How to Make Pumpkin Puree (Video)

If you're a fan of fall flavors, this pumpkin puree recipe will become your new favorite. Each spoonful of this velvety puree bursts with the earthy sweetness of fresh pumpkin, with a velvety texture that's nothing short of perfection. And the best part? It is all done in your home oven.

Pumpkin puree is essentially a pumpkin that's been cooked, softened, and blended into a smooth, creamy puree. It is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a lot of ways – from pies and soups to breads and sauces. Making it at home not only allows you to control the consistency and flavor but also guarantees the freshness of your puree.

What sets this recipe apart is the simplicity of the process. All it takes is one medium pumpkin, a trusty baking pan, and your oven. The result? A delicious homemade puree that's free from preservatives and packed with natural goodness. Give it a try and you'll be amazed at how easy it is to whip up your own batch!

Want to learn how to make this pumpkin puree recipe? Then keep on reading. 

Table of Contents

• What is Pumpkin Puree?
• What Makes This Pumpkin Puree Recipe Special?
• What You Need to Make Pumpkin Puree at Home
• How to Make Pumpkin Puree (Step-by-Step)
• Tips for Making the Best Pumpkin Puree Ever
• Serving Suggestions for  Pumpkin Puree
• Recipe Variation Ideas for Pumpkin Puree
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How to Store Leftover Pumpkin Puree
• Printable Card

What is Pumpkin Puree?

Pumpkin puree is a versatile ingredient that is often used in a variety of recipes, especially during the fall season. Essentially, it's a smooth blend of cooked pumpkin flesh that has been processed until it reaches a creamy, velvety consistency. 

This homemade recipe is incredibly straightforward, requiring nothing more than a fresh pumpkin and a bit of time in the oven.

Making it at home is not just satisfying, but it also yields a product that's far superior to the store-bought versions. The taste is simply incomparable - it is fresh, sweet, and full of depth, adding a wonderful dimension to whatever dish it's used in. 

Whether you're making pumpkin soup, pumpkin pie, or even a pumpkin spice latte, homemade pumpkin puree will undoubtedly elevate your cooking to the next level.

What Makes This Pumpkin Puree Recipe Special?

Easy to make: This pumpkin puree recipe is incredibly easy to follow. With just one medium-sized pumpkin and a few simple steps, you'll have a delicious homemade puree. No fancy kitchen gadgets or hard-to-find ingredients are required!

Family Favorite: This recipe has been a hit in many homes. It is a crowd pleaser, perfect for family gatherings or a quiet night in. Plus, it is a great way to get the kids involved in the kitchen!

Variety of uses: This homemade puree is versatile, making it a staple in any kitchen. Use it in pies, soups, sauces, or even in your morning smoothie for a touch of autumn flavor.

Delicious: The end result of this recipe is a delicious, smooth, and rich puree. It is a far cry from the canned stuff, with a depth of flavor that can only come from fresh, home-cooked produce.

What You Need to Make Pumpkin Puree at Home

All you need are some simple pantry staple ingredients to make this pumpkin puree recipe at home. Let's look at them in more detail:

• One medium pumpkin: The star of this recipe, a medium pumpkin will yield enough puree for several dishes. Choose a pumpkin that is firm, with no blemishes or soft spots. It’s the source of the rich, sweet flavor that it's known for.

How to Make Pumpkin Puree (Step-by-Step)

Making this incredible pumpkin puree is easier than you think. Here's how to make them at home step by step:

How to Prep the Pumpkin

Before you begin, preheat your oven to a moderate temperature of around 350 F (180 C). This will guarantee a steady, even heat for cooking your pumpkin. 

While the oven is heating up, rinse your pumpkin thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Pat it dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. 

Once clean, cut the pumpkin in half. This might require a bit of force, so be careful and take your time. After it is split, remove the pumpkin seeds. You can save these for roasting later if you like.

Next, you'll want to clean the pumpkin flesh from the fibers. This is easily done by scraping them off with a regular table spoon.

How to Cook the Pumpkin

After the pumpkin is cleaned and prepped, cut it into small, manageable pieces. Arrange these pieces onto a large baking pan, around the size of a standard cookie sheet (15 X 22 inches should do). 

Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake the pumpkin for about an hour. The pumpkin is done when a knife can be easily inserted into the flesh. 

After baking, remove the pumpkin from the oven and let it cool completely. This is an important step, as it makes the next step safer and easier. 

How to Puree the Pumpkin

Once the pumpkin is cool, use a spoon to separate the cooked pumpkin flesh from the skin. Place the flesh into a food processor. 

Blend the pumpkin for about three minutes, or until the mixture is smooth. You're aiming for a consistency similar to that of canned pumpkin.

Storing the Puree

Now that your puree is ready, it is time to store it. You can fill a small snack-sized Ziploc bag with a cup of puree and freeze it flat. This makes for easy storage and portion control. 

Alternatively, you can store the puree in jars with lids and keep it refrigerated for up to four weeks.

And there you have it! Homemade pumpkin puree is simple to make and adds a fresh, flavorful touch to your fall recipes. 

Tips for Making the Best Pumpkin Puree Ever

Choose the right pumpkin: One medium pumpkin is ideal for this recipe. The size of the pumpkin will determine the amount of puree you'll get, so choose wisely.

Proper preheating: Preheat your oven to exactly to the right temperature 350 F. This will guarantee that the pumpkin cooks evenly and becomes soft enough for pureeing.

Seed removal: When prepping your pumpkin, don't forget to remove all the seeds. This will make the puree smoother and more enjoyable to eat.

Chop the pumpkin evenly: Cut the pumpkin into small pieces before baking. This will allow the pumpkin to cook more evenly and faster, resulting in a smoother puree.

Let it cool: After baking, let the pumpkin cool completely before processing. This will prevent the puree from being too hot to handle and will guarantee a smoother consistency.

Serving Suggestions for  Pumpkin Puree

• Whip up a delightful breakfast by adding it to your pancake batter. The sweetness of the puree will give your pancakes a lovely fall twist!
• Looking for a warming dinner option? Stir some of it into your favorite soup or stew. It adds a rich, creamy texture and a subtle sweetness that's simply irresistible.
• It can also be a star ingredient in your homemade pumpkin bread or muffins. Just replace some of the liquid in your recipe with the puree for a moist, flavorful treat.
• For a quick and healthy snack, try mixing it with Greek yogurt, a dash of honey, and a sprinkle of cinnamon. It is a protein-packed, fiber-rich snack that's sure to satisfy your sweet tooth!
• If you're a fan of smoothies, add it to your blender with some banana, almond milk, and a touch of honey creates a creamy, autumn-inspired drink.

Recipe Variation Ideas for Pumpkin Puree

This delicious pumpkin puree recipe is absolutely perfect as is, but if you're looking to change things up, here are a few variation ideas you can try:

Pumpkin Spice it up: If you're a fan of fall flavors, this variation is for you. Simply add a teaspoon of pumpkin spice to the puree. It will give your pumpkin puree a delightful warm and cozy taste that is perfect for the autumn season.

Sweeten It: For those with a sweet tooth, this variation is a must-try. Stir in two tablespoons of maple syrup into the puree. This adds a hint of sweetness and a depth of flavor that pairs perfectly with desserts or breakfast dishes.

Make it Zesty: If you enjoy a tangy twist, try adding the zest and juice of one medium orange to your puree. This will give your pumpkin puree a refreshing citrus flavor that is a great addition to a morning smoothie or a unique twist in a pumpkin soup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Watch the Youtube video below on How to Make Pumpkin Puree

How to Store Leftover Pumpkin Puree

Storing your leftover pumpkin puree in the fridge is a breeze! Simply transfer the puree into an airtight container or sealable plastic bag. Make sure to squeeze out any excess air before sealing. This will keep your puree fresh and ready to use for up to a week.

And yes, you can absolutely freeze pumpkin puree! Divide the puree into portion-sized amounts in freezer-safe bags or containers. This way, you only have to defrost what you need, reducing waste. Pumpkin puree can last up to three months in the freezer, maintaining its taste and nutritional value. 

If you've stored your pumpkin puree in the freezer, you'll need to thaw it before use. The best way to do this is by leaving it in the fridge overnight. If you're in a hurry, you can also defrost it in the microwave, following your microwave's defrost setting instructions.

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