Homemade Pumpkin Puree Recipe
Introduction
Making your own pumpkin puree at home is simple and rewarding. Freshly pureed pumpkin adds a vibrant flavor and natural sweetness to your dishes, perfect for pies, soups, and baked goods.
Ingredients
- 1 Pumpkin
Instructions
- Step 1: For small pumpkins, chop off the top, cut in half, and remove the seeds. For larger pumpkins, cut around the stem, remove seeds, then cut 4-inch wide pieces along the natural grooves. Gently scrape the inside with a spoon to remove the stringy fibers.
- Step 2: Place the pumpkin pieces face down on a baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees F (180 degrees C) for 1 to 2 hours, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Step 3: Allow the pumpkin to cool until it can be handled comfortably. Peel off or cut away the skin, then chop the pumpkin flesh into chunks.
- Step 4: Puree the pumpkin chunks using a food processor, blender, or mash by hand. Add water, one tablespoon at a time, if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Step 5: Store the pumpkin puree in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days or freeze in 1-cup portions until ready to use.
Tips & Variations
- Choose sugar pumpkins or pie pumpkins for a sweeter, more flavorful puree compared to large carving pumpkins.
- For a deeper flavor, roast the pumpkin pieces with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt before pureeing.
- If you want a smoother puree, press it through a fine mesh sieve after blending.
Storage
Keep pumpkin puree in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in 1-cup portions using freezer-safe containers or bags; it will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and stir before using. Reheat gently if desired.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use canned pumpkin instead of fresh puree?
Yes, canned pumpkin is a convenient substitute and works well in most recipes. Fresh pumpkin puree will have a brighter flavor but canned is a great time-saver.
How do I know when the pumpkin is cooked enough?
The pumpkin is done when a fork easily pierces the flesh and it feels soft inside. Baking times can vary depending on the pumpkin size.
Print
Homemade Pumpkin Puree Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 3 to 4 cups of pumpkin puree from 1 medium pumpkin 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This recipe shows how to make homemade pumpkin puree from fresh pumpkin. It guides you through preparing and roasting the pumpkin, then pureeing it to smooth perfection. Fresh pumpkin puree is a versatile ingredient perfect for baking, cooking, and adding natural autumn flavor to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 Pumpkin (any variety suitable for cooking)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pumpkin: For small pumpkins, chop off the top, cut in half, and remove the seeds. For larger pumpkins, cut around the stem, remove the seeds, and slice into 4-inch-wide pieces along the natural grooves. Use a spoon to gently scrape out the stringy pulp and fibers from the inside.
- Bake the Pumpkin: Arrange the pumpkin pieces face down on a baking sheet. Roast in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 1 to 2 hours until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Cool and Remove Skin: Let the roasted pumpkin cool enough to handle safely. Peel off the skin or cut it away, then chop the flesh into manageable chunks.
- Puree the Pumpkin: Transfer pumpkin chunks to a food processor or blender and puree until smooth. Add water one tablespoon at a time, if needed, to achieve the desired consistency. Alternatively, mash the pumpkin by hand for a chunkier texture.
- Store the Puree: Place the puree in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to a few days or freeze in 1-cup portions for longer storage, ready to be used in your recipes.
Notes
- Use pie pumpkins or sugar pumpkins for the best flavor and texture.
- Ensure pumpkin pieces are roasted flesh-side down to retain moisture.
- Adjust water amount carefully to avoid overly watery puree.
- Homemade puree is fresher and more flavorful than canned alternatives.
- Freeze leftovers in portion sizes suitable for recipes to avoid waste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 to 2 hours
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: pumpkin puree, homemade pumpkin, roasted pumpkin puree, fresh pumpkin puree, fall recipes
