Homemade Instant Pot Pumpkin Puree: Your Essential Guide to Fresh Fall Flavor
As the leaves begin to turn vibrant shades of red and gold, and a crisp, inviting chill fills the air, there’s an undeniable call to embrace the comforting flavors of autumn. Few ingredients capture the essence of fall quite like pumpkin. While canned pumpkin puree is readily available, there’s something incredibly satisfying about creating your own from scratch. Imagine bringing home a beautiful whole pie pumpkin from the local farm stand and transforming it into luscious, smooth puree, perfect for all your favorite seasonal dishes. This guide will show you how to make the most delicious and incredibly easy homemade Instant Pot Pumpkin Puree, a game-changer for your fall kitchen endeavors.
Embracing the Abundance of Fall: From Farm to Table
One of the true joys of the autumn season, beyond the cozy sweaters and hearty soups, is the captivating sight of gorgeous, perfectly round pumpkins gracing doorsteps and street corners everywhere. Living in a community deeply rooted in farming, I experience this phenomenon perhaps more vividly than most. I am surrounded by dedicated farmers who earn a significant portion of their livelihood during the agritourism season, with pumpkin patches stretching along the roadsides and corn mazes bustling with eager visitors.
This particular time of year holds a special significance for me, and indeed for many across the Western hemisphere. It symbolizes a period of bountiful harvest, a time for gathering and preparing for the long, dormant winter months ahead. Fall is about celebrating the fruits of your labor, the yield from seeds sown six months or more ago, and meticulously preserving that harvest to sustain you until the first tender spinach shoots emerge in the spring. It’s a cyclical rhythm that connects us deeply to the land and its generosity.
Why Homemade Pumpkin Puree? Quality You Can Taste!
While canned pumpkin puree is convenient, there are several compelling reasons to make your own. Homemade puree offers an unparalleled freshness and a more vibrant, authentic pumpkin flavor that simply can’t be matched by store-bought versions. You’ll avoid any potential additives or preservatives often found in commercial products, giving you full control over the purity of your ingredients. Plus, the satisfaction of creating something so fundamental from scratch is incredibly rewarding. It’s a small step that elevates all your pumpkin recipes, from pies and muffins to savory dishes and seasonal lattes.
Making it Effortless with an Instant Pot
This dramatic shift in seasons also brings with it a wonderful opportunity to rekindle your passion in the kitchen, cooking up delicious, wholesome food from scratch. There’s immense joy in bringing home your bounty – whether it’s crisp apples from the orchard, plump pumpkins from the patch, or fresh produce from the farmer’s market – and transforming it into something both usable and long-lasting. This is precisely the case with this incredibly easy Instant Pot Pumpkin Puree!
Since the Instant Pot first appeared on the culinary scene, food preparation and preservation have been revolutionized, becoming simpler and more accessible than ever before. This versatile appliance effortlessly makes smooth applesauce (a task that used to involve so much peeling and straining!), and it masterfully transforms a humble whole pie pumpkin into velvety pumpkin puree in what feels like mere moments. I’ve even experimented with making delightful Refrigerator Dill Pickles using my trusty Instant Pot!
You are truly going to adore this straightforward method for making Instant Pot Pumpkin Puree. What you’ll love even more is the incredible depth of flavor it brings to all your cherished recipes. Let’s dive into how to get started:
Selecting the Perfect Pie Pumpkin
Before you even begin cooking, choosing the right pumpkin is crucial for the best puree. Not all pumpkins are created equal when it comes to culinary use. You’ll want to look for what’s typically labeled a “pie pumpkin” or “sugar pumpkin.” These varieties are specifically grown for their sweet, dense flesh and less stringy texture, making them ideal for baking and cooking. Unlike the larger carving pumpkins, which are often watery and bland, pie pumpkins deliver concentrated flavor and a smooth consistency.
- Size Matters: Pie pumpkins are generally small, ranging from 3 to 8 pounds. This size is perfect for fitting into an Instant Pot and ensures manageable portions of puree.
- Firmness: Choose a pumpkin that feels heavy for its size, indicating dense flesh. It should be firm to the touch with no soft spots or blemishes.
- Skin: The skin should be smooth and free from cuts, bruises, or mold. A vibrant orange color is a good indicator of ripeness.
- Stem: Look for a pumpkin with an intact stem. This helps prolong its shelf life and indicates it was properly harvested.
Most grocery stores and farmer’s markets will clearly label pie pumpkins, especially during the fall season. Don’t hesitate to ask a vendor if you’re unsure!
Ingredients and Essential Equipment
- Pumpkin: You will need one pie pumpkin, which is distinctly different from the larger pumpkins typically purchased for carving Jack-O-Lanterns. Pie pumpkins are smaller, contain fewer seeds, and boast a much denser, sweeter flesh. They should be clearly labeled and sold as pie pumpkins at your local grocery store or farmer’s market. Aim for one approximately 3-5 pounds for a good yield.
