Pumpkin Pie Leather Recipe

Today, we're going to make a treat! We're making pumpkin pie leather.

This pumpkin dessert recipe is perfect for the holiday season or just about any day. And best of all, it's Daniel Fast-approved, too!

Pumpkin Health Benefits

Pumpkin is a nutritious and versatile food that offers various health benefits. Here are some of the potential health benefits of consuming pumpkin:

1. Nutrient-Dense

Pumpkin is low in calories but rich in essential nutrients. It contains vitamins A, C, and E, as well as potassium, manganese, and other vitamins and minerals.

2. Supports Eye Health

The high levels of beta-carotene in pumpkin can be converted into vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining healthy eyesight. Adequate vitamin A intake is associated with a reduced risk of age-related macular degeneration.

3. Heart Health

The potassium content in pumpkin may contribute to heart health by helping to regulate blood pressure. A diet rich in potassium is associated with a lower risk of stroke and heart disease.

4. Promotes Healthy Skin

The beta-carotene in pumpkin not only benefits eye health but also contributes to healthy skin. It can protect the skin from UV damage and may help prevent signs of aging.

5. Anti-Inflammatory

Some compounds in pumpkin, such as beta-carotene and other antioxidants, have anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation is linked to various health conditions, and a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods may have protective effects.

Now, this pumpkin pie leather recipe uses 2 key ingredients -  pumpkin puree and applesauce. If you want to make your own, here are some steps.

How To Make Pumpkin Puree

Making pumpkin puree at home is a straightforward process, and it allows you to control the quality and flavor of the puree. Here's a simple recipe to make homemade pumpkin puree:

Ingredients:
1 medium-sized pumpkin (sugar pumpkins, also known as pie pumpkins, work well)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Pumpkin. Wash the pumpkin thoroughly. Then, cut the pumpkin in half. You can do this by cutting off the stem first, then slicing the pumpkin in half vertically.

3. Scoop out the seeds and strings from the pumpkin using a spoon or ice cream scoop. You can save the seeds for roasting if desired.

4. Place the pumpkin halves, cut side down, on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.

5. Roast in the preheated oven for about 45-60 minutes or until the pumpkin is fork-tender. The exact time will depend on the size and thickness of the pumpkin.

6. Allow the roasted pumpkin to cool for a bit until it's safe to handle. Scoop out the flesh from the pumpkin skin.

7. Place the pumpkin flesh in a food processor or blender. Blend until smooth. If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can use a potato masher or fork to mash the pumpkin instead.

If you find that your homemade puree is a bit watery, you can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove excess liquid.

8. Transfer the pumpkin puree to a container and store it in the refrigerator for immediate use, or freeze it in portions for later use. Homemade pumpkin puree can be stored in the refrigerator for about a week and in the freezer for several months

Now you have homemade pumpkin puree that you can use in various recipes, from pumpkin pie to soups and baked goods. Enjoy the fresh and flavorful taste of homemade pumpkin puree!

You can also watch my video to learn more about how it's done.

How To Make Applesauce

Making applesauce at home is a simple and rewarding process, and it allows you to control the ingredients and sweetness level. Here's a basic recipe for homemade applesauce:

Ingredients

6 to 8 apples (use a mix of sweet and tart varieties for depth of flavor)
1/2 cup water
1 to 2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional, to prevent browning)
Sugar or sweetener of choice (optional, depending on your preference)

Directions

1. Wash, peel, and core the apples. You can leave the peels on for added texture and nutrition if you prefer a chunkier sauce.

2. Cut the apples into evenly-sized chunks. This helps them cook more evenly.

3. Add water to the pot to help the apples cook and prevent sticking. If you're using lemon juice, add it at this stage.

4. Cover the pot and cook the apples over medium heat until they become soft and mushy. This usually takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on the size of your apple chunks.

5. Once the apples are soft, you can either mash them with a potato masher for a chunkier texture or use an immersion blender or regular blender for a smoother sauce. If using a blender, allow the apples to cool slightly before blending.

6. Taste the applesauce and decide if you want to add any sweetener. The sweetness of the apples can vary, so this step is entirely optional. You can add sugar, honey, maple syrup, or any sweetener of your choice, depending on your preference.

7. If the applesauce is too thick, you can add a little more water and mix until you achieve your desired consistency.

8. Allow the applesauce to cool before transferring it to a jar or airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for immediate use. Homemade applesauce can also be frozen for longer storage.

Homemade applesauce is versatile and can be enjoyed on its own, added to yogurt, used as a topping for pancakes or ice cream, or incorporated into various recipes. Adjust the sweetness and texture to suit your taste preferences.

Let's Make Pumpkin Pie Leather!

This is going to be the perfect treat for your family and they're going to enjoy it. 

Let me know what you think about the recipe after you make it down in the comments.

And until next time, thank you for letting me share with you God's recipe for excellent health.