Pumpkin Butter
There’s something truly magical about making Pumpkin Butter in the fall. The air is crisp, the leaves are turning, and all I can think about is how to capture that seasonal warmth in a jar. My kitchen becomes a sanctuary filled with the comforting scent of spices and sweet pumpkin, reminding me of cozy evenings spent with friends and family. Growing up, my grandmother would whip up this delicious spread, and I remember how we would slather it on toast and pancakes, making every bite a celebration of autumn. Now, I’m excited to share this cherished recipe with you, perfect for enjoying on chilly mornings or as a thoughtful homemade gift.
Recipe Snapshot
40 mins
15 mins
25 mins
Easy
120 kcal
1 g
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP
0 g
Saucepan, Airtight Container or Jar
What’s Great About This Pumpkin Butter
It’s So Versatile!
One of the best things about Pumpkin Butter is its versatility. You can use it in a variety of dishes, whether you want to spread it on toast, mix it into yogurt, or incorporate it into sweet baked goods. Each option brings its own unique delight, allowing you to enjoy the flavors of fall in more ways than one!
Perfect for Fall Gatherings
This spread is ideal for autumn gatherings. Imagine serving it on a charcuterie board alongside cheeses and nuts. It creates a delightful balance of flavors and adds a festive touch to any occasion, be it Thanksgiving or a cozy family dinner.
Health Benefits
Did you know pumpkin is a nutritional powerhouse? Rich in vitamins A and C, it’s great for your skin and immune system. Plus, the spices we use not only enhance the flavor but also come with their own health benefits. Cinnamon, for example, can help regulate blood sugar levels!
Easy to Make
Making Pumpkin Butter is a breeze! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a deliciously rich spread without any fuss. It’s a great way to dive into cooking without feeling overwhelmed, making it a perfect beginner-friendly recipe.
Gift Worthy!
Who wouldn’t love receiving a jar of homemade Pumpkin Butter? It’s a thoughtful gift for friends and family during the holiday season. Just package it in a pretty jar with a ribbon, and you’ve got a personal gift that’s sure to impress!
Everything You Need for Pumpkin Butter

Creating the perfect Pumpkin Butter involves a few key ingredients that work harmoniously together. The star of the show is, of course, pumpkin puree, which provides a rich, creamy base. Combined with brown sugar for sweetness, honey for depth, and a medley of spices like cinnamon, allspice, and cloves, this recipe captures the essence of fall. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of flavors that make this dish special.
- 15-ounce can unsweetened pumpkin puree – This is the essential base of your Pumpkin Butter. It gives the spread its creamy texture and rich pumpkin flavor, perfect for fall.
- ½ cup packed brown sugar – Adds sweetness and a hint of molasses flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the spread.
- ¼ cup honey – For a touch of natural sweetness that balances the spices beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice – The acidity from the lemon juice brightens up the flavors, preventing the spread from becoming too sweet.
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon – One of the hallmark spices of fall, it adds warmth and depth to the Pumpkin Butter.
- ⅛ teaspoon ground allspice – This spice complements the pumpkin and cinnamon, adding complexity to the flavor profile.
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves – A little goes a long way, providing a warm, aromatic note that rounds out the flavor.
Directions for Pumpkin Butter

