Pumpkin Butter Recipe
The Pumpkin Butter Recipe you are about to discover is not only easy to make but also packed with warm flavors that embody the essence of fall. This delightful spread transforms canned pumpkin into a velvety concoction perfect for spreading on toast, dolloping over ice cream, or even using in your favorite desserts. With its rich spices and natural sweetness, this pumpkin butter will elevate any dish while being suitable for various occasions, from breakfast to holiday gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to prepare: With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe makes it simple to whip up a batch of delicious pumpkin butter.
- Rich flavor: The blend of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg creates a warm, comforting taste that pairs perfectly with fall favorites.
- Versatile uses: Enjoy it on toast, pancakes, or as a topping for ice cream. The possibilities are endless!
- Great for gifting: Put your homemade pumpkin butter in pretty jars and share it with friends and family as a thoughtful gift.
- Healthy option: Made with natural ingredients and lower in fat, this pumpkin butter makes a guilt-free treat.
Tools and Preparation
To create the best pumpkin butter, you’ll need a few essential tools in your kitchen. These items will help streamline the process so you can focus on enjoying your delicious creation.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Jars for storage
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This tool allows you to cook the pumpkin butter low and slow, ensuring deep flavor development without constant monitoring.
- Mixing spoon: A sturdy mixing spoon is essential for thoroughly combining all ingredients for an even texture.
- Jars for storage: Using jars helps preserve your pumpkin butter while making it easy to serve or gift.
Ingredients
The best pumpkin butter you will ever taste! Transform canned pumpkin into decadent pumpkin butter. Great on ice cream or toast.
For the Pumpkin Butter
- 45 oz. canned 100% pumpkin puree (three 15-oz. cans OR a 29-oz. can and a 15 oz. can)
- 2 ½ cups light brown sugar (packed)
- 2 cups apple juice (cider works well too)
- 1 ½ tsp. ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp. ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp. ground cloves
- ⅛ tsp. ground ginger
- 1 dash salt
How to Make Pumpkin Butter Recipe
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
- Add the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, apple juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and salt into your slow cooker.
- Stir until all ingredients are combined evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Mixture
- Cover your slow cooker.
- Set it to cook on LOW for 4 hours or HIGH for 2 hours until the mixture is thickened and aromatic.
Step 3: Cool and Store
- Once cooking is complete, stir the pumpkin butter again.
- Allow it to cool on the counter for an hour before transferring it into jars for storage.
This simple yet flavorful Pumpkin Butter Recipe will quickly become a staple in your home kitchen! Enjoy every bite as you savor the taste of fall year-round!
How to Serve Pumpkin Butter Recipe
Pumpkin butter is a versatile treat that can enhance many dishes. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy your homemade pumpkin butter.
On Toast
- Whole Wheat Bread: Spread pumpkin butter on warm whole wheat toast for a wholesome breakfast.
- Sourdough: The tangy flavor of sourdough pairs perfectly with the sweetness of pumpkin butter.
With Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Drizzle pumpkin butter over a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a seasonal twist.
- Pumpkin Spice Ice Cream: Amplify the fall flavors by combining it with pumpkin spice ice cream.
In Breakfast Dishes
- Oatmeal: Stir pumpkin butter into your morning oatmeal for added flavor and creaminess.
- Pancakes: Use it as a topping for pancakes or waffles, adding warmth and sweetness to your meal.
In Baked Goods
- Muffins: Spread on freshly baked muffins for a delightful taste experience.
- Cakes: Use it as a filling in cakes or layer it between cake slices for extra moisture and flavor.
As a Dip
- Snack Boards: Serve with apple slices or graham crackers as part of a snack board for entertaining guests.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Butter Recipe
To achieve the best results with your pumpkin butter recipe, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Choose high-quality canned pumpkin puree and fresh spices to enhance the flavor.
- Adjust Sweetness: Taste the mixture before cooking and adjust the brown sugar according to your preference.
