Pumpkin Butter is a rich, smooth, and flavorful spread made from pureed pumpkin, spices, and a touch of sweetness. It’s the perfect fall treat that you can slather on toast, stir into yogurt, spread over pancakes, or use as a filling for desserts. This simple recipe combines pumpkin puree with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a delicious, homemade spread that captures the essence of autumn. The best part? It’s easy to make and can be stored for weeks, allowing you to enjoy the taste of fall whenever you like. Let’s dive into this flavorful Pumpkin Butter recipe!
Ingredients
To create the perfect batch of Pumpkin Butter, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Pumpkin Puree (1 can, 15 oz or 2 cups homemade): Be sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugar and spices. You can also make your own by roasting and pureeing fresh pumpkin.
- Apple Juice or Apple Cider (1/2 cup): Apple juice or cider adds a subtle sweetness and a touch of tartness, which pairs perfectly with the pumpkin.
- Brown Sugar (1/2 cup): Brown sugar adds sweetness and depth of flavor, giving the Pumpkin Butter its caramel-like richness.
- Maple Syrup (2 tablespoons): Maple syrup adds a natural sweetness and enhances the warm, cozy flavor of the Pumpkin Butter. You can adjust the amount depending on your sweetness preference.
- Ground Cinnamon (1 1/2 teaspoons): Cinnamon is a key spice that brings warmth and depth to the spread.
- Ground Ginger (1/2 teaspoon): Ginger adds a subtle spicy kick that balances the sweetness of the pumpkin and sugar.
- Ground Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Nutmeg adds a hint of earthy spice, enhancing the overall flavor.
- Ground Cloves (1/4 teaspoon): Cloves provide a bold, aromatic note, making the Pumpkin Butter even more flavorful.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Vanilla rounds out the flavors and adds a warm, sweet undertone.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): A small amount of salt balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors of the spices.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make smooth, flavorful Pumpkin Butter that you can enjoy all season long.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the pumpkin puree, apple juice (or cider), brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. Stir until everything is well mixed and smooth.
- Cook the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Once it begins to simmer, reduce the heat to low. Allow the mixture to cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to help the Pumpkin Butter thicken. The mixture will darken slightly and become smooth and spreadable.
- Add the Vanilla: After the Pumpkin Butter has thickened to your desired consistency, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This adds a sweet, fragrant note to the finished spread.
- Cool and Store: Allow the Pumpkin Butter to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer it to an airtight container or glass jar. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to 2 weeks.
Duration Time
- Preparation Time: 5 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information (per tablespoon, based on 24 servings)
- Calories: 25
- Total Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 20mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 6g
- Sugars: 5g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin. Roast the pumpkin, then scoop out the flesh and puree it in a blender or food processor until smooth. Measure 2 cups of fresh pumpkin puree to replace the canned version.
2. How long does Pumpkin Butter last?
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, Pumpkin Butter will last for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
3. Can I make Pumpkin Butter without sugar?
Yes, you can reduce or omit the brown sugar and maple syrup for a less sweet version. You can also use natural sweeteners like honey, agave syrup, or stevia.
4. What can I use Pumpkin Butter for?
Pumpkin Butter is versatile! Spread it on toast, bagels, or muffins, stir it into oatmeal or yogurt, serve it with pancakes or waffles, or use it as a filling for pastries and desserts.
5. Can I can Pumpkin Butter for long-term storage?
It is not recommended to can Pumpkin Butter due to its low acidity, which can make it unsafe for canning without proper acidification. It’s best to refrigerate or freeze it for storage.
6. How can I make Pumpkin Butter thicker?
To thicken Pumpkin Butter, cook it for a little longer, stirring frequently to avoid burning. You can also add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water if you want a faster thickening option.
7. Can I use pumpkin pie spice instead of individual spices?
Yes, you can substitute the spices with 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice if you prefer. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.
8. Is Pumpkin Butter vegan?
Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan, as it contains no animal products. Just be sure to use a plant-based maple syrup and brown sugar to ensure it’s completely vegan-friendly.
9. How can I make Pumpkin Butter sugar-free?
For a sugar-free version, you can use a sugar substitute like monk fruit sweetener, erythritol, or stevia, adjusting to taste. Keep in mind that these substitutes may affect the texture slightly.
10. Can I add other flavors to the Pumpkin Butter?
Yes! You can experiment by adding a splash of orange juice, a pinch of cardamom, or even a tablespoon of bourbon for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Pumpkin Butter is a delicious, versatile spread that’s perfect for fall and beyond. Whether you spread it on toast, stir it into yogurt, or use it in your favorite desserts, this Pumpkin Butter recipe is a must-try for any pumpkin lover. Enjoy the warm, spiced flavors of autumn with every spoonful!