- Water: Essential for bringing your Instant Pot to pressure. The amount will vary slightly depending on your Instant Pot model (see instructions below).
Equipment
- Instant Pot: Any model of Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker will work wonderfully for making pumpkin puree! We’ll be utilizing the standard manual pressure setting, which is a feature available on all models. While a 6-quart model is perfectly functional, my personal recommendation is an 8-quart model, as it offers a bit more space, making it easier to fit the pumpkin halves inside. This is the one I use and love.
- Sharp Knife: Cutting through the thick, tough skin of squash and pumpkin can be quite a challenging task! It’s paramount that you use a very sharp, sturdy knife and exercise extreme caution to ensure safety while cutting.
- Trivet with Handles: If your Instant Pot model did not come equipped with a trivet that has handles for easy lifting, I highly recommend that you invest in one for both this recipe and future uses. While you can technically remove the cooked pumpkin with tongs, it tends to become very tender and might fall apart quickly. A trivet with handles makes the removal process significantly easier and safer.
- Food Processor: This appliance is essential for blending the cooked pumpkin into a beautifully smooth, uniform puree, which is ideal for baking and cooking. If you don’t own a food processor, you can achieve a similar smooth consistency by using a hand blender (immersion blender) or even a regular blender, processing the pumpkin in batches.
- Large Spoon or Ice Cream Scoop: For easily removing seeds and stringy bits.
- Heatproof Surface/Cutting Board: For resting the hot pumpkin.
How to Make Pumpkin Puree in an Instant Pot: Step-by-Step
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Begin by thoroughly washing the exterior of your pie pumpkin. Using a very sharp, sturdy knife, carefully cut the pumpkin in half. It helps to start by piercing the skin, then gently rocking the knife back and forth until it cuts through. Remove the stem entirely and place each pumpkin half, cut side up, on a stable cutting board.
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With a large spoon or an ice cream scoop, efficiently remove all the seeds and scrape away any stringy pulp from the inside cavity of each pumpkin half. Don’t discard those seeds! You can easily turn them into a tasty snack using my Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds recipe, if desired.
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Place the trivet (preferably one with handles) at the bottom of your Instant Pot’s inner pot. Pour in the appropriate amount of cool water: use 1 cup for a 6-quart Instant Pot model, and 1 ½ cups for an 8-quart model. This water is crucial for creating the steam needed for pressure cooking.
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Carefully place each cleaned pumpkin half into the Instant Pot, ensuring the cut sides are facing down. This helps the pumpkin cook more evenly and prevents it from getting waterlogged. Securely place the lid on your Instant Pot and rotate the valve to the “sealing” position.
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Cook on manual pressure (High Pressure) for 12 minutes. The Instant Pot will take some time to come to pressure before the 12-minute countdown begins.
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Once the cooking time has elapsed, carefully and with caution, switch the valve to “venting” to perform a manual quick release. Stand clear of the steam as it vents rapidly.
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After the pressure has fully released, the float valve (pin) on the lid will drop, signaling that it is safe to open. Open the lid slowly, tilting it away from your face to avoid any remaining steam. Use a pair of oven mitts or silicone pot lifters to carefully remove the trivet with the perfectly cooked pumpkin halves. Place them on a heatproof surface, such as a sturdy cutting board.
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Allow the cooked pumpkin to cool slightly – just enough so it’s comfortable to handle. Then, using your hands, carefully and easily remove the soft skin from the pumpkin flesh. It should peel off effortlessly!
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Discard or compost the skin, then transfer the tender pumpkin flesh to the bowl of your food processor. Blend on high speed until it becomes completely smooth and uniform, with no lumps remaining. You might need to stop and scrape down the sides a few times.
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Allow your freshly made Instant Pot pumpkin puree to cool completely to room temperature before storing or using in your favorite recipes!
Storage and Freezing for Future Fall Feasts
Once your Instant Pot pumpkin puree has been prepared, proper storage ensures you can enjoy its fresh flavor for days or even months to come. Having a batch of homemade puree ready to go means you’re always prepared for impromptu baking sessions or savory fall meals.
- Refrigeration: Transfer the cooled pumpkin puree to a glass or plastic airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the container is sealed well to maintain freshness.
- Freezing for Longer Storage: For extended preservation, freezing is your best option. Portion the cooled puree into 1 or 2-cup measurements. You can use freezer-safe bags (laying them flat to freeze for easy stacking), airtight containers, or even ice cube trays for smaller portions. Frozen puree can last for up to 6-8 months in the freezer without significant loss of quality.
- Thawing Frozen Puree: To use frozen puree, simply transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator the night before you plan to use it. For quicker thawing, you can place the freezer bag or container in a bowl of cold water. Once thawed, stir it well before using, as some separation may occur.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pumpkin Puree
Pumpkin puree is simply cooked pumpkin that has been blended or processed into a smooth, consistent paste. It’s primarily used as a base ingredient in various baked goods, desserts, and savory dishes, providing flavor, moisture, and texture.
