.
Creamy Sugar Pumpkin Risotto
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this comforting and creamy risotto recipe, featuring roasted pumpkin and a hint of sugar.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small pumpkin (about 1 pound), peeled, seeded, and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss pumpkin with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes.
5. Gradually add warmed broth, stirring constantly, until rice is cooked and creamy (about 20-25 minutes).
6. Stir in roasted pumpkin, butter, Parmesan cheese, sugar, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Sugar Pumpkin and Kale Quinoa Salad
This vibrant salad celebrates the flavors of autumn, with roasted sugar pumpkin and curly kale paired with nutty quinoa and a tangy dressing. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water
– 1 small sugar pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: toasted pecans or walnuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups water.
3. Toss pumpkin cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted pumpkin, and chopped kale.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar and honey. Pour dressing over the quinoa mixture; toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with toasted nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Maple Glazed Sugar Pumpkin Wedges
Elevate your fall gatherings with these sweet and savory pumpkin wedges, perfectly balanced by the richness of maple syrup. This easy recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 small sugar pumpkin (about 2 lbs), cut into 8-10 wedges
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Brush the pumpkin wedges with melted butter, then spoon the maple glaze evenly over each wedge.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sugar Pumpkin Bread with Walnuts
This sweet bread recipe combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin puree with the crunch of walnuts, perfect for a cozy fall morning or afternoon pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine sugar, pumpkin puree, and butter. Beat until smooth.
4. Add egg, vanilla extract, and flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
5. Fold in walnuts.
6. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Pumpkin Sage Pasta with Roasted Sugar Pumpkin
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this comforting pasta dish featuring roasted sugar pumpkin and savory sage.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., pappardelle, fettuccine)
– 1 small sugar pumpkin (about 2 lbs.), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss pumpkin cubes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped sage leaves; cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
5. Combine roasted pumpkin, cooked pasta, and sage butter in the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Sugar Pumpkin and Black Bean Chili
This autumn-inspired chili combines the natural sweetness of sugar pumpkins with the savory flavors of black beans, onions, and spices. Perfect for a cozy evening or a crowd-pleasing potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium sugar pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper in a little water until tender.
2. Add the pumpkin, black beans, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Baked Sugar Pumpkin Oatmeal
Start your day off right with this sweet and comforting baked oatmeal recipe, infused with the warm spices of pumpkin pie. This treat is perfect for a chilly fall morning or as a delicious breakfast-for-dinner option.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
– Butter, melted (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine oats, pumpkin puree, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg and milk until well combined. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
3. Pour the mixture into a 6-inch baking dish or ramekin.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the oatmeal is set and lightly golden brown.
5. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Optional: top with melted butter and additional pumpkin pie spice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sugar Pumpkin Pie with Ginger Crust
This recipe combines the classic flavors of pumpkin pie with the spicy warmth of ginger, all wrapped up in a crumbly crust. Perfect for a chilly fall evening or a holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup crystallized ginger, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
For the filling:
– 1 cup cooked and mashed sugar pumpkin (about 1 small to medium-sized pumpkin)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 2 large eggs
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, combine flour and chopped ginger. Add butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work it into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add water, stirring with a fork until dough forms.
3. Roll out crust on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Transfer to a 9-inch pie dish and trim edges to fit.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together pumpkin, cream, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Beat in eggs until well combined.
5. Pour filling into crust and smooth top. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is set.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sugar Pumpkin Curry with Coconut Milk
This sweet and savory curry is a perfect blend of Indian spices, coconut milk, and the natural sweetness of sugar pumpkin. It’s a unique twist on traditional pumpkin soup, sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 small sugar pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger until softened.
2. Add pumpkin, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the pumpkin is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Slow Cooker Sugar Pumpkin Butter
Transform canned pumpkin into a deliciously sweet and creamy spread perfect for topping toast, muffins, or using as a dip. This slow cooker recipe is a game-changer for fall baking and snacking.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15 oz) can of pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and salt. Stir until well combined.
2. Add heavy cream, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir again to ensure all ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Remove from slow cooker and let cool slightly before transferring to an airtight container.
5. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Sugar Pumpkin and Goat Cheese Tart
A sweet and savory tart that combines the flavors of roasted sugar pumpkin with tangy goat cheese, perfect for a fall or winter gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 small sugar pumpkin (about 2 lbs)
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/4 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the sugar pumpkin in a separate pan with 1 tablespoon of butter until tender, about 30 minutes.
3. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Spread goat cheese over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Arrange roasted pumpkin slices on top of goat cheese.
6. Fold edges of pastry up and press gently to seal.
7. Brush melted butter over pastry and sprinkle with cinnamon.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramelized Sugar Pumpkin Galette
This seasonal galette celebrates the warm flavors of caramelized sugar and roasted pumpkin, perfect for a cozy fall evening. With its flaky crust and sweet-savory filling, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 small sugar pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to prepared baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, combine pumpkin, sugar, butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix well.
4. Arrange the pumpkin mixture over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the pastry up over the filling, creating a rustic galette shape.
6. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tbsp water) for golden glaze.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden and pumpkin is tender.
Sugar Pumpkin Muffins with Cinnamon Streusel
Sweet and spicy, these Sugar Pumpkin Muffins with Cinnamon Streusel are the perfect fall treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Cinnamon Streusel topping (see below)
– Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add pumpkin puree, milk, egg, and melted butter; stir until just combined.
4. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
5. Prepare Cinnamon Streusel topping (see below) and sprinkle on top of each muffin.
Cinnamon Streusel Topping:
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Mix dry ingredients and butter until crumbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Sugar Pumpkin and Lentil Stew
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious stew, perfect for a chilly fall evening. The sweetness of sugar pumpkins pairs beautifully with the earthy flavor of lentils, making it a delightful twist on traditional stews.
Ingredients:
– 1 sugar pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using); cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the sugar pumpkin, lentils, and vegetable broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Roasted Sugar Pumpkin Seeds with Smoked Paprika
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin seeds with the depth of smoked paprika. Perfect for a quick and easy snack or as a topping for salads, soups, or entrees.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sugar pumpkin seeds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rinse the pumpkin seeds and remove any excess pulp.
3. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
4. Add the pumpkin seeds to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the spice mixture.
5. Spread the seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet.
6. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until fragrant and crispy, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Sugar Pumpkin with Balsamic Glaze
Perfect for fall gatherings or a cozy evening meal, this sweet and tangy pumpkin dish is sure to impress. The smoky flavor from the grill pairs beautifully with the rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 sugar pumpkin (about 2 lbs), cut into 1-inch thick slices
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush pumpkin slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill pumpkin slices for 5-7 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, warm balsamic glaze in a small saucepan over low heat.
5. Once the pumpkin is cooked, brush it with the warmed balsamic glaze.
6. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get cozy this fall with these 18 delicious sugar pumpkin recipes! From comforting soups and risottos to sweet breads and pies, there’s something for everyone. Try roasting your own sugar pumpkin and blending it into a creamy soup with sage, or make a batch of spiced pancakes for a tasty breakfast treat. Other highlights include quinoa salads, maple-glazed wedges, and even a savory black bean chili. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or savory, these recipes are sure to warm your heart and belly this autumn.
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