Pumpkin butter is one of those cozy fall staples that instantly brings warmth to your kitchen. Unlike pumpkin pie filling, this silky spread is versatile, naturally sweet, and infused with aromatic spices. Use it on toast, swirl it into oatmeal, or even as a filling for muffins and cakes. Here’s a foolproof recipe for creamy, spiced pumpkin butter.
Ingredients:
- 29 oz (about 3½ cups) pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar (adds deep molasses notes)
- ¾ cup fresh apple cider or unsweetened apple juice
- 2 whole cinnamon sticks
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1½ teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (adjust to taste after cooking)
Instructions:
1. Combine & Bloom:
In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, whisk together pumpkin puree, brown sugar, apple cider, vanilla, cinnamon sticks, and pumpkin pie spice until smooth. This step ensures the sugar dissolves completely and spices are evenly distributed.
2. Simmer to Perfection:
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat. Stir constantly until the mixture reaches a gentle boil. Constant stirring prevents scorching and keeps the texture silky.
3. Reduce & Thicken:
Lower the heat immediately to a gentle simmer. Partially cover to let steam escape while preventing splatters. Cook for 45-60 minutes, stirring every 5-7 minutes and scraping the sides and bottom. The pumpkin butter is ready when it thickens, pulls away from the sides of the pan, and mounds slightly on a spoon.
4. Taste & Tailor:
Remove from heat. Discard the cinnamon sticks. Taste and adjust spices if desired—add a pinch more pumpkin pie spice for extra warmth or a tiny bit of salt to balance sweetness.
5. Cool & Store:
Allow the butter to cool completely. Transfer to clean, airtight glass jars. Refrigerate for up to two weeks. It also freezes beautifully for months, making it a perfect make-ahead gift.
Tips for the Perfect Pumpkin Butter:
- Sweetness Level: If you prefer less sweet, reduce brown sugar to ¾ cup and taste as you cook.
- Extra Depth: Add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg for a more robust spice profile.
- Serving Ideas: Spread on toast, swirl into yogurt or oatmeal, use as a cake filling, or serve with roasted squash.
- Consistency: For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender after cooking.
Why You’ll Love It:
This pumpkin butter is naturally dairy-free, versatile, and keeps your kitchen smelling like fall. It’s richer than a jam but not as heavy as a buttercream, making it a year-round favorite.