If you’re craving cozy fall flavors, this DIY Pumpkin Butter is a must-make!
It’s sweet, spiced, and perfect for spreading on toast, swirling into oatmeal, or gifting in cute little jars.
Made with canned pumpkin and warm spices, this recipe is simple, nostalgic, and better than anything you’d find on a store shelf—even the famous Trader Joe’s Pumpkin Butter.

Whether you’re making it to top your favorite breakfast foods or just want a spoonful of autumn in a jar, this old fashioned pumpkin butter recipe is full of rich flavor and ready in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 15 oz can pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- ¾ cup apple juice
- 1½ cups white sugar
- 2 tsp ground ginger
- ½ tsp ground cloves
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
Want to make it even cozier? Try adding a splash of maple syrup or a dash of vanilla for extra depth!

How to Make Pumpkin Butter
Step 1: Combine Everything
In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, add all the ingredients. Stir until fully combined.

Step 2: Bring to a Boil
Let the mixture come to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat.


Step 3: Simmer and Thicken
Allow the pumpkin butter to simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened to a spreadable consistency.

Step 4: Cool and Store
Once thickened, remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Spoon into mason jars or airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 weeks.

Why You’ll Love This Pumpkin Butter
- So much tastier than store-bought pumpkin spreads!
- Made with simple pantry staples
- Bursting with warm fall spice
- Perfect for spreading, gifting, or dipping
- A great way to use canned or fresh pumpkin
Ways to Use Pumpkin Butter
Wondering what to do with this dreamy spread? Here are some of our favorite ways to use pumpkin butter:
- Spread on toast, muffins, bagels, or pancakes
- Swirl into yogurt or oatmeal
- Add to smoothies or milkshakes for fall flavor
- Use as a filling in layer cakes, crepes, or thumbprint cookies
- Stir into cream cheese for a quick pumpkin dip
Pro tip: Try it warmed up over vanilla ice cream or mixed into your morning latte!
Storage Tips
- Store pumpkin butter in mason jars or any airtight container.
- Keep refrigerated and use within 2–3 weeks.
- Not safe for canning due to low acidity, but it freezes well for up to 6 months!
Quick Recipe Overview
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yields: About 2 cups
- Difficulty: Easy
📸 Don’t Forget the Photo Op!
Pumpkin butter in a jar is basically fall in photo form!
Try snapping a picture of your jars tied with twine and a handwritten label, or show it spread on toast with a sprinkle of cinnamon. A flat lay with apples, cinnamon sticks, and a cozy napkin gives serious autumn vibes. Don’t forget to tag your photos with #BiteSizedFun so we can see (and share!) your sweet, spiced creations.
More Pumpkin Recipes You’ll Love:
- Coming soon!
This homemade pumpkin butter in jars makes the perfect fall treat for your snack station, brunch table, or holiday gift baskets. It’s a cozy hug in spreadable form, and once you taste it, you’ll never go back to store-bought.
One More Thing!
This recipe is part of our collection of easy dessert recipes. Check it out!

Pumpkin Butter
Ingredients
- 15 oz can Pumpkin Puree
- ¾ c apple juice
- 2 tsp ground ginger
- ½ tsp ground cloves
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 1/2 c white sugar
Instructions
- In a medium sauce pan of medium high heat, place all of the ingredients and stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and reduce heat.
- Allow to simmer for 30 minutes or until the mixture has thickened.
- Place is mason jars and store in the refrigerator.