Last Updated on October 4, 2022 by Lauren Beck
Once you’ve opened a can of pumpkin, you might be wondering how long the contents will last. Here’s what you need to know about how long canned pumpkin lasts after being opened.
Pumpkin puree is typically made from fresh pumpkins that have been cooked and then pureed. Canned pumpkin is a convenient option for those who don’t want to go through the trouble of cooking and pureeing fresh pumpkins.
Once a can of pumpkin has been opened, it should be refrigerated and used within five days. If you don’t think you’ll be able to use up the entire can within that time frame, you can freeze the leftover pumpkin. Frozen pumpkin will be good for up to three months.
How Long Does Opened Canned Pumpkin Last in the Refrigerator?
Pumpkin puree will last for five days in the refrigerator after being opened. Be sure to keep the pumpkin puree in a covered container so that it doesn’t dry out. You can also place a piece of plastic wrap directly on top of the pumpkin puree before putting the lid on the container.
If you’re not planning on using all the pumpkin puree within five days, you can freeze the leftovers.
Is Canned Pumpkin Safe to Use After the “Expiration” Date on the Package?
The expiration date on canned pumpkin is the date by which the product should be used for best quality. Canned pumpkin can be safely used after the expiration date has passed.
The “best by” or “use by” date on a can of pumpkin is the manufacturer’s estimate of how long the product will retain its peak quality. Canned pumpkin is safe to eat after the “best by” or “use by” date has passed, but may not be as flavorful or have the same texture.
Can You Freeze Canned Pumpkin Puree?
Yes, you can freeze canned pumpkin puree. Be sure to place the pumpkin puree in a freezer-safe container. Frozen pumpkin puree will retain its best quality for three months.
How Long Does Canned Pumpkin Last in the Freezer?
Canned pumpkin will last for three months in the freezer. Be sure to place the canned pumpkin in a freezer-safe container.
When thawing frozen pumpkin, be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator and not at room temperature. Room temperature thawed pumpkin may spoil more quickly.
Does Canned Pumpkin Go Bad?
Canned pumpkin can go bad, but it takes quite a while. If canned pumpkin is stored properly, it can last for two to three years.
How Can You Tell if Opened Canned Pumpkin Is Bad or Spoiled?
Here are some signs that opened canned pumpkin has gone bad and how to tell if canned pumpkin is spoiled.
- The pumpkin puree has a sour smell.
- The pumpkin puree has a moldy appearance.
- The pumpkin puree is discolored.
- The pumpkin puree has changed texture and is no longer smooth.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to throw out the pumpkin puree.
How to Keep the Canned Pumpkin for a Longer Time?
You can extend the shelf life of canned pumpkin by storing it in a cool, dark place. Canned pumpkin that is stored in a pantry or cupboard that is exposed to light will not last as long as canned pumpkin that is stored in a dark place.
How to Thaw Pumpkin Puree?
If you have frozen pumpkin puree, it’s best to thaw it in the refrigerator. Place the container of pumpkin puree in the refrigerator and allow it to thaw overnight. Once thawed, be sure to use the pumpkin puree within five days.
You can also thaw frozen pumpkin puree by placing the container of pumpkin puree in a bowl of cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes until the pumpkin puree is thawed. Once thawed, be sure to use the pumpkin puree within five days.
What to Do With Leftover Pumpkin Puree?
Here are some ideas for what to do with leftover pumpkin puree [1]:
- Add pumpkin puree to smoothies.
- Stir pumpkin puree into oatmeal or yogurt.
- Use pumpkin puree in place of mashed potatoes.
- Make a batch of pumpkin pancakes or waffles.
- Stir pumpkin puree into soups or stews.
- Make a batch of pumpkin muffins or quick bread.
- Use pumpkin puree to make homemade pasta sauce.
- Add pumpkin puree to your favorite cookie or cake recipe.
- Make a batch of pumpkin ice cream.
- Use pumpkin puree to make homemade baby food.
Conclusion
Canned pumpkin has a long shelf life, but it will eventually go bad. Be sure to store canned pumpkin in a cool, dark place. Once opened, you can store pumpkin puree in the refrigerator for five days or in the freezer for three months. If you have leftover pumpkin puree, there are many ways to use it up. Add pumpkin puree to smoothies, oatmeal, yogurt, or soups. You can also use it in place of mashed potatoes, or add it to your favorite cookie or cake recipe. Pumpkin puree is also a great way to make homemade baby food.
Reference:
- https://www.thekitchn.com/10-smart-ways-to-use-leftover-canned-pumpkin-puree-tips-from-the-kitchn-210559
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