Difference Between Pumpkin Puree And Pumpkin Pie Mix
As the fall season approaches, pumpkin is the flavor of the season. From pumpkin spice lattes to pumpkin pie, pumpkin is everywhere. However, when it comes to baking with pumpkin, there are two common ingredients: pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie mix. While they may sound similar, they are actually different. In this article, we will discuss the difference between pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie mix.
What is Pumpkin Puree?
Pumpkin puree is made from cooked and mashed pumpkin. It is a smooth and creamy texture and has a natural sweet and earthy taste. Pumpkin puree can be made at home by roasting or boiling pumpkin and then blending it until it is smooth. However, most people prefer to buy canned pumpkin puree from the store as it is convenient and readily available.
What is Pumpkin Pie Mix?
Pumpkin pie mix is a pre-made mixture of pumpkin puree and spices. It usually contains cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. Some brands also include sugar and salt. Pumpkin pie mix is primarily used for making pumpkin pie filling. It has a sweeter taste than pumpkin puree and a thicker consistency.
Differences Between Pumpkin Puree and Pumpkin Pie Mix
While pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie mix may seem similar, they have some significant differences:
- Ingredients: Pumpkin puree is made of only pumpkin, while pumpkin pie mix contains pumpkin, spices, and sometimes sugar and salt.
- Taste: Pumpkin puree has a natural sweet and earthy taste, while pumpkin pie mix is sweeter and spicier.
- Texture: Pumpkin puree is smooth and creamy, while pumpkin pie mix is thicker and more viscous.
- Recipes: Pumpkin puree can be used in a variety of recipes, while pumpkin pie mix is primarily used for making pumpkin pie filling.
When to Use Pumpkin Puree
Pumpkin puree is a versatile ingredient and can be used in a variety of recipes. It can be used in both sweet and savory dishes. Some popular recipes that use pumpkin puree are pumpkin bread, pumpkin soup, pumpkin pancakes, and pumpkin muffins.
When to Use Pumpkin Pie Mix
Pumpkin pie mix is primarily used for making pumpkin pie filling. However, it can also be used in other recipes that call for pumpkin puree and spices. Some examples are pumpkin spice latte, pumpkin cheesecake, and pumpkin bars.
Conclusion
While pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie mix may seem similar, they have distinct differences. Pumpkin puree is made of only pumpkin and has a natural sweet and earthy taste, while pumpkin pie mix contains pumpkin, spices, and sometimes sugar and salt. Pumpkin puree is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes, while pumpkin pie mix is primarily used for making pumpkin pie filling. Now that you know the difference, you can choose the right ingredient for your recipe.
