Pumpkin Butter is a deliciously rich and smooth spread that’s perfect for fall. Made with pumpkin puree and warm spices, this homemade treat is a versatile and flavorful addition to your pantry. It can be spread on toast, swirled into oatmeal or yogurt, used as a filling for desserts, or even enjoyed straight from the jar! This easy-to-make recipe brings out the best of pumpkin’s natural sweetness and is perfect for anyone who loves the flavors of autumn. Let’s get started on this easy Pumpkin Butter recipe!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make a flavorful batch of Pumpkin Butter:
- Pumpkin Puree (1 can, 15 oz or 2 cups homemade): Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling. You can also make your own by roasting and pureeing fresh pumpkin.
- Apple Juice or Apple Cider (1/2 cup): This adds a hint of fruity sweetness and helps thin the pumpkin for a smoother consistency.
- Brown Sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Brown sugar provides sweetness and depth of flavor, balancing the spices with a caramel-like richness.
- Maple Syrup (2 tablespoons): Maple syrup adds natural sweetness and enhances the cozy, warm flavors of the pumpkin and spices.
- Ground Cinnamon (1 1/2 teaspoons): Cinnamon brings warmth and is essential to the overall flavor of Pumpkin Butter.
- Ground Ginger (1/2 teaspoon): Ginger adds a bit of spice and complexity.
- Ground Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): Nutmeg offers a subtle, nutty sweetness that pairs perfectly with pumpkin.
- Ground Cloves (1/4 teaspoon): Cloves provide a deep, earthy spice, adding depth to the spread.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon): A small pinch of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor of the spices.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon): Vanilla adds a sweet, fragrant finish to the Pumpkin Butter.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make rich, flavorful Pumpkin Butter at home:
- Combine 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 all ingredients are well combined and smooth.
- Cook the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently. Once it starts to bubble, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. The mixture will thicken and darken as it cooks.
- Add Vanilla: After the Pumpkin Butter has thickened to your desired consistency, remove it from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Cool and Store: Allow the Pumpkin Butter to cool to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container or glass jar and store it in the refrigerator. 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: 15mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 6g
- Sugars: 5g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes! You can make your own pumpkin puree by roasting a small sugar pumpkin and blending the flesh until smooth. Use 2 cups of homemade puree in place of the canned pumpkin.
2. How long does Pumpkin Butter last?
Pumpkin Butter will last up to 2 weeks when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
3. Can I make this without sugar?
Yes, you can reduce or omit the sugar for a less sweet version. You can also use natural sweeteners like honey, agave syrup, or stevia.
4. Can I use Pumpkin Pie Spice instead of individual spices?
Yes, you can substitute the cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves with 1 1/2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice.
5. How do I serve Pumpkin Butter?
Pumpkin Butter is versatile! Spread it on toast, pancakes, waffles, or muffins. Stir it into oatmeal, yogurt, or smoothies. You can also use it as a filling for cakes or cookies, or swirl it into ice cream for a fall-inspired treat.
6. Can I can Pumpkin Butter?
Due to its low acidity, Pumpkin Butter is not safe for traditional canning methods. It’s best to store it in the refrigerator or freezer.
7. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! This recipe is naturally vegan since it contains no animal products. Just be sure to use a plant-based sweetener if needed.
8. How can I make Pumpkin Butter thicker?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can cook the Pumpkin Butter for a few extra minutes, stirring frequently. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
9. What other flavors can I add?
Feel free to experiment with flavors! Add a splash of orange juice for brightness, a dash of bourbon for richness, or even a pinch of cardamom for extra spice.
10. How do I prevent Pumpkin Butter from burning?
To prevent burning, cook the Pumpkin Butter over low heat and stir frequently, especially toward the end of the cooking time when the mixture thickens.
Pumpkin Butter is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of fall all season long. Whether spread on toast or used in your favorite desserts, this sweet, spiced pumpkin spread is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy!