Description
Ingredients:
– 1 cup pumpkin puree
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– Pinch of salt
Directions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine pumpkin puree, water, and granulated sugar.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Add vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and a pinch of salt.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer the mixture for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
5. Remove from heat and strain the syrup through a fine mesh sieve to remove solids.
6. Let the syrup cool to room temperature, then transfer to a clean jar or bottle and refrigerate.
7. Use the pumpkin syrup to sweeten coffee, drizzle over pancakes, or add to desserts.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 120 kcal per 2 tablespoons | Servings: 8 servings
Tips:
Store syrup in the refrigerator for up to two weeks in an airtight container.
Adjust the spices to your preference, adding more cinnamon or nutmeg for a stronger flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect homemade pumpkin syrup every time.
- Combine Base Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, thoroughly mix the pumpkin puree, water, and granulated sugar.
- Dissolve Sugar: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and a pinch of salt. Ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
- Simmer to Thicken: Reduce the heat to low. Let the mixture simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring every few minutes to prevent sticking, until it thickens slightly.
- Strain the Syrup: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Pour the syrup through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl or jug to remove any solid pumpkin pieces, pressing gently with a spoon.
- Cool and Store: Allow the strained syrup to cool completely at room temperature. Then, pour it into a sterilized glass jar or bottle with a tight-fitting lid and refrigerate.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile syrup can elevate many dishes and drinks. Use it to sweeten and flavor your morning coffee, latte, or chai tea. Drizzle it generously over pancakes, waffles, or French toast. It’s also fantastic stirred into oatmeal or yogurt, swirled into milkshakes, or used as a glaze for cakes and donuts. For a festive cocktail, add a splash to bourbon or vodka.
How-to Summary
To make pumpkin spice syrup, combine pumpkin, water, and sugar in a pan. Heat to dissolve the sugar, then add vanilla and spices. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until slightly thickened, strain to remove solids, cool, and refrigerate in a sealed container.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of puree?
Yes, but it requires extra work. Roast and puree sugar pumpkin flesh until very smooth. Canned puree is recommended for consistency and convenience.
How long does the syrup last in the fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, the syrup will keep well for up to two weeks. Always check for any off smells or mold before use.
Can I make a sugar-free version?
Absolutely. Replace the granulated sugar with an equal amount of a sugar-free sweetener like erythritol or a monk fruit blend that is designed to substitute 1:1 for sugar in cooking.
Why do I need to strain the syrup?
Straining ensures a smooth, silky texture by removing any fibrous bits from the pumpkin puree, resulting in a professional-quality syrup.
My syrup is too thick. How can I fix it?
Simply thin it out by whisking in a small amount of warm water or additional simple syrup until it reaches your desired consistency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the Strain: Not straining will leave you with a gritty texture.
- Rushing the Simmer: Cooking over too high heat or for too short a time can prevent proper thickening and flavor melding.
- Using Pumpkin Pie Filling: Do not accidentally use sweetened “pumpkin pie filling,” which contains added sugars and spices, instead of plain pumpkin puree.
- Improper Storage: Failing to use a clean, airtight container will shorten the syrup’s shelf life significantly.
Conclusion
Homemade pumpkin spice syrup is an easy and rewarding way to capture the essence of fall in a bottle. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a versatile flavor enhancer far superior to store-bought versions. By following this guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you’ll have a delicious syrup ready to sweeten your coffees, breakfasts, and desserts all season long. Enjoy the rich, autumnal flavors of your custom creation.