Name: Pumpkin Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2½ pounds leeks, white and light green parts only, washed well and thinly sliced (about 6 cups); 4 cloves garlic, roughly chopped; 1 15-oz can pumpkin purée; 1 apple, peeled, cored, and roughly chopped; 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 5 tablespoons maple syrup; 1½ teaspoons salt; ½ teaspoon ground cumin; ⅛ to ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, to taste; 1½ teaspoons chopped fresh thyme, plus more for garnish; 1½ teaspoons chopped fresh sage; ¼ cup heavy cream, plus more for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.9 from 18 reviews

If you are craving something cozy, comforting, and packed with autumnal flavors, this Pumpkin Soup is exactly what your kitchen needs. Rich and velvety, this soup combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin and apple with the earthiness of fresh herbs and a gentle touch of warming spices. Every spoonful feels like a hug from the inside, perfectly balancing creamy texture with a delightful depth of flavor. Whether you want to impress your family or just treat yourself to a soul-soothing meal, this Pumpkin Soup is a must-try that brings warmth and happiness to any day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple yet essential to building the layers of flavor and creamy texture in the Pumpkin Soup. Each one plays a special role, from the soft sweetness of leeks and apple to the fragrant herbs that bring freshness and complexity.

Unsalted butter: Adds richness and a smooth base for sautéing the leeks and garlic without overpowering other flavors.
Leeks: Their mild onion flavor gently sweetens and deepens the soup’s profile when cooked slowly.
Garlic cloves: Provide a subtle, aromatic kick that brightens the overall taste.
Pumpkin purée: The star ingredient, delivering that vibrant color and creamy body.
Apple: A surprising twist that adds natural sweetness and a slight tang for balance.
Low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the soup flavorful but not salty, letting each ingredient shine.
Maple syrup: Enhances the autumnal sweetness with a touch of complex sugary notes.
Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of all components.
Ground cumin: Offers a warm, earthy undertone that pairs harmoniously with pumpkin.
Cayenne pepper: Adds a gentle heat that awakens the palate without overwhelming it.
Fresh thyme and sage: Herbaceous notes that invoke cozy fall vibes and elevate the soup’s aroma.
Heavy cream: Provides luscious smoothness and a silky finish to the soup.

How to Make Pumpkin Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by melting the unsalted butter in a medium soup pot over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced leeks and roughly chopped garlic, stirring occasionally. Cook them gently until they soften and become fragrant, which should take about 10 minutes. This step forms the flavorful foundation of your Pumpkin Soup and ensures the raw edges are mellowed into sweet goodness.

Step 2: Combine the Key Ingredients

Next, stir in the pumpkin purée and chopped apple, followed by pouring in the low-sodium chicken broth. Season the mixture with maple syrup, salt, ground cumin, cayenne pepper for a touch of heat, and the freshly chopped thyme and sage. Bring it all to a boil, then reduce the heat and let your soup simmer uncovered for 20 minutes. This slow bubbling melds all those wonderful flavors together, creating a well-rounded taste that sings with autumn charm.

Step 3: Purée to Perfection

When your Pumpkin Soup has finished simmering, stir in the heavy cream to enrich the texture. Use a stick blender directly in the pot to purée the soup until it’s completely smooth and silky. If you prefer, you can transfer the soup to a blender in batches—just be sure to remove the blender’s center knob and cover the opening with a kitchen towel to avoid splashes. This creamy step makes the soup wonderfully velvety and ready to impress.

Step 4: Serve and Garnish

Ladle the finished soup into bowls and add a pretty swirl of extra cream on top along with fresh thyme leaves if you like. This final touch adds both visual appeal and an inviting richness that will make every spoonful memorable.

How to Serve Pumpkin Soup

Garnishes

Garnishes can take Pumpkin Soup from simple to sensational. Fresh thyme leaves sprinkled on top add an herbal brightness, and a swirl of heavy cream or even a spoonful of crème fraîche makes the soup feel indulgent. For an extra crunch, toasted pumpkin seeds or a drizzle of chili oil can offer a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

This Pumpkin Soup pairs beautifully with rustic bread like a warm baguette or crusty sourdough for dipping. Light salads with tart vinaigrette balance the creaminess, and savory roasted vegetables or a grilled cheese sandwich make for a satisfying accompaniment that rounds out the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving Pumpkin Soup in mini pumpkins hollowed out as edible bowls for a fun presentation at parties or holiday dinners. Alternatively, drizzle herb oil or toasted nuts on top for an Instagram-worthy look. You can even layer it as a starter in glass jars for a rustic yet elegant touch that guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pumpkin Soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it covered in an airtight container to preserve the flavors and prevent it from absorbing other odors. Gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy again.

Freezing

You can freeze Pumpkin Soup for up to 3 months. For best results, cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top as the soup will expand when frozen. When thawing, place it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat slowly to maintain the creaminess.

Reheating

Reheat your Pumpkin Soup gently over low to medium heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much. Avoid boiling as it can cause the cream to separate and textures to change. Warm it just until steaming hot and enjoy it as if freshly made.

FAQs

Can I make Pumpkin Soup vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and use olive oil or vegan butter instead of unsalted butter. Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a nut-based cream alternative for a deliciously creamy vegan version.

Is canned pumpkin the best choice for this soup?

Canned pumpkin purée is a convenient and consistent choice, offering smooth texture and deep flavor. However, you can roast and purée fresh pumpkin if you prefer, just be sure to cook it until soft for the best consistency.

How spicy is the cayenne pepper in the recipe?

The cayenne pepper is optional and used sparingly. It adds a gentle heat that brings warmth without overpowering the other flavors. You can adjust the amount to suit your heat preference or leave it out entirely for a milder soup.

Can I prepare Pumpkin Soup in advance for a party?

Yes! Pumpkin Soup is a fantastic make-ahead dish. Prepare it up to two days in advance and store it refrigerated. Reheat gently just before serving, and add fresh garnishes to give it that fresh-from-the-kitchen vibe.

What toppings can I add to boost texture?

To add some crunch, try toasted pumpkin seeds, or even fried sage leaves. A sprinkle of nutmeg or a drizzle of extra maple syrup can also enhance the flavors in different ways.

Final Thoughts

This Pumpkin Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of cozy flavors and wholesome ingredients that feel like a warm embrace in a bowl. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal yet elegant for gatherings, making it a versatile favorite. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and savor each comforting spoonful of Pumpkin Soup yourself.