3 Recipes to Use Up Leftover Pumpkin Purée

By
Rachel Knecht
Rachel Knecht
Rachel Knecht
Rachel Knecht turned her home baking into a career in 2016 when she began working as the head baker at The Greenbean Coffeehouse in Seattle, WA. Afterwards, she started Baking with Rachel (her blog), began teaching kids' cooking classes, and recipe tested for the cookbook "Let's Stay In" by Ashley Rodriguez.
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Updated May 15, 2025
Rachel Knecht
Three images side by side. On the left is a loaf of Pumpkin Bread. In the middle is Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars with Streusel Topping being coated in caramel. On the right is Pumpkin Ricotta Gnocchi on a white plate.

My youngest son loves pumpkin muffins so I have a can or two of pumpkin purée in the pantry at all times. Yet, even when I double the recipe, I often have some purée leftover. It ends up stashed, and, sadly, forgotten in the back of the fridge.

I know I can’t be the only one with this problem, but I have a solution and few recipes to help you use up what remains of a partially used can of pumpkin.

Besides using leftover pumpkin for Pumpkin Cookies, it’s also delicious stirred into oatmeal, whisked along with milk and spices for a Pumpkin Spice Latte, or added to smoothies.

If you must freeze it, pumpkin purée lasts 5 to 7 days in the refrigerator and three months in the freezer. Freeze leftovers in containers labeled with the date. For smaller amounts, freeze the puree in ice cube trays and then transfer to a ziplock once frozen.

I’m keeping a list of recipes that I can turn to when I have extra pumpkin to use. I picked recipes that the whole family enjoys, and store well, so that I can have pumpkin-flavored treats whenever the mood strikes.

  • Pumpkin Bread

    moist Pumpkin Bread makes the best pumpkin bread
    Elise Bauer

    Similar to muffins, quick breads are well-loved in my family. It doubles easily, freezes well and will get eaten in record time. I love the addition of orange zest and the glaze that tops the loaf, though neither are necessary for excellent results.

  • Pumpkin Biscotti

    Pumpkin Biscotti
    Elise Bauer

    Biscotti is perfect for your mid-afternoon coffee break. Add cranberries or nuts to the dough or dip in melted chocolate for a decadent option. Store at room temperature for two weeks in an airtight container and enjoy.

  • Pumpkin Waffles

    pumpkin waffles
    Elise Bauer

    Waffles are family-favorites that are easy to double and freeze for future hectic mornings. Cool waffles on a baking rack and freeze them on a baking sheet before moving to a ziplock bag. Rewarm in the toaster on low and serve with applesauce.

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