How To Can Pumpkin Pie Filling?
Canning pumpkin pie filling is a wonderful way to preserve the flavors of fall and enjoy homemade pumpkin pie throughout the year.
Whether you’re a seasoned canner or a complete novice, this guide will provide you with simple, step-by-step instructions to help you successfully can your own pumpkin pie filling.
Canning Pumpkin Pie Filling: A Step-by-Step Guide
Lets go over the process of safely canning pumpkin pie filling, ensuring that you can enjoy the flavors of fall long after the leaves have fallen.
1. Preparing Your Ingredients
Before we begin the canning process, it’s essential to gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients
Pumpkin Puree: You can use canned pumpkin puree or make your own by cooking and pureeing fresh pumpkin.
Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness to the filling.
Spices: A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger will give your pumpkin pie filling that classic autumn flavor.
Salt: Just a pinch enhances the overall taste.
Lemon Juice: This helps to balance the sweetness and acidity.
ClearJel: A modified cornstarch used specifically for canning pie fillings. It provides thickening without breaking down during the canning process.
Water: For creating the syrup to mix with the ingredients.
Equipment
Canning Jars: Choose jars that are specifically designed for canning and ensure they are clean and free of cracks.
Canning Lids and Bands: Use new lids to ensure a proper seal, and bands that are free from rust or dents.
Water Bath Canner: A large pot with a rack to hold the jars during processing.
Canning Tools: Including a jar lifter, canning funnel, and bubble remover/headspace tool for safe and efficient canning.
Mixing Bowls, Spoons, and Measuring Cups: For preparing and mixing ingredients.
2. Preparing the Pumpkin Pie Filling
Once you’ve gathered your ingredients and equipment, it’s time to move on to the next steps in the canning process.
Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, sugar, spices, salt, and lemon juice. Stir until the ingredients are well incorporated.
Prepare ClearJel
In a separate bowl, dissolve the ClearJel in water according to the package instructions. ClearJel should be mixed with cold or room temperature water before adding it to the filling mixture.
Add ClearJel Mixture
Once the ClearJel is fully dissolved, add it to the pumpkin mixture. Stir well to ensure that the ClearJel is evenly distributed throughout the filling.
Cook the Filling
Transfer the pumpkin mixture to a large saucepan or pot. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the filling begins to thicken. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
Simmer
Once the filling has thickened, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
Remove from Heat
After simmering, remove the filling from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. The filling should be thick but still pourable.
Fill Jars
Using a canning funnel, ladle the hot pumpkin pie filling into prepared canning jars, leaving about 1 inch of headspace at the top of each jar. Use a bubble remover or spatula to remove any air bubbles from the jars.
Wipe Jar Rims
Before placing the lids on the jars, wipe the rims clean with a damp cloth to ensure a proper seal.
3. Processing and Sealing Your Jars
Now that your pumpkin pie filling is prepared and safely packed into jars, it’s time to move on to the final steps of the canning process.
Prepare the Water Bath Canner
Fill your water bath canner with enough water to cover the jars by at least 1-2 inches. Place the canner on the stove and begin heating the water over medium-high heat.
Heat Jars
While the water bath canner is heating, place your filled jars in the canner rack, ensuring they are spaced apart and not touching each other. Lower the rack into the canner once the water is hot but not boiling.
Bring to a Boil
Once all the jars are in the canner and submerged in water, bring the water to a gentle boil. Ensure that the water continues to boil steadily throughout the processing time.
Process Jars
Process the jars of pumpkin pie filling in the boiling water bath for the recommended time according to your altitude and the size of your jars.
This processing time typically ranges from 25 to 45 minutes. Consult a reliable canning resource or the instructions provided with your ClearJel for specific processing times.
Monitor Processing Time
Keep a close eye on the processing time, adjusting the heat as needed to maintain a steady boil.
It’s crucial to process the jars for the recommended time to ensure that harmful bacteria are eliminated, and a safe seal is achieved.
Remove Jars
Once the processing time is complete, turn off the heat and carefully remove the jars from the water bath using a jar lifter. Place them on a clean towel or cooling rack, leaving space between each jar to cool completely.
Listen for Sealing Sounds
As the jars cool, you may hear a satisfying “ping” sound, indicating that the lids are sealing properly. This is a reassuring sign that your pumpkin pie filling is safely preserved.
Check Seals
After the jars have cooled completely, check the seals by pressing down on the center of each lid. If the lid is firm and does not flex, it has sealed correctly. Any jars with unsealed lids should be refrigerated and used promptly.
4. Storing and Using Your Canned Pumpkin Pie Filling
With your jars of pumpkin pie filling safely processed and sealed, they are now ready to be stored in a cool, dark place until you’re ready to enjoy them.
Label and Date Jars
Before storing your canned pumpkin pie filling, be sure to label each jar with the contents and date of canning. This will help you keep track of freshness and rotation in your pantry.
Storage
Store your canned pumpkin pie filling in a cool, dark place such as a pantry or cupboard. Properly sealed jars can last for up to one year, although for the best quality, it’s recommended to use them within 6-8 months.
Refrigeration
Once opened, any leftover pumpkin pie filling should be stored in the refrigerator and used within 3-4 days. Be sure to transfer it to an airtight container for optimal freshness.
Usage
Canned pumpkin pie filling is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes beyond just pies. Try incorporating it into muffins, pancakes, oatmeal, or even smoothies for a delicious autumn-inspired twist.
Pie Making
When you’re ready to indulge in a slice of homemade pumpkin pie, simply spoon the canned filling into a pre-baked pie crust and bake according to your favorite pumpkin pie recipe. It’s that easy!
Creative Cooking
Don’t limit yourself to traditional pumpkin pie—get creative! Use your canned pumpkin pie filling to make pumpkin cheesecake, pumpkin bread, or even pumpkin soup. The possibilities are endless!
Share the Love
Canned pumpkin pie filling also makes a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family during the holiday season. Package it up with a festive ribbon and a handwritten recipe card for an extra special touch.
Final Words
With these storage and usage tips, you’ll be able to enjoy the delicious flavors of pumpkin pie throughout the year.
Now that you’ve mastered the art of canning pumpkin pie filling, why not explore other seasonal fruits and vegetables to preserve? Happy canning!
