What Is Canned Pumpkin?
Canned pumpkin (labeled as “100% pure pumpkin”) is a purée of pure pumpkin mixed with other kinds of winter squash. It is unsweetened and does not contain any added spices. Canned pumpkin can be used as an ingredient in homemade pumpkin pie filling, pumpkin bread, pumpkin milkshakes, and so much more. In addition to flavor and bright orange color, it also adds tons of moistness to baked goods.
What Is Canned Pumpkin Pie Mix?
Store-bought pumpkin pie mix (sometimes labeled “pumpkin pie filling”) is a shortcut for making homemade pumpkin pie. It contains puréed pumpkin plus added spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves; sugar; and other chemical additives. When using pumpkin pie mix, all that you need to add is usually a couple of eggs and evaporated milk. While this is a great substitute for novice bakers or anyone who hasn’t made pumpkin pie before, it tastes sweeter than homemade pumpkin pie. And pumpkin pie mix cannot be used as a substitute for pure canned pumpkin since it is already sweetened and flavored.
Is Pumpkin Pie Mix Healthy?
Pumpkin pie mix contains approximately 120 calories and 19 grams of sugar per half cup (one can yields about 2 cups of mix total). Pumpkin pie made with a pre-made mix will most likely have more sugar than pumpkin pie made completely from scratch using pumpkin purée.