Canned pumpkin comes in a few varieties. The most common is indeed “canned pumpkin puree,” which is typically 100% cooked and mashed pumpkin. However, there’s also “canned pumpkin pie filling,” which is not the same. It contains added sweeteners and spices, making it unsuitable for recipes calling for plain pumpkin puree.
No, these two products are not interchangeable. Pumpkin puree contains no additional sweeteners or spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, or cloves. Pumpkin pie filling, on the other hand, is pre-seasoned and sweetened. Substituting pie filling for puree would drastically alter the flavor profile and sweetness level of your recipe.
While there’s no definitive answer for all brands, several factors contribute to this difference. Part of it could be the specific cultivar of pumpkin used; for instance, Libby’s (a major canned pumpkin producer) uses a proprietary variety known as the Dickinson Pumpkin, which has a naturally vibrant orange flesh, more akin to a butternut squash than a typical carving pumpkin. Another theory is that in industrial processing, a small amount of the skin might be pureed along with the flesh, which could intensify the orange hue. Homemade puree, made from common pie pumpkins with their skins carefully removed, naturally tends to be a lighter, more golden yellow.
Homemade pumpkin puree offers complete control over ingredients, ensuring no added sugars, salts, or preservatives. While canned pumpkin puree is generally healthy and typically just pumpkin, making it at home guarantees maximum freshness and allows you to be certain about what goes into your food, especially if you source organic pie pumpkins.
Delicious Recipes That Utilize Pumpkin Puree
Once you have your fresh, homemade Instant Pot Pumpkin Puree, the culinary possibilities are endless! Here are some classic and delightful recipes where your puree will shine:
- Pumpkin Pie – Sally’s Baking Addiction: The ultimate fall dessert, made even better with fresh puree.
- Pumpkin Muffins – Cooking Classy: Perfect for breakfast or a snack, moist and flavorful.
- Pumpkin Bread – Once Upon a Chef: A comforting quick bread, wonderful with a cup of coffee.
- Pumpkin Scones – Cooking Classy: Recreate your favorite coffee shop treat at home.
- Pumpkin Spice Lattes: Skip the artificial syrups and use a spoonful of your homemade puree for an authentic flavor boost.
- Savory Soups: Incorporate puree into creamy pumpkin or butternut squash soups for extra richness.
- Pumpkin Pasta Sauce: A unique and delicious twist for a fall dinner.
And remember, don’t let those pumpkin seeds go to waste! Turn them into a crunchy, flavorful snack using my Air Fryer Pumpkin Seeds recipe!
Instant Pot Pumpkin Puree
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Ingredients
- 1 pie pumpkin approximately 3-5 pounds
- 1 – 1 ½ cups water
Instructions
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Start by washing your pie pumpkin and cutting it in half using a sharp knife. Remove the stem and place each half cut side up on a cutting board.
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Use a spoon to remove the seeds and scrape the stringy pulp from the inside cavity.
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Add the trivet to the bottom of your Instant Pot and pour in 1 cup of cool water for a 6 quart model, and 1 ½ cups for an 8 quart model.
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Place each cleaned pumpkin half in the Instant Pot, with the cut sides down. Place the lid on the pot and set the valve to “sealing.” Cook on manual pressure for 12 minutes.
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Once the cook time is up, carefully switch the valve to “venting” to do a manual quick release.
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Once the pressure has fully released, the pin will drop on the lid, indicating it is safe to open. Open the lid away from your face, and use a pair of oven mitts or silicone pot lifters to remove the trivet with the cooked pumpkin halves. Place on a heatproof surface, like a cutting board.
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Allow the cooked pumpkin to cool slightly, before using your hands to carefully remove the skin from the pumpkin. This should come off VERY easily!
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Discard or compost the skin, and transfer the flesh to the bowl of a food processor. Blend on high until smooth and uniform. Allow to cool to room temperature, and then store or use in your favorite pumpkin recipes!
Notes
Storage: Once the pumpkin puree has cooled completely to room temperature, transfer it to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in 1 or 2 cup portions for later use, which can last for several months.
Pumpkin puree consistency and substitutes: When substituting homemade pumpkin puree for canned pumpkin puree in recipes, you can generally use it in a 1:1 ratio. However, note that this homemade version tends to be a bit more watery than commercially processed puree. You may find it beneficial to slightly reduce the liquid ingredients in your recipe or add a touch more of the dry ingredients to achieve the desired consistency. Alternatively, if your homemade puree is too watery, you can gently simmer it in a saucepan over low heat for a few minutes to reduce some of the moisture before using.
Nutrition
Making your own Instant Pot Pumpkin Puree is a rewarding and surprisingly simple process that brings the authentic flavors of fall right into your kitchen. Say goodbye to guesswork about what’s in your can, and hello to fresh, vibrant, homemade goodness that will elevate all your seasonal baking and cooking. Enjoy the taste of autumn, made easy and delicious!
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