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When fall arrives, there’s nothing better than filling your kitchen with the warm flavors of pumpkin, cinnamon, and cloves. This 20 Minute Pumpkin Butter is thick, creamy, and packed with cozy spices. Best of all, it comes together in just one saucepan and is perfect for spreading on toast, biscuits, pancakes, waffles, or even stirring into oatmeal and yogurt.

Fall is in the air, and we are celebrating our love of pumpkin with #PumpkinWeek hosted by Terri from Love and Confections and Christie from A Kitchen Hoor's Adventures. 

If you love the best pumpkin recipes, then you are going to love my super easy 20 minute pumpkin butter. It is made similar to apple butter or any kind of jelly you use on biscuits and toast. 

If you love pumpkin season as much as I do, this easy homemade pumpkin butter is a must-make recipe. It tastes like pumpkin pie filling but with a silky, spreadable texture that makes everything taste like fall.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Rich, warm fall flavors in every bite
• Ready in just 20 minutes
• Made with simple pantry ingredients
• Perfect for breakfast or dessert
• Great for gifting during the holidays
• No special equipment required

What Is Pumpkin Butter?

Pumpkin butter is a smooth spread made by slowly cooking pumpkin puree with sweeteners and warm spices. Unlike apple butter, which cooks for hours, this quick version develops incredible flavor in just 20 minutes.

It’s delicious on:

• Toast or English muffins
• Biscuits and scones
• Pancakes and waffles
• Oatmeal
• Yogurt parfaits
• Ice cream
• Cheesecake
• Swirled into coffee drinks

How to Make 20 Minute Pumpkin Butter

Take all of your ingredients and add them to a large pot on the stovetop and cook over medium heat until it begins to bubble.

Reduce the heat to simmer and cook uncovered for about 15-20 minutes.

If you have more time and want to deepen the flavor of the pumpkin butter even more, you can let it cook another 15 minutes or so. 

Now, transfer everything to glass jars and either give it as gifts or store it in your fridge until you are ready to use. You can freeze it for a couple of months and you can also leave it in the fridge for almost a month.

It is so good on toast! You will love the depth of flavor in this super easy 20-minute pumpkin butter.

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Butter

• Use pure pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling.
• Stir often to avoid splattering.
• Adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more maple syrup.
• For extra spice, add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger.
• Let it chill completely before serving for the best texture.

Storage

Store homemade pumpkin butter in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Because pumpkin butter is low in acidity, it is not considered safe for home canning unless using a tested pressure-canning recipe. Freezing is a better option for long-term storage.

Variations

Slow Cooker Pumpkin Butter

Cook all ingredients on low for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally.

Honey Pumpkin Butter

Replace the maple syrup with honey for a slightly different sweetness.

Bourbon Pumpkin Butter

Add 1 tablespoon bourbon during the last few minutes of cooking for a rich, sophisticated flavor.

Spiced Pumpkin Butter

Add a pinch of ginger and nutmeg for extra warmth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze 20 Minute pumpkin butter?

Yes! Freeze it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.

Can I use fresh pumpkin?

Absolutely. Homemade pumpkin puree works beautifully, just make sure it is well-drained and smooth.

Why is my 20 Minute pumpkin butter too thin?

It will thicken considerably as it cools. If needed, simmer it for a few extra minutes.

Can I make 20 Minute Pumpkin Butter sugar-free?

Yes. Replace the brown sugar and maple syrup with your favorite sugar substitute.

Looking for other jam and jelly recipes? Check these out!

• Green Pepper Jelly
• Red Pepper Jelly
• Pear Vanilla Jam
• Orange Jelly
• Blackberry Jam
• Freezer Strawberry Jam
• Peach Jam
• Bacon Jam
• Crockpot Blueberry Butter