Homemade Pumpkin Butter Recipe
Introduction
Pumpkin butter is a rich, spiced spread that’s perfect for fall mornings or anytime you crave the cozy flavors of autumn. Made from pumpkin puree and warming spices, this recipe yields a smooth and flavorful butter that’s wonderful on toast, pancakes, or swirled into yogurt.

Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Step 1: In a slow cooker, add pumpkin puree, brown sugar, apple juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and salt. Stir until everything is well combined.
- Step 2: Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours or on HIGH for 2 hours, stirring once when done.
- Step 3: Let the pumpkin butter cool on the counter for about an hour before spooning it into jars.
- Alternative Stove-Top Method: If you don’t have a slow cooker or are short on time, combine all the ingredients in a large saucepan. Set over low heat and simmer slowly for 30 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking.
Tips & Variations
- For a smoother texture, you can blend the pumpkin butter briefly after cooking.
- Adjust the sweetness by using less or more brown sugar according to taste.
- Add a splash of vanilla extract for extra depth of flavor once cooking is complete.
- Use apple cider instead of apple juice for a richer taste.
Storage
Store pumpkin butter in airtight jars or containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, freeze in small portions and thaw as needed. Reheat gently in a saucepan or microwave before serving.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
Yes, you can roast and puree fresh pumpkin; just make sure to cook it down to a thick consistency similar to canned puree before starting the recipe.
Is pumpkin butter sweet enough to eat on its own?
Yes, pumpkin butter is nicely sweetened and spiced, making it delicious on its own or as a spread on bread, muffins, and more.
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Homemade Pumpkin Butter Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (slow cooker) or 40 minutes (stovetop)
- Yield: About 4 cups pumpkin butter 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and flavorful homemade pumpkin butter made with pumpkin puree, apple juice, and warm spices, slow-cooked or simmered on the stovetop to create a thick, spreadable treat perfect for toast, desserts, or seasonal dishes.
Ingredients
Primary Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add the pumpkin puree, brown sugar, apple juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and salt to your slow cooker or a large saucepan. Stir until all ingredients are well combined.
- Slow Cook Option: Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours or on HIGH for 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld and the mixture to thicken slowly.
- Stovetop Option: If you prefer or lack a slow cooker, place the combined ingredients in a large saucepan. Set the saucepan over low heat and slowly simmer for 30 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Finish and Cool: Once cooked, stir the pumpkin butter once more. Allow it to cool on the counter for about an hour before spooning into jars for storage or serving.
Notes
- Using apple cider instead of apple juice will add a richer flavor.
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar to your preferred sweetness level.
- Store pumpkin butter in airtight jars in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Can be used as a spread on toast, an ingredient in baking, or a topping for oatmeal and yogurt.
- Make sure to stir occasionally during slow cooking to prevent burning on the edges.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (slow cooker LOW) or 30 minutes (stovetop simmer)
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: pumpkin butter, pumpkin spread, slow cooker pumpkin, stovetop pumpkin butter, fall recipes, autumn spread, pumpkin puree recipe

