Pumpkin Puree vs Pumpkin Pie Filling: Which Should You Use?

Pumpkin pie filling and pumpkin puree are two popular ingredients used in fall baking, but what sets them apart? Even though these products look similar, they have distinct differences that can greatly impact your culinary creations. Whether you're looking to make a classic pumpkin pie or experiment with the flavors of pumpkin spice, understanding the differences between pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie filling is essential. Keep reading to learn all about canned pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie filling.

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Differences between Pumpkin Puree and Pumpkin Pie Filling

While both are made from cooked and mashed pumpkin, pumpkin puree is simply that - pure pumpkin. It contains no added sugars or spices, making it a versatile ingredient for both sweet and savory dishes. On the other hand, pumpkin pie filling is a pre-made mixture that already includes sugar, spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and thickeners. This makes it ideal for quickly whipping up a delicious pumpkin pie, but it may not be as versatile for other recipes. Learn more about the differences between pure pumpkin and pumpkin pie filling below:

  • Labels - Check the labels carefully to make sure you pick the right product. Cans of pumpkin puree will be labeled as 100% pure pumpkin, pumpkin puree, or just pumpkin. Pumpkin pie filling will be labeled as pumpkin pie mix or pumpkin pie filling.
  • Ingredients - Pumpkin puree made from scratch contains only pumpkin, but canned puree may contain a preservative like salt. Pumpkin pie filling contains additional ingredients like sugar, spices, and thickeners.
  • Flavor - Pure pumpkin puree has a slightly sweet, earthy taste. Pumpkin pie filling is sweeter with the fall flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
  • Texture - The consistency of pure pumpkin puree is smooth and velvety, while pumpkin pie filling is thick and custard-like.
  • Applications - You can use pumpkin puree in a variety of sweet and savory recipes, from pumpkin muffins to pumpkin ravioli. Pumpkin pie filling is best for pumpkin pies or other sweet desserts.

Now that we've explained the main differences between pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie filling, let's dive deeper into what makes these ingredients unique.

What Is Pumpkin Puree?

pumpkin pie filling and sugar in bowls on a cutting board

Pumpkin puree is simply the cooked, mashed flesh of an edible pumpkin. The most common types of pumpkins used to make pumpkin puree are the Cinderella pumpkin and the Sugar pumpkin. Both of these winter squashes are small enough to handle easily, and they have sweet flesh that produces a smooth puree.

  • Canned Pumpkin Puree - Canned pumpkin puree is the most common type of pumpkin puree found in stores. It is made from cooked and mashed pumpkin flesh, which is then strained to remove any excess liquid. The result is a smooth and creamy puree that is ready to use in your recipes. Canned pumpkin puree is convenient and has a long shelf life, making it a popular choice for commercial kitchens.
  • Fresh Pumpkin Puree - Fresh pumpkin puree is made from scratch using whole pumpkins. The pumpkins are roasted, peeled, and then blended until smooth. This type of puree has a more vibrant flavor compared to canned pumpkin puree. It also has a slightly higher water content, which can affect the texture of your dishes. Try making your own fresh pumpkin puree to showcase the natural flavor of pumpkin in your recipes.
  • Organic Pumpkin Puree - For those who prefer to use organic ingredients, organic pumpkin puree is available. It is made from organic pumpkins that are grown without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. Organic pumpkin puree offers the same taste and texture as regular pumpkin puree but with the added benefit of being produced sustainably.

How to Use Pumpkin Puree

Pumpkin is often associated with sweet fall treats like pumpkin pies or pumpkin spice lattes, but it works in savory dishes too. Try experimenting with pumpkin ravioli, pumpkin samosas, or creamy pumpkin soup. Canned pumpkin can also be used in place of eggs for binding in vegan baked goods like brownies, blondies, or cornbread. Try adding it to pancakes, overnight oats, or even smoothies.

What Is Pumpkin Pie Mix?

top view of a pumpkin pie on a white table with spices scattered around

Pumpkin pie mix is a pre-sweetened combination of pumpkin puree, spices, and thickeners. It's meant to be used right out of the can to help save time in the kitchen. The mix already contains all the ingredients you would normally add to pumpkin puree to make a delicious pumpkin pie. Because it's sweetened, it's not ideal for making savory pumpkin dishes.

How to Use Pumpkin Pie Mix

Canned pumpkin pie filling can help speed up production when you need to make pumpkin pies on a large scale. But you can also use it to add pumpkin pie flavor to other desserts, like pumpkin milkshakes, pumpkin cheesecake, or pumpkin cobbler.

Can You Substitute Pumpkin Puree for Pumpkin Pie Filling?

Yes, you can use pumpkin puree in place of pumpkin pie filling by adding some additional ingredients. You'll need to add sweetener, spices, and possibly a thickener (like eggs). However, you cannot use pumpkin pie filling in place of pure pumpkin unless you are making a pie or dessert that calls for the extra ingredients. In this case, using pie filling will save you time.

Canned Pumpkin FAQ

slice of pumpkin pie on a plate with pumpkins on a table

Still confused about canned pumpkin products? We answer some common questions about pumpkin puree and pie filling below.

Is Canned Pumpkin Cooked?

Yes, canned pumpkin is already cooked and is safe to eat out of the can (if you like the taste of pure, unsweetened pumpkin). We recommend adding it to a recipe first!

Can You Substitute Canned Pumpkin for Pumpkin Puree?

Yes, if a recipe calls for pumpkin puree, you can use the canned variety instead of fresh pumpkin puree. Just be mindful that homemade pumpkin puree contains more moisture than the canned variety.

Can I Use Pumpkin Pie Mix Instead of Pumpkin Puree?

You can only use pumpkin pie mix in place of pure pumpkin in some cases. If you are making a pumpkin pie, the canned filling can be used in place of the puree, sugar, spices, and thickeners. You would want to adjust the recipe for the extra ingredients in the filling. Just remember, stay away from the canned pie filling unless you want the dish to taste like pumpkin pie.

Is Pumpkin Puree the Same as Pure Pumpkin?

Yes, canned pumpkin can be labeled as 100% pure pumpkin or just as pumpkin puree. They are the same product.

Both canned pumpkin puree and pie filling are useful, shelf-stable ingredients that can help speed up your kitchen prep time. Just remember that puree is unsweetened, while pie filling contains sugar and spices. This will help you choose the right pumpkin product for your recipes.

By Michale LeRoy
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