7 kid-friendly ways to use canned pumpkin (beyond pumpkin pie!)

Jessica D'Argenio Waller, MS, CNS, LDN
·3 min read

Pumpkin-everything starts to hit the aisles as soon as the calender flips to September—and you can practically smell all the subsequent pumpkin breads and PSLs and pies just walking down the block. But canned pumpkin has way more staying power than just one season—and I think we should cook with it well beyond Thanksgiving. There’s so much more you can do with canned pumpkin that’s sure to delight your kiddos and pack in essential nutrients. Pumpkin is not just a sweet treat; it’s also a nutritional powerhouse. And canned pumpkin couldn’t be more convenient when it comes to whipping up everything from pumpkin smoothies to pancakes.

Nutritional benefits of canned pumpkin

Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about the incredible health benefits of pumpkin. Canned pumpkin is a fantastic source of vitamins and minerals: One cup of canned pumpkin provides over 200% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin A, essential for maintaining healthy vision and a robust immune system. Pumpkin is also rich in fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a sense of fullness, which can be a helpful tool if you’ve got a picky eater on your hands. Just be sure you’re picking up pumpkin puree (just pumpkin) and not pumpkin pie filling, which has additional ingredients.

Canned pumpkin, once opened, can last a few days in the fridge, or up to 3 months in the freezer (just move it into an airtight container first).

Here are our favorite kid-approved pumpkin recipes that go beyond pie.

7 canned pumpkin recipes kids will love

Pumpkin pancakes

Start your weekend with fluffy pumpkin pancakes. Simply add canned pumpkin puree to your pancake batter for an extra burst of flavor, fiber and nutrition. Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for a wholesome breakfast.

Try it: Perfect pumpkin pancakes

Pumpkin smoothies

Blend canned pumpkin with banana, oat milk, ice and a pinch of cinnamon for a creamy and nutritious smoothie. It’s an excellent way to sneak in some veggies while satisfying your child’s sweet tooth.

Try it: Pumpkin banana smoothie

Pumpkin mac ‘n’ cheese

Upgrade the classic mac ‘n’ cheese by stirring in a ½ cup to 1 cup of canned pumpkin into your kid’s favorite box mix, or try the made-from-scratch version below. The creamy texture and mild pumpkin flavor will have your kids asking for seconds, and you’ll love the added vitamin A and fiber.

Try it: One pot stove-top pumpkin mac and cheese

Pumpkin soup

Warm, comforting and incredibly nutritious, pumpkin soup is a must-try. Add a dash of nutmeg and a swirl of Greek yogurt to make it creamier (and kid-approved).

Try it: Creamy pumpkin soup with yogurt

Pumpkin energy bites

Make healthy snacks by mixing canned pumpkin with oats, honey and a sprinkle of chocolate chips. Roll them into bite-sized balls, and you’ve got a tasty and energizing treat for school lunches or after-school snacks

Try it: No-bake pumpkin spice energy bites

Pumpkin muffins

Pumpkin muffins are a hit with kids and a great way to sneak in some veggies. Use canned pumpkin to keep muffins moist and flavorful, and add some raisins or chopped nuts if you’re looking for a little extra texture.

Try it: Healthy pumpkin muffins recipe

Pumpkin pasta sauce

Swap out your regular pasta sauce with a pumpkin-infused version. Your little ones will be surprised by the rich, velvety taste, and you’ll love the extra vitamins they’re getting. For a dairy free version, sub in coconut milk for half-and-half.

Try it: Creamy pumpkin pasta 

Incorporating canned pumpkin into your family’s diet is a smart and delicious choice. Not only are these recipes a hit with kids, but they also offer a wealth of health benefits. Celebrate the versatility of canned pumpkin and create memorable meals that your kids will love—in addition to that beautiful pumpkin pie in your future. What’s your favorite way to use canned pumpkin? Let us know in the comments.