Can You Freeze Pumpkin Puree & Raw Pumpkins?

Lucky for our pies and palates, not every pumpkin is destined to become a jack-o'-lantern! If you're a pumpkin spice aficionado and pumpkin pie enthusiast, this seasonal superstar is a must-have in your kitchen. But why not enjoy the delight of pumpkin recipes all year round?

By vacuum sealing, you can enjoy pumpkin in your ingredients even after the season has passed. But can you freeze pumpkin puree and raw pumpkin for the long term?

In this blog, we'll walk you through how to freeze pumpkin puree and how to freeze raw pumpkin to whip up during a cozy evening or a spring day. So embrace the pumpkin-flavored bliss and prepare to learn how to store pumpkins like a true home chef.

• Storing broccoli or other cruciferous vegetables? Learn how to freeze broccoli and similar vegetables.
• Preserving more fall ingredients like corn on the cob? Learn how to freeze corn on the cob long-term.

Can You Freeze Pumpkin That's Raw?

For those who like to keep their veggies as close to fresh-picked as possible, sealing raw may be best. Luckily, this is easy to do with pumpkin as you don't have to blanch it like other cruciferous veggies and herbs.

Cut open the pumpkin just like you would a jack-o'-lantern and scoop out all of the stringy innards and seeds. These can be discarded.

Then peel the pumpkin, leaving just the flavorful flesh behind. Cut the flesh into smaller chunks for easy vacuum sealing.

After you've locked in the pumpkin's freshness in a FoodSaver® bag or roll, put it in the freezer for later.

This is the best way to preserve the taste and texture of that fall produce while protecting it from the elements and freezer burn.

• Shop FoodSaver® Food Vacuum Sealers
• Shop FoodSaver Vacuum Seal Bags & Rolls

Can You Freeze Pumpkin Puree?

However, if you already know this pumpkin will be used for pie, you might want to take a different approach to make the prep easier down the line. Baking, pureeing, and vacuum sealing will give you a savory mash to thaw and cook anytime you need.

Pumpkin puree is easy to vacuum seal and perfect for making pumpkin pie months later.

Here's how to freeze pumpkin puree so you can prepare it for vacuum sealing:

• Heat your oven to 300 degrees.
• Wash your pumpkin thoroughly and leave it whole without cutting it.
• Put the whole pumpkin into the oven on a pan and bake for approximately 2 1/2 hours or until the flesh on the outside is tender.
• Take the pumpkin out of the oven and let it cool until it's warm but not hot.
• Once at a warm temperature, cut off the top of the pumpkin and take out the innards and seeds.
• If you notice a fair amount of pumpkin juice inside the pumpkin or on the pan, set aside the liquid for later.
• Cut the pumpkin into small portions that can fit into a blender. While cutting into portions, remove the pieces from the peel.
• Put the pumpkin flesh into a blender and puree. Add the excess pumpkin juice if you would like a puree with more moisture. You may have to do this several times depending on the size of the pumpkin.
• Scrape the puree from the blender into a FoodSaver® bag or roll.
• Vacuum seal the bag or roll and place the puree in the freezer for long-term storage. Voila!

You now have a tasty pumpkin puree to bake and cook with whenever you get a craving for fall food.

Tips for Freezing Pumpkin Successfully

Do's

• Do label your containers with the date and portion size.
• Do use freezer-safe bags or containers to prevent freezer burn.
• Do portion your pumpkin to make thawing easier.

Don'ts

• Don't freeze pumpkin in bulk without portioning as it makes thawing difficult.
• Don't skip the blanching step when freezing raw pumpkin.
• Don't leave air in the freezer bags; it can cause freezer burn.

Make the Most of Fall Meals by Freezing Pumpkins

Freezing pumpkin—whether it's puree, raw pumpkin, or canned pumpkin—is a fantastic way to preserve this versatile ingredient throughout the year. So next time you have leftovers, there's no need to ask yourself, "Can you freeze pumpkin puree or raw pumpkin?" Properly stored frozen pumpkin can last for several months, allowing you to save time when preparing your favorite dishes. With our techniques, you can enjoy pumpkin’s delightful flavor long after the autumn season has passed.

For more detailed guides and expert tips on food preservation, visit the FoodSaver Blog to start storing food like a preservation pro.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does Pumpkin Last in the Fridge?

Fresh pumpkin lasts just days in the refrigerator without proper vacuum sealing. So if you can’t use it within a short time frame, freezing the pumpkin is the best method. For this reason, freezing pumpkin puree and raw pumpkin is a great way to preserve it for later use.

Can You Freeze Pumpkin Pie Filling?

Yes, you can freeze pumpkin pie filling. This is especially useful during the holiday season when you might make more filling than necessary. Just like pumpkin puree, portion it out, package it correctly, and freeze it.

Can I Use Frozen Pumpkin in Recipes That Call for Fresh Pumpkin?

Yes, you can substitute frozen pumpkin for fresh pumpkin in most recipes, including pies and soups. Just ensure it’s thawed and properly drained if needed.