If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate cozy fall treat, this Pumpkin Butter is going to become your new kitchen staple. Luxuriously smooth, fragrant with warm spices, and just the right amount of sweetness, it transforms simple toast into a celebration—or makes an irresistible swirl in yogurt or oatmeal. There’s something magical about homemade Pumpkin Butter, and once you make a batch, you’ll wonder how your autumn ever survived without it.
Why You Should Make This Recipe
- Big Fall Flavor: Each spoonful is packed with pumpkin, maple syrup, and pumpkin pie spice for that quintessential autumn warmth.
- Quick & Easy: The entire recipe takes just half an hour from start to finish—no tricky steps or special gadgets needed!
- Versatile: Pumpkin Butter complements everything from breakfast classics to dessert boards, or even as a DIY gift.
- All-Natural Ingredients: Unlike many store-bought spreads, this recipe is made with real, wholesome ingredients you likely have on hand.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Every ingredient in this Pumpkin Butter is chosen for peak flavor and texture, and they all blend together to create that thick, creamy spread you’ll want to eat by the spoonful. Here’s what makes each component special, plus a few options for swapping if you need to adapt.
- Pumpkin Purée: The heart of our recipe—use pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling, for the smoothest, richest flavor and texture.
- Brown Sugar: Adds caramel notes and deep sweetness, perfectly complementing the pumpkin and spice.
- Maple Syrup: A touch of maple brings earthy sweetness and that irresistible autumn aroma. Honey can work in a pinch, but maple is truly special here.
- Apple Juice: Adds brightness and a subtle apple note that enhances the overall flavor profile; apple cider is a fantastic substitute.
- Lemon Juice: A small but mighty splash—the little tang lifts all the warm flavors and keeps the spread vibrant, not flat.
- Pumpkin Pie Spice: The classic blend that makes this taste like fall in a jar. Use a homemade mix if you want to control the spice ratios.
- Cinnamon: For a little extra warmth and layering of flavor.
- Sea Salt: Just a pinch intensifies all the sweet notes and balances the overall taste.
- Vanilla Extract: Rounds out the flavors and ties the whole recipe together with a comforting aroma.
How to Make Pumpkin Butter
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a small saucepan, add your pumpkin purée, brown sugar, maple syrup, apple juice, lemon juice, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, sea salt, and vanilla extract. There’s no need to prep things in any particular order—just pile it all in, and let the flavors mingle right from the start!
Step 2: Simmer and Whisk
Turn the heat to low and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Whisk your Pumpkin Butter often, making sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the pot so nothing sticks or burns. Over about 25 minutes, your mixture will thicken and darken to a deep, lush orange-brown—the texture should be creamy and spreadable by the time you’re done.
Step 3: Cool and Store
Take the pan off the heat once your Pumpkin Butter reaches the perfect silky consistency. Let it cool for at least 15–20 minutes before transferring it to a jar or container. It will continue to thicken as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a touch runny at first—it will set up beautifully in the fridge!
How to Serve Pumpkin Butter
Garnishes
Elevate your Pumpkin Butter with a sprinkle of roasted pepitas, a dash of cinnamon, or even a dollop of whipped cream for that dessert-like finish. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add an extra-special, café-style flourish—impress your brunch crew or simply treat yourself!
Side Dishes
This sweet, spiced spread is dreamy on warm toast, pancakes, waffles, and scones. It’s also delicious paired with Greek yogurt and a crunchy granola, or layered into parfaits and oatmeal bowls for a cozy breakfast or snack.
Creative Ways to Present
Pumpkin Butter isn’t just for breakfast—try swirling it into vanilla ice cream, using it as a filling for thumbprint cookies, or gifting in cute jars tied with a cinnamon stick and ribbon. For parties, a Pumpkin Butter cheeseboard with apples, crackers, and sharp cheeses will absolutely wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your Pumpkin Butter cool completely before sealing it in a clean jar or airtight container—this helps it last up to two weeks in the refrigerator. The texture holds up beautifully, and the flavors deepen even more after a day or two of chilling.
Freezing
If you want to keep Pumpkin Butter on hand all season, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers or silicone molds for up to six months. Allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge, and it’ll be just as smooth and flavorful as the day you made it.
Reheating
Pumpkin Butter is delicious cold, but if you prefer it warm, gently reheat in a small saucepan over low heat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave a spoonful or two; just take care to use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short bursts to avoid scorching.
FAQs
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Can I use pumpkin pie filling instead of pumpkin purée?
It’s best to stick with plain pumpkin purée for the smoothest, thickest Pumpkin Butter. Pumpkin pie filling has extra water and sweeteners that can make the final consistency runny and the flavor less vibrant.
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Is this Pumpkin Butter safe for canning?
No, this recipe is not considered safe for water bath or pressure canning due to its low acidity. For best (and safest) results, store your Pumpkin Butter in the fridge or freezer.
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Can I adjust the spices in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to increase or decrease the pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon, or add a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger to tailor your Pumpkin Butter to your personal taste.
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Is it possible to make this recipe with fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can roast, mash, and strain fresh pumpkin to use in this recipe. Just make sure it’s very smooth and not watery—otherwise, your Pumpkin Butter won’t thicken up as nicely.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to experience how homemade Pumpkin Butter brings a little bit of autumn magic to anything you spread it on. Whip up a batch soon, share it with loved ones (if you can bear to part with any!), and savor the cozy, spiced sweetness all season long—you’ll be hooked after one bite!
Print
Pumpkin Butter Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Stovetop
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This homemade Pumpkin Butter recipe is a delicious spread with warm flavors of fall. Perfect for spreading on toast, muffins, or using in various recipes.
Ingredients
Brown Sugar:
6 Tbsp
Pumpkin Purée:
1 29 oz can
Maple Syrup:
2 Tbsp
Apple Juice:
1/4 cup
Lemon Juice:
1 tsp
Pumpkin Pie Spice:
2 tsp
Cinnamon:
1/4 tsp
Sea Salt:
1/8 tsp
Vanilla Extract:
1/2 tsp
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients: In a small saucepan.
- The color will darken: Slightly as it simmers. Keep whisking to prevent burning.
- Once a smooth, thick texture is achieved: with a deeper color, you’re done!
Simmer on low heat for 25 min, whisking often.
Notes
- It may seem like using pumpkin pie filling in a can is an easy substitute, but they add water and additional ingredients that don’t yield the same texture.
- Apple cider is a delicious substitute!
