Slow Cooker Pumpkin Butter

Name: Slow Cooker Pumpkin Butter
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-481916H51M1S
Total time: PT-481916H51M1S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (29 oz) can pumpkin puree (or about 3 1/2 cups homemade pumpkin puree); 1 cup apple juice or cider; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves; 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice; 1/4 teaspoon salt

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Fall is synonymous with warm, cozy flavors, and nothing says autumn like a jar of Slow Cooker Pumpkin Butter. This versatile spread is packed with the sweet and spicy essence of pumpkin, making it the perfect addition to your seasonal recipes. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, swirling it into yogurt, or using it as a baking ingredient, pumpkin butter adds a rich, delicious depth to any dish. Plus, using a slow cooker makes it almost effortless!

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll show you how to make the best Slow Cooker Pumpkin Butter, complete with step-by-step instructions, pro tips, and answers to your most frequently asked questions. Ready to bring the taste of fall into your kitchen?

What Is Slow Cooker Pumpkin Butter?

Before diving into the recipe, let’s clarify what exactly pumpkin butter is. Unlike traditional butter, pumpkin butter isn’t made from dairy—it’s a sweet, spiced spread made from pumpkin puree, sugar, and aromatic spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Cooking it low and slow allows the flavors to meld, and the mixture thickens into a creamy, spreadable texture. The result is a pumpkin-spiced treat that’s bursting with the taste of fall.

Why Make Pumpkin Butter in a Slow Cooker?

Using a slow cooker to make pumpkin butter has several benefits:

Convenience: The slow cooker does all the work for you, freeing up time for other tasks.
Enhanced Flavor: Cooking the pumpkin puree low and slow allows the spices to fully infuse the butter, resulting in a deeper, richer flavor.

No Babysitting: You won’t have to stand over a stove stirring constantly. Just set it and forget it!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Pumpkin Butter

Gather these simple ingredients, and you’re on your way to creating the perfect fall spread:

1 (29 oz) can pumpkin puree (or 3 1/2 cups homemade pumpkin puree)

1 cup apple juice or cider
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon ground ginger

1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon salt

This list is packed with fall flavors, and you can adjust the spices or sweetness to suit your preference.

Step-by-Step Directions for Slow Cooker Pumpkin Butter

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

First, get all your ingredients ready. In a slow cooker, combine the pumpkin puree, apple juice or cider, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, allspice, and salt. Stir well to ensure everything is mixed thoroughly.

Step 2: Cook the Pumpkin Butter

Cover your slow cooker, leaving the lid slightly ajar to allow steam to escape. This will help the pumpkin butter thicken to the right consistency. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, stirring occasionally. As it cooks, the mixture will darken and become thicker, eventually reaching that ideal, spreadable texture.

Step 3: Cool and Store

Once your pumpkin butter has cooked to perfection, allow it to cool to room temperature. Transfer it to airtight containers or mason jars. Store in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to two weeks. If you’d like to store it longer, freezing it is a great option—it can last up to three months in the freezer.

Notes and Tips for Perfect Pumpkin Butter

Here are a few helpful tips to ensure your Slow Cooker Pumpkin Butter turns out perfectly every time:

Use High-Quality Pumpkin Puree: Whether you use canned or homemade pumpkin puree, make sure it’s unsweetened and of good quality. Avoid using pumpkin pie filling, as it contains added sugars and spices.

Spice to Taste: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. If you want a stronger spice kick, add a little more cinnamon or nutmeg. Alternatively, for a milder flavor, reduce the spice quantities.
Thickness: If your pumpkin butter isn’t as thick as you’d like after 8 hours, let it cook for an additional 30 minutes to an hour with the lid off.
Sweetness: Adjust the sugar levels to suit your taste. For a healthier version, you can experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

Nutritional Information & Health Benefits of Pumpkin Butter

One of the reasons Slow Cooker Pumpkin Butter is so popular is because it’s not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional value:

Nutrition Details (per serving):

Calories: 60
Carbohydrates: 15g

Protein: 1g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g

Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 60mg
Fiber: 3g

Sugar: 12g
Vitamin A: 100% DV
Calcium: 4% DV

Iron: 3% DV

Health Benefits of Pumpkin

Rich in Vitamin A: Pumpkin is loaded with Vitamin A, which is vital for eye health and boosting your immune system.
Good Source of Fiber: The fiber in pumpkin can help improve digestion and keep you feeling full longer.

Low in Calories: Despite its rich flavor, pumpkin is low in calories, making it a great option for those watching their weight.
Packed with Antioxidants: The spices in this recipe, like cinnamon and nutmeg, have antioxidant properties, which can help protect your body from oxidative stress.

Ways to Use Slow Cooker Pumpkin Butter

Wondering how to use your freshly made pumpkin butter? Here are some delicious ideas:

Spread on Toast or Bagels: For a quick breakfast, spread pumpkin butter on toast, bagels, or English muffins.
Swirl into Oatmeal or Yogurt: Add a spoonful of pumpkin butter to your morning oatmeal or yogurt for an autumn-inspired twist.
Use in Baking: Substitute pumpkin butter for regular butter in baked goods like muffins or cakes for a seasonal upgrade.

Serve with Cheese: Pair pumpkin butter with soft cheeses like cream cheese or ricotta for a unique appetizer.
Mix into Smoothies: Add a tablespoon to your smoothie for extra flavor and nutrients.

FAQs about Slow Cooker Pumpkin Butter

Can I Use Fresh Pumpkin Instead of Canned?

Yes, you can! If you prefer fresh pumpkin, simply roast or steam it until soft, then puree it. Use about 3 1/2 cups of fresh pumpkin puree in place of canned.

How Long Does Pumpkin Butter Last in the Fridge?

When stored in an airtight container, pumpkin butter will last up to two weeks in the fridge. You can also freeze it for up to three months for longer storage.

Can I Can Pumpkin Butter for Long-Term Storage?

No, pumpkin butter is not suitable for canning due to its low acidity, which makes it unsafe for home canning. Freezing is the recommended storage method.

How Do I Know When Pumpkin Butter Is Ready?

Your pumpkin butter is ready when it reaches a thick, spreadable consistency and has darkened in color. If it’s too thin, continue cooking with the lid off until it thickens.

Can I Add Other Flavors?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional spices like cardamom or vanilla extract to customize the flavor to your liking.

Conclusion

Making Slow Cooker Pumpkin Butter at home is not only easy, but it’s also a fantastic way to celebrate the flavors of fall. With just a handful of ingredients and a little patience, you’ll have a rich, flavorful spread that you can use in a variety of ways. Whether you enjoy it on toast or stir it into your favorite recipes, this homemade pumpkin butter will be a hit all season long. Give it a try and see how it transforms your autumn dishes!

By following this guide, you’ll have a delicious, homemade jar of Slow Cooker Pumpkin Butter to enjoy throughout the season. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and embrace the warm, comforting flavors of fall!

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