Paleo-Friendly Pumpkin Butter Snack
Sep 08, 2017
Looking for a simple, flavorful snack that captures everything you love about fall? This homemade pumpkin butter is a delicious place to start.
Made with pumpkin puree, coconut oil, warm spices, and a touch of natural sweetness, this easy recipe brings together classic seasonal flavors in a smooth, spreadable treat.
Whether you're following a paleo-inspired eating plan or simply looking for a homemade alternative to store-bought spreads, this pumpkin butter is easy to prepare and customize.
Making Healthy Eating Simple
In this original Complete Nutrition video, fitness and nutrition coach Lauren Rae discusses the basics of the paleo diet and shares practical ideas for eating more whole foods.
Original Complete Nutrition video featuring Lauren Rae.
Why Make Your Own Pumpkin Butter?
Homemade pumpkin butter gives you control over the ingredients and sweetness level.
Pumpkin provides beta-carotene, a pigment the body can convert to vitamin A, along with fiber and other naturally occurring nutrients.
Cinnamon, nutmeg, and other pumpkin pie spices bring warm flavor without requiring a long list of ingredients.
Best of all, this recipe takes only a few minutes of hands-on preparation.
Paleo-Friendly Pumpkin Butter
A smooth, lightly sweetened pumpkin spread with warm fall spices. Perfect for adding seasonal flavor to your favorite snacks.
Ingredients
- 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 tablespoons raw honey or pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- Small pinch of salt (optional)
- Freshly grated nutmeg for topping (optional)
Instructions
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Warm the pumpkin. Add the pumpkin puree, coconut oil, and pumpkin pie spice to a small saucepan.
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Bring to a simmer. Heat over medium, stirring frequently, until the mixture begins to gently simmer. Reduce the heat to low.
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Add sweetness. Stir in the honey or maple syrup, vanilla extract, and optional salt.
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Cook until thickened. Continue cooking over low heat for approximately 15–20 minutes, stirring regularly to prevent sticking.
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Allow to cool. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the pumpkin butter cool. The mixture will thicken further as it cools.
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Finish and serve. Add a little freshly grated nutmeg if desired. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Three Ways to Enjoy Pumpkin Butter
Apple Slices
Spread a little pumpkin butter onto fresh apple slices for a sweet, crisp seasonal snack.
Breakfast Topping
Add a spoonful to oatmeal, yogurt, or another favorite breakfast dish.
Toast or Crackers
Enjoy it on your favorite toast, crackers, or paleo-friendly baked goods.
Recipe Tips & Storage
Adjust the texture: Some canned pumpkin purees contain more moisture than others. If your mixture seems too thin, simmer it a little longer while stirring.
Adjust the sweetness: Start with less honey or maple syrup if you prefer a less sweet spread.
Store safely: Transfer the cooled pumpkin butter to a clean, airtight container and refrigerate promptly. Use within 3–4 days or freeze for longer storage. This recipe is not intended for shelf-stable canning.
A Simple Approach to Paleo-Inspired Eating
Paleo-style eating generally emphasizes foods such as fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, eggs, nuts, and seeds while limiting certain processed foods.
Not everyone needs to follow a strict paleo diet to enjoy recipes built around recognizable ingredients.
This pumpkin butter is an easy example of a homemade recipe that can fit a variety of eating preferences.
A Little Taste of Fall.
Healthy eating doesn't have to mean giving up your favorite seasonal flavors.
With just a few ingredients and a short amount of preparation, this pumpkin butter delivers the warm, comforting flavors of fall in a simple homemade spread.
Make a small batch, experiment with your favorite toppings, and enjoy a little pumpkin flavor whenever you're craving something seasonal.
Original recipe and video featuring Lauren Rae, Dallas Fitness and Nutrition Coach. Updated for clarity and presentation.
