How to Make Creamy Pumpkin Soup

Aromatics Foundation

Develop deep flavor base through properly sautéed onions and garlic.

Spice Blooming

Release essential oils in smoked paprika and spices by briefly heating in oil.

Thorough Puréeing

Achieve silky-smooth texture through complete and proper blending technique.

Cream Integration

Incorporate cream with proper temperature control to prevent curdling and ensure velvety finish.

Baking Tips

For the best flavor, roast fresh pumpkin instead of using canned. Cut a small sugar pumpkin in half, remove seeds, roast at 400°F until tender (about 45 minutes), then scoop out the flesh.

The soup will thicken as it cools. If it becomes too thick, thin with additional broth or water when reheating.

For a dairy-free version, substitute coconut milk for the heavy cream.

Try different types of smoked paprika—Spanish 'pimentón' comes in sweet, bittersweet, and hot varieties, each offering a different dimension to the soup.

Make this soup up to 3 days ahead and store in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve with time.

Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop.

For an elegant presentation at dinner parties, serve in small hollowed-out pumpkins.

Creamy Pumpkin Soup

Name: Creamy Pumpkin Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American, Fall Favorites
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups pumpkin purée (fresh or canned); 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tsp smoked paprika, plus more for garnish; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp ground coriander; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 2 tbsp maple syrup; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; For garnish:; 1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds; Swirl of cream or crème fraîche; Fresh thyme leaves; Dash of smoked paprika

This velvety Creamy Pumpkin Soup features the natural sweetness of roasted pumpkin beautifully complemented by aromatic smoked paprika. The soup begins with slowly sautéed onions and garlic, creating a flavorful foundation for the star ingredient. After simmering with warm spices and vegetable stock, the mixture is puréed to silky perfection and finished with a touch of cream. The smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness that elevates this simple soup into something truly memorable, perfect for autumn gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.

Prep Time

20 Minutes

Cook Time

40 Minutes

Total Time

Chef

JUE

Ingredients

Custard Cream

2 tbsp olive oil

1 large onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

4 cups pumpkin purée (fresh or canned)

4 cups vegetable broth

1 cup heavy cream

2 tsp smoked paprika, plus more for garnish

1 tsp ground cumin

1/2 tsp ground coriander

1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

2 tbsp maple syrup

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For garnish:

1/4 cup toasted pumpkin seeds

Swirl of cream or crème fraîche

Fresh thyme leaves

Dash of smoked paprika

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat.

Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Stir in the smoked paprika, cumin, coriander, and nutmeg. Cook for 30 seconds to bloom the spices.

Add the pumpkin purée and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Using an immersion blender, purée the soup until completely smooth. Alternatively, transfer in batches to a regular blender, being careful with the hot liquid.

Return the soup to the pot if using a regular blender. Stir in the heavy cream and maple syrup.

Heat through over low heat, being careful not to boil.

Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a swirl of cream, toasted pumpkin seeds, fresh thyme leaves, and a light sprinkle of smoked paprika.

Serve hot with crusty bread or a simple green salad.

Creamy Pumpkin Soup

JUE

Essential Ingredients Selection

Creating Your Masterpiece

How to Make Creamy Pumpkin Soup

Creamy Pumpkin Soup

Ingredients

Instructions