Name: Pumpkin Butter Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin purée; ½ cup apple cider or apple juice; ½ cup light brown sugar; 1–2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon ground ginger; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves; Pinch of salt; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make – With just one saucepan and a few ingredients, you can make this pumpkin butter in under 30 minutes.
Naturally Sweetened – This recipe uses light brown sugar and maple syrup for a naturally sweet taste, without any added preservatives.
Perfect for Fall – With spices like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves, it captures all the cozy flavors of fall.
Versatile – Spread it on toast, add it to your morning oatmeal, or use it in baked goods for a fall-inspired flavor boost.

Ingredients

1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin purée
½ cup apple cider or apple juice
½ cup light brown sugar
1–2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground ginger
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
Pinch of salt
½ teaspoon vanilla extract

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pumpkin Butter Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, stir together the pumpkin purée, apple cider, brown sugar, maple syrup (if using), cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until fully combined.

Step 2: Simmer Slowly

Set the pan over medium heat and cook until it begins to bubble. Lower the heat and simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even thickening. The mixture should darken and become thicker as it cooks.

Step 3: Add Vanilla

Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract to finish the flavor.

Step 4: Cool and Store

Let the pumpkin butter cool for 15 to 20 minutes. Transfer it to clean jars or airtight containers and refrigerate. It will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2-3 cups of pumpkin butter
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Smooth Pumpkin Butter: For a smoother texture, you can blend the mixture after cooking with an immersion blender.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or cloves for a spicy kick.
Sweeteners: Use honey or coconut sugar as a natural alternative to maple syrup or brown sugar.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store pumpkin butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating: If it thickens too much, reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of water or cider to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin purée instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin purée, but make sure it’s fully cooked and smooth before adding it to the recipe.

How do I know when the pumpkin butter is ready?

The pumpkin butter will thicken and darken in color as it cooks. When you spoon some onto a cold plate and run your finger through it, it should hold its shape and not run back together.

Can I can this recipe for long-term storage?

This recipe is not tested for safe canning, so it’s best to store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Avoid attempting to can this for shelf storage.

Can I make this recipe without the maple syrup?

Yes, you can skip the maple syrup if you prefer a less sweet version or want to reduce the sugar content. The brown sugar will still give it plenty of sweetness.

Can I use pumpkin pie spice instead of individual spices?

Yes, you can use pumpkin pie spice as a substitute for the cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Use about 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice in place of the individual spices.

Conclusion

This Pumpkin Butter is the perfect fall spread—rich, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. Whether you spread it on your morning toast, mix it into your oatmeal, or use it in baked goods, it adds a cozy, comforting pumpkin spice flavor to any dish. With simple ingredients and an easy, no-fuss process, this recipe is a must-try for pumpkin lovers and fall enthusiasts alike!

Pumpkin Butter Recipe

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This **Pumpkin Butter** is a luscious, spiced spread made with simple pantry ingredients, perfect for autumn mornings. With a rich, smooth texture and naturally sweet flavor, it’s ideal for spreading on toast, stirring into oatmeal, or even adding to baked goods. The best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes and requires no canning, making it super easy to prepare!

Author: Amy
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 2-3 cups of pumpkin butter
Category: Spread
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Step 1: Combine Ingredients – In a medium saucepan, stir together the pumpkin purée, apple cider, brown sugar, maple syrup (if using), cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt until fully combined.
Step 2: Simmer Slowly – Set the pan over medium heat and cook until it begins to bubble. Lower the heat and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even thickening. The mixture should darken and become thicker as it cooks.
Step 3: Add Vanilla – Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract to finish the flavor.
Step 4: Cool and Store – Let the pumpkin butter cool for 15-20 minutes. Transfer it to clean jars or airtight containers and refrigerate. It will continue to thicken slightly as it cools.