How Long Does Canned Pumpkin Last Once It's Opened?

If you've ever baked a batch of pumpkin muffins or whipped up a batch of pumpkin pancakes you know that canned pumpkin puree is a key ingredient in quite a few dishes. But oftentimes, the recipe only requires a cup or so, leaving you with extra puree at the bottom of the can. What's the right way of storing this stuff, and how long do you have before it goes bad?

Once the canned pumpkin puree has been opened, it will last about five to seven days in the fridge. To maintain the quality and freshness of your pumpkin puree, it's essential to transfer it from the can to a new container. Storing the pumpkin in its original can may lead to a reaction between the metal, food, and oxygen, potentially affecting its taste. For optimal freshness, store the leftover pumpkin puree in an airtight container. This method will help it stay fresh for approximately one week in the refrigerator. 

To prolong the shelf life of opened canned pumpkin even further, consider freezing it. Simply transfer the pumpkin into airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, ensuring they are well-sealed (double-bagging doesn't hurt, either). Be sure to mark the date it went into the fridge somewhere on the container. When stored correctly, the pumpkin will retain its best quality for about three months.

You can use all that leftover canned pumpkin in a variety of different dishes, from savory to sweet. For a hearty dinner, replace canned tomatoes with pumpkin puree for a rich and earthy pumpkin chili (pumpkin is just one of the many unusual ingredients you can add to your favorite chili recipe). Simmer pumpkin puree with onions, garlic, cumin, and cayenne pepper, then blend until smooth for a satisfying squash soup complete with its best toppings. Stir pumpkin puree into Arborio rice cooked with chicken stock and Parmesan for a creamy risotto dish with autumnal flair — no matter the time of year. Add pumpkin puree to your favorite lasagna sauce for extra depth. Use pumpkin puree as a base sauce on pizza crust, the top it off with goat cheese and fresh herbs.

For a sweet twist, consider adding pumpkin puree to your muffin or bread recipes to bring further moisture and flavor to the baked good. You can also mix it into your waffle and pancake batter for fluffy, flavorful breakfast treats. Or for a nutritious boost, blend pumpkin puree into your vegetable-based smoothies. It's also a fantastic addition to your morning oatmeal, providing extra creaminess and depth of flavor that few other ingredients can bring. To create a festive topping, whip heavy cream with pumpkin puree and spices for a delicious finish to your seasonal desserts.