As the leaves change and the air cools, there’s one ingredient that signals the start of fall
more than any other—pumpkin! Packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants, pumpkin is not only delicious but also a powerhouse of nutrients. It’s versatile too, working well in both savory and sweet dishes. Whether you’re looking for a cozy breakfast, a comforting soup, or a tasty treat, pumpkin spice can be your go-to fall flavor. Here are four affordable and easy-to-make pumpkin recipes to celebrate the season.
Pumpkin Bread
Warm, moist, and full of spice, pumpkin bread is a classic fall staple. Enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect autumn snack.
Ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups flour (whole wheat or all-purpose)
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup oil (or applesauce for a lighter option)
- 2 tsp pumpkin spice mix
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 flax eggs (2 tbsp flaxseed meal + 6 tbsp water)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a loaf pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the flax eggs, pumpkin puree, oil, brown sugar, and vanilla.
3. In another bowl, mix the flour, pumpkin spice, baking soda, and salt.
4. Gradually combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring until just mixed.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cool, slice, and enjoy!
Cost per loaf: Around $5
Pumpkin Spice Pancakes
Start your morning with a stack of fluffy, spiced pumpkin pancakes. They’re perfect for a cozy weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup flour (whole wheat or all-purpose)
- ½ cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp pumpkin spice mix
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 cup plant-based milk (almond or oat)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the plant-based milk and apple cider vinegar. Let sit for 5 minutes to curdle.
2. In a separate bowl, mix the flour, sugar, pumpkin spice, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the pumpkin puree and vanilla to the milk mixture, then combine with the dry ingredients.
4. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and pour ¼ cup of batter for each pancake. Cook until bubbles form, then flip and cook the other side.
5. Serve with maple syrup and enjoy!
Cost per batch: Around $3
Coconut Pumpkin Soup
This creamy coconut pumpkin soup is a savory take on the classic fall flavor. It’s rich, comforting, and perfect for those chilly nights.
Ingredients:
- 1 can coconut milk
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ginger powder (or fresh ginger, minced)
- 1 tsp curry powder
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Stir in the ginger and curry powder, cooking for another minute.
3. Add the pumpkin puree, coconut milk, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the soup to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes.
5. Blend the soup with an immersion blender (or carefully transfer to a blender) until smooth.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm.
Cost per pot: Around $6
Pumpkin Spice Latte
You don’t need to head to a coffee shop to enjoy this seasonal favorite. Here’s a homemade, budget-friendly version of the beloved pumpkin spice latte.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup plant-based milk (oat or almond)
- ¼ cup brewed coffee or espresso
- 2 tbsp canned pumpkin puree
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (or sweetener of choice)
- ½ tsp pumpkin spice mix
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a small pot, heat the plant-based milk, pumpkin puree, maple syrup, and pumpkin spice over medium heat. Whisk until combined and warmed through.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
3. Brew your coffee or espresso, then pour it into a mug.
4. Pour the pumpkin milk mixture over the coffee and stir.
5. Top with a sprinkle of pumpkin spice, and enjoy your homemade latte!
Cost per latte: Around $2
These four pumpkin spice recipes are not only delicious but also easy on the wallet. Whether you’re whipping up a cozy breakfast, warming soup, or a sweet treat, pumpkin is the perfect way to embrace the flavors of fall. Enjoy these recipes as you celebrate the season!
Danni McGhee Bio
Danni McGhee is a plant-based nutrition coach, food educator, and author. Her brand, DAM Good Vegan, is an educational platform dedicated to inspiring and encouraging individuals to choose a plant-based vegan diet for optimal health & overall well-being. She is passionate about making vegan food simple, affordable, and DAM Good!
She provides support and guidance on the principles of plant-based nutrition while introducing fun and easy ways to incorporate healthier options into your already busy lifestyle. When you work with her, you will be empowered and equipped with all the knowledge and tools you need to make healthier choices every day. For recipes, support and transition tips, visit her website ReadyToGoVegan.com!
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