Thanksgiving might be over, but the warmth of the season lingers for me. It’s my favorite day of the year — a celebration of family, food, and gratitude that fills me with pure joy.
I love every part of it: the planning, the bustle beforehand, the meal itself, and the quiet happy days that follow. In this season of togetherness it’s helpful to have a few quick, reliable recipes on hand—perfect for last-minute guests, an unexpected treat for the kids, or a cozy indulgence once the little ones are asleep.
Few flavors evoke Thanksgiving like pumpkin. I’ve been baking and blending pumpkin treats constantly, but nothing matches the simplicity and comfort of this thick, velvety Pumpkin Cheesecake Milkshake.
Inspired by a pumpkin smoothie in The Pioneer Woman’s holiday cookbook, this shake is creamy, pumpkin-forward, and indulgent — yet it comes together in minutes. It’s a perfect dessert or snack when you want something festive without the fuss.
Dishes that Make a Difference
On a recent trip to Ecuador with World Vision I met Diana, a single mother caring for her children and her aging father. She welcomed us into her home and served a meal made from vegetables she grows, including a pumpkin soup from a pumpkin she picked in her garden. That visit tied pumpkin to deeper memories for me: food, community, and the powerful impact of programs that teach families how to grow their own food.
Now, every time I enjoy pumpkin I think of that courtyard full of children and the meaningful connections formed during that trip. If you’re looking for ways to give this season, World Vision’s gift catalog and sponsorship opportunities support families and help bring food and hope to communities around the world.
Becoming “Chosen” by a child is one of the most meaningful things I’ve done; it felt like a true gift both to the child and to me. If you’re inspired to add a charitable tradition to your holidays, consider sponsoring or giving a food-related gift to someone in need.
For more food ideas inspired by our time in Ecuador, friends have shared recipes you might enjoy: fruit and nut chocolate bark, Puerto Rican fried rice, and a baby kale salad — all dishes that reflect the joy of sharing food across cultures.
If you love pumpkin, explore other favorites like Pumpkin Spice Chai Latte with real pumpkin, pumpkin cinnamon swirl bread, pumpkin cheesecake ice cream, and layered pumpkin cheesecake with salted caramel.
Pumpkin Cheesecake Milkshake
Add all ingredients (except the graham crackers) to a blender and process on high until smooth. The shake will be thick and creamy.
Divide among three glasses and garnish with crushed graham crackers, if desired.
Pumpkin Cheesecake Milkshake
Rebecca Lindamood
Ingredients
- 1 can pumpkin puree 15 ounce, not pumpkin pie filling
- 1 1/2 cups vanilla ice cream
- 1 cup milk
- 4 ounces Philadelphia Cream Cheese Regular or 1/3 Less fat
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar packed
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 small pinch ground cloves
Optional for garnish:
- Crushed graham crackers
Instructions
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Add all ingredients (except for the graham crackers) to a blender and blend on HIGH just until the mixture is smooth. It will be thick.
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Divide between three glasses and garnish with crushed graham crackers, if desired.
Nutritional information is an estimate and provided as a courtesy. Calculate exact nutrition using the ingredients you use and your preferred nutrition calculator.
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This post was originally published November 2013 and updated December 2019.