Introduction
This recipe is about making pumpkin butter and then canning it safely so you can enjoy it later. Pumpkin butter is a spread made from pumpkin puree, spices, and sweeteners. It is thick, smooth, and full of deep pumpkin taste. When you can it, you seal it in jars so it lasts for many months. In this article I will show you how to make it step by step, how to can it, and how to store it.
Many people love pumpkin butter because it brings warm flavor and comfort. It is like a cozy hug for your taste buds. In autumn, pumpkins are in season, and pumpkin butter catches the spirit of fall. It is sweet but mild, and the spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger make it smell amazing. Spread it on toast, mix it into yogurt, stir it into oatmeal or pancakes, or use it as a gift in jars. Because it is homemade, you can control how much sugar you use and which spices you like best.
You might make pumpkin butter and can it for many reasons. Maybe you want a homemade gift for friends and family. Maybe you love the flavor and want to enjoy it over months without waste. Maybe you follow a fitness or diet plan and want a spread that is lower in sugar or made with pure ingredients. Or you simply want something special for your cozy breakfast in cold weather. The act of canning gives you joy too—you feel proud to open a jar months later and taste your own work. You might make it when pumpkins are fresh, or when you have time at home and want a project that lasts.
Ingredients You Will Need
Here is a clear list of ingredients with quantities:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pumpkin puree (canned or home made) | 4 cups |
| Apple juice (unsweetened) | 1 cup |
| Brown sugar | 1 cup, packed |
| White sugar | ½ cup |
| Maple syrup or honey | ¼ cup |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground ginger | ½ teaspoon |
| Ground nutmeg | ¼ teaspoon |
| Pinch of ground cloves | ⅛ teaspoon (or one small pinch) |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | ⅛ teaspoon |
| Butter (optional, unsalted) | 1 tablespoon |
Notes:
- You can adjust sugar amounts up or down to your taste.
- If you want to skip butter, you may, but it gives creaminess.
- If you use home made pumpkin puree, ensure it is smooth and drained of excess water.
Step by Step Method
Below is a method in simple steps. Follow carefully, especially in canning part. Beginners will find it clear.
Step 1: Prepare Jars and Lids
- Wash your canning jars, lids, and rings in warm soapy water. Rinse well.
- Keep jars hot (you may place them in a pot of simmering water or in a warm oven). This helps prevent breakage when filling.
- Bring lids in a small pot of hot (not boiling) water, just to warm them. Keep them moist.
Step 2: Mix Ingredients
- In a large heavy pot (deep pan) place the pumpkin puree, apple juice, brown sugar, white sugar, maple syrup (or honey), salt, and spices (cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves).
- Stir gently to combine all ingredients. Use a whisk or spoon to break any lumps.
- Add the apple cider vinegar. This gives brightness and helps preservation.
Step 3: Cook the Mixture
TO CONTINUE READING THE ARTICLE PLEASE SEE PAGE 2
