Pumpkin Pecan Frozen Yogurt: A Cool Twist on a Fall Favorite

Move over pumpkin pie — there’s a new autumn dessert in town! If you’re craving the cozy flavors of fall but want something cool, creamy, and a little lighter, this Pumpkin Pecan Frozen Yogurt is your perfect match. It’s made with real pumpkin puree, tangy Greek yogurt, warm spices, and crunchy pecans — all swirled into a creamy, frozen treat that tastes like pumpkin pie in a scoop.

Whether you’re trying to cut back on heavy desserts, looking for a post-dinner treat that’s easy on the waistline, or just want to try something new, this frozen yogurt delivers fall flavor with a refreshing twist.

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Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Pecan Frozen Yogurt

🎃 Bursting with real pumpkin flavor and fall spices
🥄 Creamy and satisfying with less fat than ice cream
🥣 Made with simple ingredients — no artificial stuff
🌰 Loaded with crunchy toasted pecans
❄️ Great for make-ahead desserts or post-holiday meals
💪 Naturally high in protein thanks to Greek yogurt
🍨 Easy to customize with toppings or mix-ins

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Ingredients for Pumpkin Pecan Frozen Yogurt

You only need a few pantry staples and a blender (or food processor) to whip this up!

🍦 Base Ingredients:

• 2 cups plain Greek yogurt (whole milk or 2% for best creaminess)
• 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• ½ cup pure maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ tsp pumpkin pie spice (or mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
• Pinch of salt

🌰 For the Mix-Ins:

• ½ to ¾ cup toasted pecans, roughly chopped
• Optional: mini chocolate chips, granola, or crushed graham crackers

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Equipment You’ll Need

• Blender or food processor
• Ice cream maker (optional but recommended)
• Freezer-safe container with lid
• Rubber spatula

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How to Make Pumpkin Pecan Frozen Yogurt

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Step 1: Toast the Pecans (Optional but Recommended)

To bring out their nutty flavor, toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until fragrant. Let cool and chop coarsely.

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Step 2: Blend the Frozen Yogurt Base

In a blender or food processor, combine:

• Greek yogurt
• Pumpkin puree
• Maple syrup or honey
• Vanilla extract
• Pumpkin pie spice
• Salt

Blend until smooth and creamy.

🧑‍🍳 Taste and adjust sweetness or spice to your preference.

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Step 3: Churn or Freeze

Option 1: Ice Cream Maker

1. Pour mixture into a pre-chilled ice cream maker.
2. Churn according to manufacturer instructions (usually 20–25 minutes).
3. In the last few minutes, add chopped pecans.

Option 2: No-Churn Method

1. Fold chopped pecans into the blended mixture.
2. Pour into a freezer-safe container and smooth the top.
3. Cover tightly and freeze for 4–6 hours, stirring once or twice in the first 2 hours to reduce ice crystals.

❄️ Let sit at room temp for 5–10 minutes before scooping for best texture.

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Serving Suggestions

🍯 Drizzle with maple syrup or caramel sauce
🥣 Sprinkle extra pecans or granola on top
🍫 Add mini chocolate chips for a sweet crunch
🥧 Serve in waffle cones or alongside pumpkin pie
🧁 Scoop over a warm apple crisp for a seasonal mash-up

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Make It Your Own: Variations & Add-Ins

🍫 Chocolate Pumpkin Yogurt – Stir in mini chocolate chips or cocoa nibs
🥥 Coconut Pumpkin Yogurt – Add coconut flakes and a splash of coconut milk
🍌 Pumpkin Banana Froyo – Blend in half a ripe banana for extra creaminess
🧁 Graham Cracker Crumble – Mix in crushed graham crackers for pumpkin pie vibes
🌰 Maple Walnut Version – Swap pecans for toasted walnuts and use maple syrup

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Storage Tips

• Store in a freezer-safe container with a tight lid
• Best texture if eaten within 1–2 weeks
• If it hardens too much, let thaw slightly before scooping
• Add parchment paper directly on top before sealing to help prevent freezer burn

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Healthier Frozen Dessert Benefits

Compared to traditional ice cream, frozen yogurt made with Greek yogurt offers:

✅ More protein to keep you full longer
✅ Less sugar and fat (especially with natural sweeteners)
✅ Probiotics (if using yogurt with live cultures)
✅ Customizable ingredients — control your sweetener and add-ins
✅ A lighter alternative that still feels indulgent

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Nutrition Information (Per Serving – approx. ½ cup)

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 8g
• Carbs: 20g
• Sugar: 15g (natural from pumpkin and syrup)
• Fiber: 2g

Based on using whole milk Greek yogurt and maple syrup. Adjust according to ingredients used.

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FAQs About Pumpkin Pecan Frozen Yogurt

Can I use flavored yogurt?

You can, but it may increase sugar content. Stick with plain Greek yogurt for best results and full control over flavor.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free coconut yogurt or almond milk yogurt and substitute maple syrup or agave for sweetening. The texture may be slightly less creamy, but still delicious.

Do I need an ice cream maker?

Nope! It helps improve texture, but the no-churn method works well. Just stir once or twice during freezing to reduce ice crystals.

How long does it keep?

Frozen yogurt is best enjoyed within 1–2 weeks, but it can be stored up to a month. The longer it freezes, the firmer it becomes.

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Why This Recipe Works

✅ Combines fall flavors in a refreshing frozen treat
✅ Uses real, wholesome ingredients — no fillers or fake flavor
✅ Sweetened naturally with maple syrup or honey
✅ Packed with protein and flavor
✅ Easy to customize for different diets and preferences

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Final Thoughts: A Fresh Fall Favorite

If you thought frozen treats were only for summer, think again! Pumpkin Pecan Frozen Yogurt brings all the cozy, spicy goodness of fall into a bowl of creamy, satisfying deliciousness. Whether you serve it at a Halloween gathering, Thanksgiving dessert bar, or just as a personal treat, it’s a refreshing twist on traditional pumpkin desserts.

Healthy enough for everyday, festive enough for special occasions — this one belongs in your fall recipe rotation.

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