Alton Brown Pumpkin Puree Recipe

This Alton Brown Pumpkin Puree Recipe is a simple and smooth homemade method, which uses fresh pumpkin and kosher salt. It’s a no-fuss take on the classic, ready in about 1 hour and 50 minutes.

Alton Brown Pumpkin Puree Recipe Ingredients

• 1 (4- to 6-pound) baking pumpkin, rinsed and dried
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

How To Make Alton Brown Pumpkin Puree Recipe

1. Prep the pumpkin: Preheat oven to 400ºF and line a half-sheet pan with parchment. Cut a thin slice off one side of the pumpkin so it lays flat.
2. Cut and clean: Use a cleaver and mallet to remove the stem and split the pumpkin in half. Scoop out seeds and fiber. Reserve seeds if desired.
3. Roast the pumpkin: Sprinkle flesh with salt and lay the halves flesh-side down on the prepared pan. Roast for 30 to 45 minutes until tender when pierced with a knife.
4. Cool the pumpkin: Let cool on a wire rack for 1 hour.
5. Make the puree: Scoop out the flesh and place into a food processor. Blend until completely smooth, about 3 to 4 minutes.

Recipe Tips

• How to pick the right pumpkin: Use baking pumpkins like sugar pie or Cinderella — they’re sweeter and less watery than carving pumpkins.
• Why salt the flesh before roasting?
  It enhances flavor and helps draw out moisture during roasting.
• Can I use an immersion blender instead?
  Yes, but for the smoothest results, a food processor is best.
• What if my puree is too watery?
  Strain it through cheesecloth or a fine mesh sieve for a thicker consistency.

What To Use Pumpkin Puree For

This homemade puree is perfect in a variety of fall and holiday recipes like:

• Pumpkin pie
• Pumpkin bread or muffins
• Pancakes or waffles
• Pumpkin soup
• Dog treats

How To Store Pumpkin Puree

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Freeze: Transfer to freezer bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.

Pumpkin Puree Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 49 (per 1/2 cup)
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 2g
• Fat: 0g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g

Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.

FAQs

Can I use this puree instead of canned pumpkin?
Yes! Use a 1:1 substitution in most recipes.

How to make the puree thicker?
Let it drain in a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth for a few hours.

Do I need to peel the pumpkin first?
No, the skin is removed after roasting for easier handling.

Can I roast the seeds too?
Absolutely — rinse, season, and roast separately at 325°F for 20–25 minutes.

Try More Recipes:

• Alton Brown Blueberry Pie Recipe
• Alton Brown Bagels Recipe
• Alton Brown Caramelized Onion Dip Recipe