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20 Minute Pumpkin Butter

20 Minute Pumpkin Butter - Affordable Food Ideas

Let’s kick things off with some delicious pairings for your pumpkin butter. Picture this: a warm slice of toasted bread slathered with pumpkin butter, a dollop of cream cheese, and maybe a sprinkle of chia seeds. How about adding it to your morning oatmeal for a seasonal twist? 
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 180

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cans pumpkin purée: Make sure it's pure pumpkin, not pie mix. That’s key. 15-ounce
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice: This blend of spices is what gives it that signature flavor.
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: I love adding this to enhance the warmth of the spices.
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg optional
  • 2/3 cup coconut sugar or muscovado sugar: You can substitute it with organic brown sugar if needed.
  • 1/4 cup pure maple syrup: Grade A preferred for the best flavor—don't skimp!
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened apple juice: Fresh-pressed juice works wonders if you can find it.
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice: This gives a much-needed zesty lift.
  • 1 pinch sea salt: Just a dash—harmless yet effective to balance flavors.

Method
 

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
  1. Before you start cooking, make sure all your ingredients are in one place. It’s much more efficient, and you won’t run around trying to find things halfway through!
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Pot
  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the pumpkin purée, pumpkin pie spice, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg if you're using it. Then, add the coconut sugar, maple syrup, apple juice, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
Step 3: Heat the Mixture
  1. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture regularly as it heats up, allowing the spices to bloom and the flavors to meld together. This will only take about 5 to 10 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want it warm but not simmering.
Step 4: Adjust Consistency and Flavor
  1. Once your mixture is hot, taste it! Here's a pro tip: If you want it sweeter, consider adding more sugar or maple syrup. Adjusting the flavors is part of the fun. If you want it creamier, add a bit more apple juice.
Step 5: Cool and Store
  1. Once you’re satisfied with the flavor and warmth, remove it from the heat. Allow your pumpkin butter to cool for a few minutes. Transfer it to clean jars or containers, and make sure to refrigerate leftovers. This pumpkin butter will keep well in the fridge for about two weeks.
Step 6: Enjoy!
  1. Now comes the best part—enjoying your delicious pumpkin butter! Use it right away or let it sit and develop even more flavors.

Notes

  • Pumpkin Purée: It’s not just for pies. Rich in vitamins, it brings fiber and beta-carotene to the table.
  • Pumpkin Pie Spice: A blend of spices usually featuring cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. It's a staple for autumn recipes.
  • Ground Cinnamon: This spice has anti-inflammatory properties and adds warmth and sweetness.
  • Freshly Grated Nutmeg: Though optional, fresh nutmeg is much more potent than pre-ground. It offers a warm, nutty flavor.
  • Coconut Sugar: This natural sweetener has a lower glycemic index than regular sugar. Plus, it adds a caramel-like taste.
  • Maple Syrup: It's packed with antioxidants and gives that classic fall flavor we crave.
  • Apple Juice: This sweet, tart juice adds moisture without overpowering the pumpkin.
  • Lemon Juice: The acidity of lemon juice balances the sweetness, making the flavors pop.
  • Sea Salt: A small amount elevates other tastes better than table salt.