Fall Flavor Explosion: The Best Pumpkin Recipes & Trader Joe’s Seasonal Favorites

Autumn is here, and with it comes the season of cozy sweaters, crisp air, and all things pumpkin. From savory dishes to sweet treats, pumpkin has become a cornerstone of fall cooking — versatile, comforting, and endlessly satisfying. But if you’re looking to elevate your seasonal menu without spending hours in the kitchen, Trader Joe’s fall and Thanksgiving seasonal products make it easy to bring flavor, festivity, and convenience into your home.

This article is your ultimate guide: the best pumpkin recipes to try this fall and a curated roundup of my favorite Trader Joe’s seasonal items that will take your autumn meals and celebrations to the next level.

Pumpkin Recipes That Make Fall Unforgettable

Pumpkin isn’t just for pie — it’s a versatile ingredient that works beautifully in breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert. Here are the recipes that will make your fall truly delicious.

1. Pumpkin Spice Latte Overnight Oats

Skip the coffee shop line and start your mornings cozy and indulgent.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup rolled oats

• ½ cup unsweetened almond milk

• ¼ cup pumpkin puree

• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice

• 1 tsp maple syrup

• ½ tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tbsp chia seeds

• Optional: whipped cream for topping

Instructions:

1. In a jar, combine oats, almond milk, pumpkin puree, pumpkin pie spice, maple syrup, vanilla, and chia seeds.

2. Stir well, cover, and refrigerate overnight.

3. In the morning, top with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Why it works: A hands-off, healthy breakfast that captures pumpkin spice vibes without caffeine jitters.

2. Savory Pumpkin Risotto

Rich, creamy, and subtly sweet, this pumpkin risotto is perfect as a side dish or a vegetarian main course.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Arborio rice

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp butter

• ½ cup dry white wine

• 3 cups vegetable broth, warmed

• 1 cup pumpkin puree

• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated

• Salt, pepper, and sage leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sauté onion and garlic in butter until translucent.

2. Add rice and cook 1–2 minutes until lightly toasted.

3. Deglaze with white wine, then gradually add broth, stirring continuously.

4. Once rice is creamy and tender, stir in pumpkin puree and Parmesan.

5. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with sage.

Pro tip: A drizzle of browned butter elevates the earthy sweetness of pumpkin.

3. Pumpkin Chili with Black Beans

Warm, hearty, and perfect for chilly evenings.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 bell pepper, diced

• 1 can black beans, drained

• 1 can diced tomatoes

• 1 cup pumpkin puree

• 1 tsp chili powder

• 1 tsp cumin

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper in olive oil until softened.

2. Add black beans, tomatoes, pumpkin, and spices.

3. Simmer 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Serve with sour cream or avocado slices.

Why it works: The pumpkin adds a subtle sweetness that balances the chili spices perfectly.

4. Pumpkin Pancakes with Maple Glaze

Fluffy, tender, and spiced just right.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup flour

• 1 tbsp sugar

• 1 tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp baking soda

• ½ tsp cinnamon

• ¼ tsp nutmeg

• ¼ tsp salt

• ¾ cup milk

• ½ cup pumpkin puree

• 1 egg

• 2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions:

1. Whisk dry ingredients together.

2. In a separate bowl, mix milk, pumpkin, egg, and butter.

3. Combine wet and dry ingredients until just incorporated.

4. Cook pancakes on a greased skillet until bubbles form, then flip.

5. Drizzle with maple glaze: ½ cup powdered sugar + 1–2 tbsp maple syrup + splash of milk.

Pro tip: Add chocolate chips or toasted pecans for extra indulgence.

5. Roasted Pumpkin Mac & Cheese

Comfort food meets fall flavors.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked pasta

• 1 cup pumpkin puree

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup cream cheese

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.

2. Combine pumpkin puree, cheeses, paprika, salt, and pepper in a saucepan until melted and smooth.

3. Mix with cooked pasta and transfer to a baking dish.

4. Bake 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Why it works: The pumpkin adds creaminess and a subtle sweetness that complements the cheddar.

6. Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

A dessert that combines classic cheesecake with autumn flair.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs

• ¼ cup melted butter

• 1 cup pumpkin puree

• ½ cup sugar

• 2 eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice

• 8 oz cream cheese

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.

2. Mix graham cracker crumbs and butter, press into baking dish for crust.

3. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth, add eggs, pumpkin, vanilla, and spice.

4. Pour over crust and bake 30–35 minutes.

5. Chill and cut into bars.

Pro tip: Drizzle with caramel or top with whipped cream for a festive touch.

