5 5 Published Sep 24, 2024 I know roasting and pureeing a whole pumpkin might seem daunting, but it’s actually so easy. It’s honestly just like roasting up a winter squash. Plus, homemade pumpkin puree does taste waaay better than store-bought canned pumpkin! It may not be super apparent in recipes that use a small amount of pumpkin or have a ton of extra flavor (like these healthy apple muffins), but I think you can certainly taste the difference in recipes where pumpkin is the star… like my healthy pumpkin pie.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Fresh & flavorful – Making your own pumpkin puree means you get the freshest, most flavorful pumpkin possible. It’s a game changer compared to canned! Easy to make – With just one ingredient and minimal steps, this recipe couldn’t be easier. Just scoop the seeds (and save to make roasted pumpkin seeds), roast, blend and you’re done! Plus, it’s a great way to make the most of pumpkin season. Versatile – Pumpkin puree is the base for so many delicious recipes! You can use it for pies, muffins, soups, smoothies and so much more! Some of my favorite pumpkin recipes are this healthy pumpkin bread, pumpkin oatmeal and pumpkin protein bars.
Here’s the best part… you only need one ingredient to make pumpkin puree… a pumpkin! Look for a “sugar” or “pie” pumpkin that is about 2 pounds in weight. Regular, jack-o-lantern pumpkins used for carving aren’t great options for making pumpkin puree. The flesh is a bit too stringy and watery. But you can certainly still roast the seeds of a jack-o-lantern pumpkin.
How to Use Pumpkin Puree
There are so many ways to use pumpkin puree! I honestly love using pumpkin all year round, but especially during the fall season. I’ve got breakfast recipes, main dishes and desserts that use pumpkin. Here are some ideas to try:
In baked goods – I love baking with pumpkin in the fall! Try using it in recipes like this pumpkin cake, pumpkin cinnamon rolls or flourless pumpkin muffins. In soup – Make this curried pumpkin soup or autumn squash soup with this pumpkin puree. In a savory dish – For a savory pumpkin dish try my creamy pumpkin pasta or maple balsamic tempeh bowls with pumpkin rice. In a drink – I love adding pumpkin puree to my beverages like this pumpkin pie smoothie, pumpkin spice latte or my new obsession, pumpkin cream cold brew. As a snack – Make this pumpkin pie yogurt bowl or pumpkin chia pudding for a tasty fall snack! Top them with this pumpkin granola for some added crunch! As baby food – Pumpkin puree also makes for a great baby food. You can combine it with other foods (like carrot puree, sweet potato puree, mango, apple or yogurt) or serve it straight up. Make dog treats – For all my pet parents out there you can use your leftover pumpkin puree to make these peanut butter and pumpkin dog treats. Trust me, your dogs will love them!
How to Store
After your pumpkin puree is cooled completely, place it in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to one week or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
More Pumpkin Recipes
Healthy Pumpkin Pancakes Quick and Easy Pumpkin Butter Pumpkin Brownies Pumpkin Oatmeal Bars Oatmeal Pumpkin Cookies
