Did autumn ever really call dibs on pumpkin?

This darling of festive fall foodsthe shining star ofHalloween decorand inspiration for the cult-following ofpumpkin-spice-everythingdeserves better.

Recipes with pumpkin range from the familiar sweet-spiced desserts to the unexpected creamy cocktail and savory sandwiches.

overhead of pumpkin pie with slice out on a blue linen surface

Photo: Greg DuPree

We guarantee you’ll find ways to use versatile, affordable,nutrient-packedpumpkin year-round.

Allow at least two hours to chill before serving.

If you’re in a time crunch, prepare this creamy cake up to two days ahead.

Pumpkin Cheesecake

John Kernick

Pumpkin Spice Bread

Give your banana bread recipe a rest!

And don’t even get us started on its delectable streusel-pumpkin seed topping!

Here it’s the star of a garlicky cream sauce that bathes ricotta-filled pasta topped with sage-infused mozzarella.

Pumpkin Spice Bread Recipe

Victor Protasio

It’s nearly impossiblenotto go back for seconds.

With a Speculoos cookie crust and a spiced pumpkin filling, they’re bound to be a hit.

Just add pumpkin puree and, once baked and cooled, top with cream cheese frosting and candy corn.

Pumpkin Cream Sandwiches

Beatriz da Costa

(No one needs to know your timesaving secret.)

Enjoy this dish solo, or serve it alongside grilled salmon, planks of crispy tofu, orgrilled steak.

Top View of Maple Pumpkin Pie on Top of Purple Fabric with Two Metal Forks Next to It

David Prince

Ricotta Roll-Ups In Creamy Pumpkin Sauce

Victor Protasio

No Bake Pumpkin Pie Recipe

Greg DuPree

Turkey-Pumpkin Chili Recipe

Caitlin Bensel

Pumpkin Swirl Cheesecake Bars

Greg DuPree

Pumpkin Muffins

Grace Elkus

Pumpkin Cupcakes With Cream Cheese Frosting

John Kernick

Pumpkin Bread

Sang An

Ginger-Pumpkin Mini Pies With Speculoos Crust and Whipped Cream

Jennifer Causey

Spiced Pumpkin Cake

José Picayo

Feta and Watermelon Grain Bowls Recipe

Caitlin Bensel

Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

Grace Elkus

pumpkin bread trifle with pepita streusel

Antonis Achilleos

Savory-seedy-granola

Greg DuPree; Food Stylist: Chelsea Zimmer; Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen