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A can of pumpkin puree is one of the most versatile ingredients you can keep in your pantry.
It’s not just for pie anymore, and once you realize how many things you can do with a can of pumpkin puree, you’ll want to stock up.
Whether you bought an extra can for the holidays or you’re staring at one wondering what to do with a can of pumpkin puree, this post will give you plenty of ideas.
We’ll cover sweet and savory ways to use pumpkin puree, plus a few tips so nothing goes to waste.
Let’s get into it.
What to Do With a Can of Pumpkin Puree: Sweet Ideas
The easiest way to use a can of pumpkin puree is in something sweet, and here’s why it works so well.
1. Bake a Classic Pumpkin Pie
The most obvious thing to do with a can of pumpkin puree is to bake a pumpkin pie.
It’s literally what the can was made for, and the recipe on the back of the label is usually solid.
Just mix the puree with eggs, evaporated milk, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice, pour it into a crust, and bake.
If you want to know what to do with a can of pumpkin puree without overthinking it, start here.
2. Whip Up Pumpkin Pancakes
Stir a few spoonfuls of pumpkin puree into your pancake batter for a breakfast upgrade.
The puree adds moisture, a subtle sweetness, and that warm orange color.
Add a pinch of cinnamon and nutmeg, and suddenly you have fall on a plate any time of year.
This is a great way to use a can of pumpkin puree if you don’t want to bake a whole pie.
3. Make Pumpkin Bread or Muffins
Pumpkin bread is another fantastic option when you’re figuring out what to do with a can of pumpkin puree.
It uses up a good amount of the can, freezes well, and tastes even better the next day.
You can bake it as a loaf or turn it into muffins for easy grab-and-go snacks.
A little cream cheese frosting on top never hurts either.
4. Blend It Into a Smoothie
If you want a quick way to use pumpkin puree, toss a scoop into your morning smoothie.
It blends right in with banana, yogurt, and a splash of milk, and it adds fiber and vitamins without a strong flavor.
A dash of cinnamon makes it taste like a pumpkin pie shake, which is a pretty great way to start the day.
Savory Ways to Use a Can of Pumpkin Puree
Pumpkin puree isn’t just for sweets, and using it in savory dishes is a smart move when you’re wondering what to do with a can of pumpkin puree.
1. Stir It Into Soup
Add a cup of pumpkin puree to a pot of soup for extra body and a silky texture.
It works beautifully in tomato soup, lentil soup, or a simple broth-based vegetable soup.
The puree thickens things up naturally and adds a mild sweetness that balances out savory flavors.
This is one of the best answers to what to do with a can of pumpkin puree if you’re cooking dinner and want something cozy.
2. Make a Creamy Pasta Sauce
Melt some butter, add garlic, stir in pumpkin puree, and finish with cream or milk and a little parmesan.
Toss it with pasta and you’ve got a rich, comforting sauce in minutes.
A pinch of sage or nutmeg takes it to the next level.
If you’ve been stuck on what to do with a can of pumpkin puree, this pasta sauce is a game changer.
3. Fold It Into Mac and Cheese
Stir a few tablespoons of pumpkin puree into your mac and cheese sauce.
It blends right into the cheese, adds a lovely golden color, and sneaks in some extra nutrients.
The kids won’t even notice, and you’ll feel good about using up that can.
4. Add It to Chili or Curry
Pumpkin puree is a natural fit for chili and curry.
It thickens the sauce, rounds out the spice, and adds a subtle earthy sweetness.
Just stir in half a can near the end of cooking and let it simmer for a few minutes.
It’s an easy way to use pumpkin puree without making dessert.
Other Clever Ways to Use Pumpkin Puree
Beyond cooking, there are plenty of other uses for pumpkin puree that might surprise you.
1. Freeze It in Ice Cube Trays
If you can’t use the whole can at once, spoon the leftovers into an ice cube tray and freeze.
Once frozen, pop the cubes into a bag and grab one whenever a recipe calls for a couple of tablespoons.
This is the easiest way to make sure you never waste pumpkin puree again.
2. Use It for DIY Dog Treats
Pumpkin puree is safe for dogs in small amounts and makes a great base for homemade treats.
Mix it with oats and an egg, roll out the dough, and bake until firm.
It’s a simple, healthy treat your pup will love, and it’s a fun way to use up a can of pumpkin puree.
3. Add It to Oatmeal or Yogurt
Stir a spoonful of pumpkin puree into your morning oatmeal or a bowl of yogurt.
Add cinnamon, a drizzle of honey, and some nuts, and you’ve got a hearty breakfast with almost no effort.
It’s a small but satisfying answer to what to do with a can of pumpkin puree when you just want something simple.
4. Make a Face Mask
Pumpkin puree is packed with vitamins and enzymes that are good for your skin.
Mix it with a little honey and yogurt, apply it to your face, and rinse after 15 minutes.
It’s a fun, natural way to pamper yourself and use up a bit of that can.
So, What to Do With a Can of Pumpkin Puree?
What to do with a can of pumpkin puree comes down to how much time and effort you want to spend.
You can bake a pie, whip up pancakes, stir it into soup, or even freeze it for later.
The options are almost endless, and that’s what makes a can of pumpkin puree such a handy pantry staple.
I hope this post has given you plenty of ideas for what to do with a can of pumpkin puree, whether you’re in the mood for something sweet, savory, or just need to use it up before it goes to waste.
Now go grab that can and get cooking.