Pumpkin Yogurt Recipe

ByBob Jones

I adore the combination of creamy textures and autumn flavors, which is why I love my recipe for Pumpkin Yogurt. The base of this dish is one cup of plain Greek yogurt.

I fold in a generous half cup of pumpkin puree, and the resulting texture is rich and velvety. The labneh-style yogurt I make is quite thick (though store-bought yogurt works well, too), so my Pumpkin Yogurt is not only gut-friendly and protein-rich, but it’s also layered with nutrients, including beta-carotene from the pumpkin.

To sweeten it, I use maple syrup; you can also use honey, or even leave it out for a super-healthy, autumn-flavored yogurt.

Ingredients photo for Pumpkin Yogurt Recipe

Ingredients

Ingredients photo for Pumpkin Yogurt Recipe

Greek Yogurt:
The creamy, protein-rich base that promotes digestive health.

Pumpkin Puree:
An ingredient that is low in calories and teeming with vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Maple Syrup or Honey:
Sweeteners of nature that grant a hint of sweetness and an abundance of antioxidants.

Vanilla Extract:
Aromatic enhancer, contributes richness and warmth to the flavors.

Ground Cinnamon:
Rich in antioxidants, spices support metabolism and provide balance to flavor.

Ground Nutmeg:
Spice with a fragrant aroma that provides a gentle warmth and is good for digestion.

Ground Ginger:
Provides a zippy punch, aids immune and digestive health.

Ingredient Quantities

  • 1 cup plain Greek yogurt

  • 1/2 cup pumpkin puree

  • 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey

  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl of medium size, combine 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt and 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree. Stir until completely blended.

2. Incorporate the sweetness by mixing well this mixture with 2 tablespoons of maple syrup or honey.

3. Add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract and stir until combined; this will flavor the mixture even more intensely.

4. Distribute the ground cinnamon evenly throughout the mixture by adding 1/2 teaspoon of it, and stir gently.

5. Mix together 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg and 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger, adding them to the mixture and blending them with the other spices so that the spices are well incorporated.

6. Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness and spices, and stir briefly.

7. Sample the blend and, if need be, tweak the sweetness or spices, making sure to mix well after any changes.

8. To achieve a smoother texture, whip the mixture vigorously for about a minute to get in some air.

9. Place the pumpkin yogurt into serving dishes or ramekins.

10. Enjoy now or chill for an hour or two to really let the flavors meld before serving.

Equipment Needed

1. Mixing bowl (medium size)
2. Measuring cups
3. Measuring spoons
4. Spoon or spatula (for mixing)
5. Whisk (for whipping air into the mixture)
6. Serving dishes or ramekins

FAQ

  • Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?You can use ordinary yogurt; however, Greek yogurt will provide a much thicker and creamier texture.

  • Is there a substitute for pumpkin puree?If required, you can use sweet potato puree instead, as it has a similar texture and flavor profile.

  • Can I use a sweetener other than maple syrup or honey?You can use agave syrup or a few drops of liquid stevia as substitutes, adjusting to your taste.

  • How do I make this recipe dairy-free?Replace Greek yogurt with a yogurt made from plants, like almond or coconut yogurt.

  • Can I add toppings to the pumpkin yogurt?Certainly! Think about incorporating granola, nuts, seeds, or dried fruits for added texture and taste.

  • How long does this pumpkin yogurt last in the refrigerator?When placed in an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator, it can maintain its freshness for as much as 3 days.

  • Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?Substitute the Greek yogurt for a vegan alternative, and use maple syrup instead of honey, and this recipe is now vegan.

Substitutions and Variations

Use vanilla Greek yogurt instead of plain Greek yogurt for added sweetness.
For a distinct flavor profile, use butternut squash puree in place of pumpkin puree.
Substitute agave syrup or a few drops of stevia for maple syrup or honey, and you have a lower-calorie option to get the same vegan-friendly sweetener in your recipes.
Use almond extract instead of vanilla extract to add a nutty note.
Instead of ground nutmeg, you could try using allspice for a slightly different spice flavor.