Did you holiday baking got bigger than you expected, and you have some leftover pumpkin puree? Do not worry! You can freeze pumpkin puree to avoid food waste and enjoy this delicious recipe later.
Pumpkin puree is a popular recipe and present at the table of many families during the holidays. Pumpkins are highly nutritious rich in fibers, vitamins A and C, potassium and incredibly low on calories. Which makes it even better to be consumed.
So, either you want to plan ahead. Let the pumpkin puree ready to be use. Need to save some precious time. Prepared too much or want to avoid wasting it so it can be consumed later. Freezing is a good solution. In this article, we will teach you how to freeze pumpkin puree. Which methods are the best ones to increase its shelf-life and duration.
How to freeze pumpkin puree
Pumpkin puree freezes very well, and it is very easy and simple. Below we will mention some of the best ways to do it.
Just make sure that you are freezing the pumpkin puree within 7 days after it was done. You can store it in your refrigerator, but it will last for around a week. So, if you will not consume it in a week, freezing is the best solution.
Frozen pumpkin puree will last for several months. But always keep an eye on it to see if it is all good. If you notice any changes on the color and texture do not consume it.
It is also important to write down the dates you made when freezing the pumpkin puree to keep track of the time.
How to freeze pumpkin puree in an ice cube tray
Fill up an ice cube tray with the pumpkin puree.
Place it in the freezer for around 4 hours or until it is solid frozen.
Later, remove the frozen pumpkin puree from the ice cube tray. Place it in a freezing plastic bad or any airtight compartment of your preference and store in the freezer.
This is a great solution if you want to use smaller portions of the pumpkin puree later. This way, you avoid defrosting everything just to use a small portion of it. Also, there are great pumpkin smoothies’ recipes that can be done with this delicious ice cubes.
How to freeze pumpkin puree in a muffin tray
This method, is similar to the ice cube tray one. But this way you can separate it in larger portions to be consumed later.
Fill the muffin tray with the pumpkin puree, place it in the freezer until it freezes completely. Then, remove the pumpkin puree from the tray. Add it in freezing plastic bags or airtight compartments and store it in the freezer.
How to freeze pumpkin puree in zip-top bags
Freezing and storing the pumpkin puree in zip-top bags is a good solution for those that will use the puree later for pumpkin bread and pumpkin pie.
You can use the zip-top bags in the size of your preference. Add the pumpkin puree in it and store it in the freezer. Keeping the bags flat in the freezer you save a lot of space. This is also a great method for those without much space in their freezers.
Careful not to let the frozen pumpkin puree absorbs the flavor or smells of other ingredients. That are stored in your freezer. Depending on what you place next to it. The flavor and smell will change and it will only be noticeable after you defrost it.
How do defrost pumpkin puree
The defrosting process is as easy as freezing it in the first place. It only depends on what you are using the pumpkin puree for.
The best method is to let the portion of the pumpkin puree you will need sitting overnight on the fridge. This way, it will defrost completely, and you can use anytime you want.
It is also possible to let the pumpkin puree portion defrost at room temperature for a few hours. But be careful not to let it out for too long. Defrosting in room temperature will require you to use the pumpkin puree right after it is defrosted.
If you are using the pumpkin puree in a recipe that goes to the oven. You can take straight out of the freezer and add it on the recipe. You will need to increase the oven time in a few more minutes.
Homemade pumpkin puree tends to be waterier and will get even more after being frozen and defrosted. So it is important to adjust the other liquids in your recipe to make it all work together.
Conclusion
Pumpkin puree is popular, delicious, and nutritious. It can be found in the table of many families during the holidays and you cannot go wrong with it.
Freshly made pumpkin puree will last in the fridge for around a week. Depending on the temperature it will last from 5 to 7 days. If you will consume it in this period. Then the fridge will be the best place for you to store it.
But, if you have too many leftovers or is already planning a few weeks or months ahead. The freezer is the solution for you. Frozen pumpkin puree will last around 6 months and after defrosted will taste just like the freshly made one.
