Why You’ll Love this Pumpkin Butter Recipe
Whether you’re a pumpkin enthusiast or just looking for a delicious fall treat, you’ll love this pumpkin butter recipe. It’s not just about the taste; it fills your kitchen with that warm, cozy scent of spices and sweet pumpkin.
I’ve found that it’s perfect on toast, in oatmeal, or even as a surprise ingredient in baked goods. Plus, it’s super easy to make! The rich, smooth texture and the balance of sweet and spiced flavors make it irresistible.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll keep coming back for more, sharing it with friends and family throughout the season.
Ingredients of Pumpkin Butter
When it comes to making pumpkin butter, the ingredients are key to achieving that luscious, sweet-spicy flavor that just screams fall. You’ll be amazed at how simple it’s to gather everything you need.
And trust me, the combination of spices, sweetness, and fresh pumpkin puree creates a spread that’s nothing short of magical. So, let’s get to it and check out what you’ll need to whip up your own batch of pumpkin butter.
Ingredients for Pumpkin Butter:
- 10 cups fresh pumpkin puree
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon allspice
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 cup Splenda Sugar Blend for Baking (or 2 cups sugar)
- 1 cup Splenda brown sugar blend (or 2 cups light brown sugar)
- 2/3 cup lemon juice
Now, here’s a little tip: when picking out your pumpkins, go for the smaller ones, like sugar pumpkins or pie pumpkins. They’re sweeter and have a smoother texture than the big jack-o-lantern types.
And if you find yourself with some extra pumpkin puree, don’t fret; it freezes beautifully! Just make sure to store it in airtight containers.
Believe me, you’ll want to have some on hand for when that pumpkin butter craving hits again. So, get your ingredients ready, and let’s get this pumpkin party started.
How to Make Pumpkin Butter
Making pumpkin butter is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with the warm, spicy aromas of fall. To start, you’ll need 10 cups of fresh pumpkin puree. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can make your own by roasting pumpkins. Just halve them, place them cut-side down in a Pyrex cooking pan with 1 cup of water, and bake them at 450°F for about 1 to 1 ½ hours until they’re soft.
Once they cool a bit, scoop out the flesh and toss it into a food processor to puree. Don’t forget to strain it overnight using cheesecloth for that perfect smooth texture. This step might seem tedious, but trust me, it’s worth it.
Now that you have your pumpkin puree ready, it’s time to whip up the magic. In a large crock-pot or on the stovetop, combine your pumpkin puree with 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of allspice, and 1 teaspoon of ground ginger for that signature pumpkin spice flavor.
Add 1 cup of Splenda Sugar Blend (or 2 cups of regular sugar, if that’s your jam) along with 1 cup of Splenda brown sugar blend (or 2 cups of light brown sugar). The sweetness balance is key here, and you can adjust based on your taste. Finally, stir in 2/3 cup of lemon juice.
Once everything is mixed, set your crock-pot to high or your stovetop to low, and let it simmer away. You’ll want to stir occasionally for about 4 hours. This is the part where you can take a little break, maybe pour yourself a warm drink, and just enjoy that incredible scent wafting through your home.
After the cooking time, it’s time to jar up your pumpkin butter. Make sure your jars are sterile, fill them with your luscious creation, and seal them up tight. You’ll end up with approximately 5 ½ pints of pumpkin butter, and believe me, it’s going to be hard to resist dipping in with a spoon before you even get to the sealing part.
Pumpkin Butter Substitutions & Variations
After you’ve mastered the basic pumpkin butter recipe, you might want to experiment with some fun substitutions and variations to make it your own.
For a twist, try adding maple syrup instead of sugar for a richer flavor. If you love spices, toss in nutmeg or cardamom for a unique kick. You can also swap out lemon juice for orange juice to brighten the taste.
For a creamier texture, blend in a bit of coconut cream. Finally, consider adding chopped nuts or dried fruits for extra texture and sweetness.
These small changes can elevate your pumpkin butter to new heights!
What to Serve with Pumpkin Butter
There’s something special about enjoying pumpkin butter alongside your favorite foods.
I love spreading it on warm, toasted bagels or fresh scones for a cozy breakfast. It also pairs beautifully with cream cheese, creating a delightful sweet and savory combo.
For a delicious dessert, try it on top of pancakes or waffles, drizzled with maple syrup. I’ve even enjoyed pumpkin butter with cheese boards, especially sharp cheddar or brie. It adds a unique twist!
Don’t forget to serve it with graham crackers for a tasty snack. Trust me, once you try these pairings, you’ll be hooked!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing pumpkin butter, keep in mind a few handy tips that can enhance your experience.
First, make sure your pumpkin puree is well-strained; excess moisture can affect the consistency. For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cloves. If you prefer a sweeter finish, adjust the sugar to your taste—it’s all about balance!
Always stir occasionally to prevent sticking, especially if you’re using the stovetop method.
Finally, let the pumpkin butter cool completely before sealing it in jars to avoid condensation. Trust me, these little tweaks make all the difference in the end product!