Homemade Instant Pot Pumpkin Puree – 2 Easy ways!

Fresh pumpkin puree is a must-have for fall! This easy pumpkin puree recipe can be added to any recipes that require pumpkin and it is so much better than the canned ones. Try this quick instant pot pumpkin puree recipe out!

Pumpkin puree is the key to so many delicious recipes during the fall season. But sometimes it’s nice to have a quick and easy way to make it without having to go through all the steps.

So today, I’m going to show you how to make pumpkin puree in your Instant Pot with two different methods.

Let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 1-2 pie pumpkins
• 1 ½ cups water

Supplies

• Instant Pot
• Trivet

Instructions (First Way)

1. Add water to the inner pot, and then add the trivet to the pot.
2. Cut the pumpkin top off, and then cut each pumpkin into 6 slices. Scoop/scrape seeds and pulp off of the pumpkin.
3. Place pumpkin slices on top of trivet and stack on top of each other.
4. Set the pressure valve to sealing, and then set for a manual high-pressure time of 6 minutes.
5. At the end of the cooking time, allow for a quick pressure release.
6. Remove pumpkin from the peeling and add to food processor.
7. Process the pumpkin until a nice puree has formed.
8. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

Instructions (Second Way)

1. Add water to the inner pot, and then add the trivet to the pot.
2. Cut the pumpkin stem off. Place whole pumpkin on top of trivet.
3. Set the pressure valve to sealing, and then set for a manual high-pressure time of 12 minutes.
4. At the end of the cooking time, allow for a natural pressure release.
5. Remove pumpkin from the pot. The peeling will pretty much fall off the pumpkin, and the seeds and pulp inside the pumpkin will also be easy to remove.
6. Add the pumpkin to food processor.
7. Process the pumpkin until a nice puree has formed.
8. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.

How to make pumpkin puree in an Instant Pot

Pumpkin puree is a must have for many pumpkin related recipes out there. Whether it’s pumpkin pie, pumpkin chocolate chip cookies or pumpkin cheesecake, pumpkin puree can make or break the recipe. Although this recipe is not as quick as opening a can of pumpkin puree with a can opener, you can taste the freshness of homemade pumpkin puree. Plus, homemade is healthier than the canned version.

Difference between fresh pumpkin puree, canned pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie filling

There are a lot of options when it comes to canned pumpkin that it can be hard to know what to buy or even what you already bought.

The main difference between pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie filling is that pumpkin pie filling usually has sweeteners, sugars and seasonings mixed in while pumpkin puree is simply pureed pumpkin.

Now the difference between fresh and canned pumpkin puree is a little more subtle, but still prevalent. This comparison made by Tessa Arias has a great description of the differences. Texture and taste are the two biggest differences.

Is fresh pumpkin puree healthier?

As with most things, homemade pumpkin puree is healthier because during the homemade cooking process, the natural nutrients are more preserved than with canned or processed pumpkin puree. Sometimes, salt or other things are mixed in with canned pumpkin puree. The best way is to use this simple recipe to make homemade pumpkin puree. It’s also really tasty!

What dishes use pumpkin puree?

Pumpkin puree is a must have for classic fall recipes that call for pumpkin. The texture and taste of fresh pureed pumpkin elevates any baked goods that call for pumpkin. Pumpkin chocolate chip cookies, pumpkin bread, pumpkin cheesecake, pumpkin pancakes… the dishes go on and on!

Square Collage of Recipe steps

Some benefits of using an Instant Pot

My favorite thing about the Instant Pot is that it is so easy to clean. There is no need to make any other pot or pan dirty. You can cook the whole recipe in just one pot which makes cleaning a breeze.

Another benefit is that Instant Pots cook food so much faster than traditional means. You can also put your food in the Instant pot and leave it to cook by itself while you do other important things on your to-do list.

Why is it so light?

Homemade pumpkin purée tends to be lighter than canned, though it can vary depending on the color of the pumpkin.

How long does this recipe last?

You can store this in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days in the refrigerator. You could also freeze it for longer if you want.

Other Fall Recipes

• Instant Pot Pot Roast
• Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
• Instant Pot Peppermint Cheesecake

Now that you know how to make your own pumpkin puree, which method will you try first? Let us know in the comments below or show us a photo of your finished product on Instagram by tagging @simplysidedishes
Happy cooking!