- Cook Low and Slow: For deeper flavors, allow the pumpkin butter to cook on low heat for longer periods if time permits.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add more spices such as allspice or cardamom for an exciting flavor profile.
- Store Properly: Store your pumpkin butter in airtight jars in the refrigerator for freshness, or freeze for long-term storage.
- Serve Warm: Enjoy it warm; this enhances the flavor and makes it even more comforting.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Butter Recipe
Pumpkin butter pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your meal.
- Cream Cheese Toast: Spread cream cheese on toast and top it with pumpkin butter for a creamy, sweet bite.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt, granola, and pumpkin butter in a glass for a nutritious breakfast option.
- Savory Biscuits: Serve buttermilk biscuits alongside pumpkin butter as an indulgent treat during brunch.
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair roasted sweet potatoes or carrots drizzled with pumpkin butter for added sweetness.
- Cheese Board: Include soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese on your cheese board with pumpkin butter as an interesting spread.
- Granola Bars: Enjoy homemade granola bars with a smear of pumpkin butter to boost flavor and nutrition.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making pumpkin butter is simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your batch. Here are some pitfalls to avoid for the best results.
- Using the wrong type of pumpkin: Always use 100% pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, which contains added sugars and spices.
- Skipping the spices: Spices like cinnamon and nutmeg are essential for flavor. Don’t skip them or use stale spices; fresh spices enhance taste.
- Not stirring during cooking: Stirring ensures even cooking and prevents sticking. Be sure to give your mixture a stir halfway through the cooking time.
- Overcooking: Cooking too long can alter the texture. Follow the recommended cooking times closely for perfect consistency.
- Ignoring storage guidelines: Improper storage can spoil your pumpkin butter quickly. Make sure to store it in airtight containers.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in airtight containers for up to 1 week.
- Allow pumpkin butter to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing Pumpkin Butter Recipe
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 6 months.
- Leave some space at the top of containers as it will expand when frozen.
Reheating Pumpkin Butter Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pumpkin butter in an oven-safe dish and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until warm.
- Stovetop: Place on low heat in a saucepan, stirring frequently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Pumpkin Butter Recipe?
Pumpkin butter is a spread made from pureed pumpkin combined with sugar and spices, creating a sweet and flavorful topping perfect for toast or desserts.
How do I make Pumpkin Butter in a Crock Pot?
To make pumpkin butter in a crock pot, combine the ingredients and cook on LOW for 4 hours or HIGH for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Can I customize my Pumpkin Butter Recipe?
Yes! You can adjust spices or add extras like vanilla extract or maple syrup for unique flavors that suit your taste preferences.
How long does homemade Pumpkin Butter last?
Homemade pumpkin butter lasts about one week in the refrigerator and up to six months when frozen if stored properly.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Butter Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect as a spread on toast or as an ice cream topping, it invites endless customization. Experiment with your favorite spices or sweeteners to create your own version. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the warm flavors of fall all year round!

Pumpkin Butter Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 32 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this easy Pumpkin Butter Recipe. This delightful spread transforms simple canned pumpkin into a velvety treat that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert. With just a few ingredients, this warm blend of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg delivers a comforting sweetness that’s ideal for spreading on toast, drizzling over ice cream, or enhancing your favorite baked goods. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or looking for a thoughtful gift, this pumpkin butter is sure to impress. Enjoy its rich flavor year-round and make it a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients
- 45 oz canned 100% pumpkin puree
- 2 ½ cups light brown sugar
- 2 cups apple juice
- 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground cloves
- ⅛ tsp ground ginger
- Dash of salt
Instructions
- In a slow cooker, combine pumpkin puree, brown sugar, apple juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and salt. Stir until well mixed.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours or HIGH for 2 hours until thickened and aromatic.
- Once cooked, stir again and let cool for an hour before transferring to jars.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons (30g)
- Calories: 66
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: <1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg