We Tried 8: This is the Best Canned Pumpkin (2024)

FAQs

What is the best canned pumpkin test kitchen? ›

Libby's 100% Pure Pumpkin

In this taste test, our Test Kitchen pros found that the biggest name in the pumpkin game does, in fact, make the best canned pumpkin on the market. Libby's 100% Pure Pumpkin is a favorite among our culinary crew.

To help decrease your blood pressure, try eating pumpkin, which contains potassium that helps to control blood pressure. Potassium also helps with bone health and decreases your risk for diabetes. Around 10% of your daily potassium is found in just a half-cup serving of canned pumpkin.

The Trader Joe's canned pumpkin stood out for several reasons. It's texture was the thinnest, the color the lightest, and the flavor the sweetest and least squash-tasting.

Canned pumpkin (labeled as "100% pure pumpkin") is a purée of pumpkin that is sometimes mixed with other kinds of winter squash. It is unsweetened and does not contain any added spices. Canned pumpkin and pumpkin puree are the same thing, and you'll often see the terms used interchangeably in recipes and cookbooks.

Pumpkin is rich in fiber and contains prebiotics, which can help improve digestive system health and bowel movement. It may help relieve constipation and diarrhea in some people. However, if constipation or diarrhea persists, a person should consult a doctor.

For cooking, you'll want to use sugar pumpkins (also called pie or sweet pumpkins), which are small and round. Long Island Cheese pumpkins, which are more oblong and can look like a wheel of cheese, are also good to eat. Field pumpkin types are larger, have watery, stringy flesh, and are best for decorating.

Canned yams or sweet potatoes can also be used in place of canned pumpkin puree. It's a simple swap to make.

Best Pumpkins for Canning

Small sugar or pie pumpkins give better results than field (jack-o-lantern) pumpkins because they are sweeter and less stringy. Make sure your pumpkins are fully ripe and cured for the best flavor (read more about how to cure pumpkins here).

It is safe and healthy to eat pumpkin every day, but Campbell suggests sticking to only one serving per day—about half a cup of canned pumpkin and one cup of raw pumpkin – for a couple reasons. “Although pumpkins are great for you, they do contain a good amount of fiber,” says Menshulam.

Pumpkin is very healthy and considered safe for most. However, some people may experience allergies after eating pumpkin (32). It's also considered mildly diuretic, which means eating a lot of pumpkin may induce a “water pill”-like reaction, increasing the amount of water and salt your body expels through urine (33).

Is pumpkin good for high blood pressure? ›

Lowers blood pressure: A pumpkin's orange color is a sign that it's packed with potassium, which helps lower blood pressure, strengthen the bones, and reduce your risk of stroke and kidney stones.

The Department of Agriculture classifies it as a low-acid canned good, and advises that with proper storage on the shelf or in your pantry, pumpkin puree can last from two to five years.

Cook It on the Stove

Briefly cooking your canned pumpkin purée on the stove can help improve both the flavor and texture. This method helps reduce excess moisture, which gives the pumpkin a superior texture. It also releases the natural pumpkin flavor and helps reduce the metallic taste from the can.

When shopping for pumpkins, look for the ones usually generically labeled “sugar pumpkins” or “pie pumpkins.” Some specific names are Baby Pam, Autumn Gold, Ghost Rider, New England Pie Pumpkin, Lumina (which are white), Cinderella, and Fairy Tale.

Great Value

This option is from Walmart's store brand Great Value, and according to the can's label, it was the only canned pumpkin brand that's also a product of China.

Inspect the Can: Ensure there are no dents, rust, or swelling. Check the Quality: Upon opening, the color, smell, and texture should not have noticeably deteriorated. Observe Safety: If the appearance or odor is off, it's best to discard the product to avoid potential foodborne illness.

The Sugar Pie Pumpkin is often considered the crème de la crème of cooking pumpkins. Its deep orange flesh is sweet, smooth, and creamy, making it perfect for pies, soups, and purees. This culinary gem pairs beautifully with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, creating irresistible autumnal flavors.

Also, bear in mind that fresh pumpkin can create varying results depending on the pumpkin you choose; there can be different water and sugar content in every pumpkin, which can affect the flavor and texture. Canned pumpkin is made of steamed, pureed pumpkin or a blend of pumpkin and other squashes.