7. Spiced Pumpkin Latte

No coffee shop needed — this homemade latte rivals the originals.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup milk

• ¼ cup pumpkin puree

• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice

• 1 tbsp sugar

• ½ cup strong brewed coffee or espresso

Instructions:

1. Warm milk, pumpkin, sugar, and spice in a saucepan.

2. Whisk until frothy.

3. Pour over coffee and sprinkle with extra spice or cinnamon.

Trader Joe’s Fall & Thanksgiving Favorites

Trader Joe’s makes seasonal shopping a breeze. Their fall and Thanksgiving items are not just convenient — they’re flavorful, fun, and perfect for entertaining. Here’s a curated list of my favorites.

1. Pumpkin Butter

A smooth, spiced spread that elevates toast, oatmeal, and desserts.

Ways to use:

• Stir into yogurt or overnight oats

• Spread on pancakes or waffles

• Serve alongside a cheese board

2. Pumpkin Spice Joe-Joe’s

A seasonal twist on the classic cookie.

Ways to use:

• Dunk in coffee or hot cocoa

• Crumble over ice cream or yogurt

• Use as a crust for mini pumpkin cheesecakes

3. Harvest Spice Latte Concentrate

Skip the DIY — Trader Joe’s concentrate makes it easy to enjoy pumpkin spice lattes at home.

Ways to use:

• Mix with milk for a latte

• Add a shot to desserts for flavor boost

• Stir into oatmeal for spice

4. Pumpkin & Sage Ravioli

Fresh, filled pasta that’s perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a Thanksgiving appetizer.

Ways to serve:

• Toss with browned butter and sage

• Top with toasted walnuts and Parmesan

• Pair with a simple salad for a full meal

5. Candied Pecan Pumpkin Bread

Seasonal breads are a must-have — Trader Joe’s offers a moist, flavorful option.

Ways to serve:

• Toast slices for breakfast

• Serve alongside coffee or tea

• Make mini bread puddings for dessert

6. Pumpkin Mac & Cheese

Trader Joe’s seasonal mac & cheese takes comfort food to the next level.

Ways to serve:

• Add roasted vegetables for a side dish

• Top with crispy breadcrumbs

• Serve as a fun appetizer in small ramekins

7. Autumnal Cheeses & Charcuterie

Trader Joe’s seasonal cheese blends and cured meats are perfect for fall entertaining.

Highlights:

• Smoked Gouda or Pumpkin Cheddar

• Prosciutto and dried meats

• Pair with apple slices, nuts, and fig jam

8. Butternut Squash Soup

Smooth, creamy, and ideal for a fall starter.

Ways to serve:

• Heat and top with roasted pepitas

• Swirl in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche

• Serve in small cups for a cocktail-hour starter

9. Seasonal Spices & Mixes

Trader Joe’s offers blends like Pumpkin Pie Spice, Everything But The Pie, and Autumnal Mulled Wine Spice Mix.

Ways to use:

• Sprinkle on roasted veggies or nuts

• Stir into baked goods or coffee

• Add to cocktails for seasonal flair

10. Holiday Treat Packs

Seasonal snacks like mini pumpkin cookies, chocolate-covered pretzels, and pumpkin-shaped gummies are perfect for gifting or party platters.

Bringing It All Together — Fall Entertaining Made Easy

Combining homemade pumpkin recipes with Trader Joe’s seasonal finds makes hosting and entertaining effortless. Here’s how to elevate your fall gatherings:

• Appetizer Board: Combine Trader Joe’s autumn cheeses, charcuterie, pumpkin butter, and seasonal nuts.

• Dinner: Roast pumpkin risotto or ravioli as the centerpiece with sides like mac & cheese and roasted Brussels sprouts.

• Dessert: Mini pumpkin cheesecake bars paired with Pumpkin Spice Joe-Joe’s.

• Drinks: Serve spiced lattes or Harvest Spice Latte Concentrate drinks in festive mugs.

Pro tip: Create a table that reflects fall colors and textures — linen napkins, wooden boards, candles, and seasonal decor — for an Instagram-worthy setup.

Fall is the perfect time to celebrate comfort, flavor, and creativity. From hearty, spiced dishes to indulgent pumpkin desserts, these recipes will make your season unforgettable. Pair them with Trader Joe’s seasonal products, and you’ve got a simple, delicious, and festive formula for fall entertaining.

Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or cozy nights at home, pumpkin is the ultimate ingredient to make this season feel warm, inviting, and delicious. So grab your Trader Joe’s favorites, get your apron on, and let fall flavors shine!