What can you use instead of canned pumpkin to make cookies?

1. Fresh Pumpkin: If you have access to fresh pumpkin, you can steam, roast, or boil the pumpkin until soft. Once cooked, puree the pumpkin in a food processor or blender until smooth. Then use this fresh pumpkin puree in your cookies.

2. Sweet Potato Puree: Sweet potato puree is a great alternative to pumpkin puree. It's packed with nutrients, has a similar consistency, and adds a slightly sweet flavor to your cookies. Cook the sweet potatoes, mash them, and use them in the same quantity as required for canned pumpkin.

3. Butternut Squash Puree: Butternut squash puree is another excellent substitute for canned pumpkin. It has a naturally sweet and nutty flavor that complements many cookie recipes. Roast or steam the butternut squash until tender, puree it, and then use it in place of pumpkin puree.

4. Pumpkin Spice Latte Mix: If you're short on time or don't have access to fresh pumpkin, pumpkin spice latte mix can provide a great alternative. It adds the classic pumpkin spice flavor without the need for actual pumpkin puree. Use the latte mix according to the package instructions or adjust it to your preference.

5. Pumpkin Butter: Pumpkin butter has a concentrated pumpkin flavor and a thick consistency. It can be used as a direct replacement for canned pumpkin puree in cookie recipes. Adjust the amount of pumpkin butter based on your desired pumpkin flavor intensity.

6. Pumpkin Pie Filling: If you have leftover pumpkin pie filling or canned pumpkin pie filling, you can use it in place of canned pumpkin in your cookies. It will add both pumpkin flavor and a hint of sweetness. Adjust the amount based on your recipe.

7. Carrot Puree: Carrot puree can provide a similar color and texture to pumpkin puree. Steam, roast, or boil carrots until tender, puree them, and then use them in your cookies. Carrot puree has a slightly sweet and earthy taste that pairs well with various spices.

8. Kabocha Squash Puree: Kabocha squash has a sweet, nutty flavor and is a good source of vitamins and minerals. It can be roasted, steamed, or boiled until soft and then pureed. Use it as a substitute for canned pumpkin in cookie recipes.

9. Applesauce: Applesauce can add moisture and sweetness to your cookies. Additionally, it can help to bind the ingredients together and provide a texture similar to canned pumpkin. Adjust the spices in the cookie recipe to complement the apple flavor.

10. Yogurt: Plain, unsweetened yogurt can be a healthy alternative to canned pumpkin. It adds moisture and protein, and its slightly tangy flavor can create unique and interesting cookie recipes. Adjust the amount of sugar in the cookie recipe to balance the tartness of the yogurt.