Making Pumpkin Butter is an enjoyable process that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas. Follow these steps to create your own delicious spread:
- In a medium saucepan, combine all of the ingredients. Make sure to mix them thoroughly, creating a uniform mixture that will heat evenly.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. As it heats, stir frequently to prevent any sticking at the bottom of the pan. You want to keep an eye on it, as it can bubble up quickly.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully while the mixture thickens. Stir occasionally, ensuring it doesn’t stick.
- Simmer for about 20 minutes or until the mixture has thickened to your desired consistency. You’re looking for a spreadable texture!
- When it’s ready, remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mixture cool slightly. This step is crucial as it prevents burns when transferring to containers.
- Pack the cooled Pumpkin Butter into small, airtight containers or jars. Make sure to leave a little space at the top to allow for expansion if freezing.
- Keep your Pumpkin Butter refrigerated. It should last for a few weeks, but trust me, it won’t last long once everyone gets a taste!
Things Worth Knowing
- Storage: Keep your Pumpkin Butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to two weeks, but it’s so delicious, it’ll likely be gone much sooner!
- Freezing: You can freeze your Pumpkin Butter in small portions using ice cube trays or containers. This way, you can thaw just what you need for a cozy breakfast any time.
- Consistency: If the Pumpkin Butter is too thick, you can add a bit of water or extra lemon juice to reach your desired consistency while stirring over low heat.
- Flavor Development: The flavors of the Pumpkin Butter may deepen over time, so if you can wait a day or two before digging in, you’ll be rewarded with even more depth.
- Ingredient Quality: Using high-quality spices and pure pumpkin puree makes a significant difference in flavor. Look for organic or freshly ground spices when possible.
Expert Tips about Pumpkin Butter

Creating the perfect Pumpkin Butter is all about attention to detail. Here are some expert tips to help you achieve the best results:
- Storage: Keep your Pumpkin Butter in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays fresh for up to two weeks, but trust me, it won’t last that long!
- Freezing: You can also freeze Pumpkin Butter in small portions. Use ice cube trays or small jars, and it will last for up to three months.
- Pairing: This spread is fantastic on toast, biscuits, or as a topping for pancakes and waffles. It also pairs well with cheese for a charcuterie board.
- Flavor Boost: If you want to enhance the flavors, consider adding a splash of maple syrup or a pinch of nutmeg to the mixture.
- Presentation: For gifting, place your Pumpkin Butter in a decorative jar, and add a label with usage suggestions for a thoughtful touch.
What to Serve With Pumpkin Butter
When it comes to serving Pumpkin Butter, there are endless delicious options:
- Breakfast Spread: Spread it generously on toast or bagels for a delightful breakfast treat. It pairs beautifully with cream cheese.
- Bakery Favorites: Try it on warm biscuits, muffins, or pancakes to elevate your morning routine.
- Charcuterie Boards: Add a jar of Pumpkin Butter to your charcuterie board, alongside cheeses and nuts, for a beautiful presentation that will impress your guests.
- Fall Desserts: Use it as a filling for thumbprint cookies or swirl it into brownies for a seasonal twist.
- Seasonal Gatherings: Serve it during Thanksgiving dinner as a unique alternative to cranberry sauce. It’s perfect for complementing roasted meats.
- Storage Tips: Store leftover Pumpkin Butter in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two weeks, or freeze for later enjoyment.
FAQ
Conclusion
Making Pumpkin Butter is a wonderful way to capture the essence of fall in a jar. With its rich flavors and versatility, this recipe is sure to become a cherished part of your autumn traditions. I encourage you to try making it yourself and share it with friends and family. It’s the perfect spread for cozy breakfasts and delightful gatherings.

Pumpkin Butter
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan, combine all of the ingredients. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. Reduce heat; simmer for 20 minutes or until thick, stirring occasionally. Cool slightly and pack into small, airtight containers. Keep refrigerated. Use within a few weeks.
Notes
- Tip 1: Spread it on toast, biscuits or muffins.
- Tip 2: Spread it on French toast, pancakes or waffles.
- Tip 3: Add it to a baked sweet potato.
- Tip 4: Use as a filling for hand pies or thumbprint cookies.
- Tip 5: Swirl it into yogurt, oatmeal or overnight oats.
- Tip 6: Spread it on cinnamon rolls to make pumpkin cinnamon rolls.
- Tip 7: Refrigerate: Keep in an airtight jar for up to 2 weeks.
- Tip 8: Freeze: Spoon into small containers or ice cube trays and freeze for up to 3 months.


