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Creamy Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup with Spices Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting bowl of cozy flavors that warm you from the inside out, then this Creamy Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup with Spices Recipe might just become your new favorite. It’s got everything I love about fall in one pot: the sweetness of pumpkin and sweet potatoes balanced with just the right kick of warming spices. I remember the first time I made it on a chilly evening, and it instantly turned my kitchen into a fragrant haven and my mood into pure contentment.

This soup is incredibly versatile and comes together faster than you’d think, making it perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. Plus, the creamy texture without any heavy cream means it’s just rich enough without feeling heavy—perfect for anyone looking for a hearty but healthy meal. I always find myself making extra because it reheats beautifully for leftovers, which means more delicious lunches ahead!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient plays a star role, from the naturally sweet and creamy pumpkin and sweet potatoes to the bold spices that bring it all together. When shopping, look for fresh, firm sweet potatoes and a good quality canned pumpkin puree (not pie filling) to make sure your soup turns out smooth, flavorful, and vibrant.

  • Butter: Adds richness and helps soften the aromatics for deeper flavor.
  • Yellow onion: The sweet base that mellows during cooking and balances the spices.
  • Fresh garlic: For that punch of savory goodness; don’t skip it!
  • Fresh ginger: Adds a gentle warmth and subtle zing—grate it finely for the best texture.
  • Sweet potato: The heart of this soup; peeled and cubed for even cooking and smooth blending.
  • Tomato paste: A small amount builds umami and depth in the broth.
  • Chili powder: Gives a mild heat that wakes up the dish without overpowering it.
  • Dried oregano: Herbs for hint of earthiness and balance.
  • Kosher salt: Essential for enhancing every flavor note.
  • Cumin: Earthy and warm, it pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.
  • Cinnamon: A whisper of sweet spice that rounds out the flavor profile.
  • Pumpkin puree: The creamy base providing that signature pumpkin flavor.
  • Vegetable broth: Your soup’s liquid foundation; use low sodium if you want to control saltiness.
  • White wine vinegar: Adds brightness and balances the sweetness.
  • Maple syrup (optional): I often add this last for a subtle touch of natural sweetness that complements the spices.

Variations

I love that this Creamy Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup with Spices Recipe is easy to tweak to fit whatever mood you’re in or what you have on hand. Here are a few of my favorite ways to mix it up:

  • Variation: Sometimes I swap the vegetable broth for chicken broth for a richer, more savory flavor, especially when serving to family who prefer a heartier soup.
  • Variation: For a vegan or dairy-free version, just swap the butter for olive oil or coconut oil. It still gets that lovely depth without losing creaminess.
  • Variation: Want a bit more heat? Add a pinch of cayenne or a diced jalapeño with the onions. It gives that slow-building warmth I adore.
  • Variation: For extra texture, I’ve stirred in some roasted pumpkin seeds or crispy sage leaves right before serving—it’s a real treat.

How to Make Creamy Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup with Spices Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics in Butter

Start by melting the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and cook gently until it’s soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This base flavor is key — don’t rush it or cook on too high, or you’ll risk browning it instead of sweetening. Then add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about a minute until fragrant. This little step makes your kitchen smell amazing and builds layers of cozy flavor for the soup.

Step 2: Add Sweet Potatoes, Spices & Tomato Paste

Next, toss in the cubed sweet potatoes along with the tomato paste, chili powder, oregano, salt, cumin, and cinnamon. Stir everything together so the spices coat the sweet potatoes beautifully. This step lets those spices toast ever so slightly in the fat, intensifying their flavors. You’ll start noticing that signature blend of sweet, smoky, and warm notes right here.

Step 3: Pour in Broth and Pumpkin, Simmer Until Tender

Pour the vegetable broth and canned pumpkin puree into the pot and stir to combine. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. This is the heart of the cooking process, so don’t rush it—low and slow lets those flavors deepen beautifully.

Step 4: Blend Until Silky Smooth

Once everything’s tender, it’s time to blend! I prefer using an immersion blender directly in the pot — it’s quick and easy, and you don’t have to dirty extra dishes. Blend until you have a velvety, creamy soup with no lumps. If you don’t have an immersion blender, a regular blender works just fine; just be careful filling it and blend in batches.

Step 5: Finish with Vinegar and Maple Syrup

Finally, stir in the white wine vinegar, and if you like, the maple syrup. These just brighten up the flavors and add a subtle hint of sweetness that really ties everything together. Taste and adjust any seasoning now — maybe a little more salt or spice depending on your preference.

How to Serve Creamy Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup with Spices Recipe

Creamy Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup with Spices Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

I usually top my bowls with a swirl of coconut cream or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil—it adds a beautiful contrast and extra richness. A sprinkle of toasted pumpkin seeds brings a wonderful crunch, and fresh herbs like chopped parsley or sage add brightness and make it feel really special. I always keep these garnishes handy because they transform a simple soup into a bowl that looks as good as it tastes.

Side Dishes

To make a full meal, I often serve this Creamy Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup with crusty artisan bread or garlic naan for dipping. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs nicely too, balancing the soup’s creamy richness. For a heartier option, grilled cheese or roasted vegetable sandwiches are always crowd-pleasers alongside this soup.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like serving the soup in mini pumpkin bowls—just hollow out small sugar pumpkins for a charming presentation that guests love. You can also set up a garnish station with chopped herbs, seeds, spices, and creamy dollops of yogurt or sour cream so everyone customizes their bowl. It makes the experience fun and interactive!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

When I have leftovers, I let the soup cool to room temperature then transfer it to airtight containers before popping it in the fridge. It keeps wonderfully for up to 4 days. I always label the container with the date so I remember exactly when I made it. That way, I can enjoy the same comforting bowl without any guesswork.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this Creamy Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup with Spices Recipe many times with great results. Just portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space as it expands. Frozen soup lasts about 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw overnight in the fridge, and it’s ready to reheat—easy and perfect for busy days.

Reheating

I like reheating on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to bring it back to that silky texture. If it seems too thick after refrigeration, just stir in a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up. Microwaving works too, but I prefer the stove so I can watch the consistency and season if needed.

FAQs

  1. Can I use canned sweet potatoes instead of fresh?

    While fresh sweet potatoes give the best texture and flavor, you can use canned sweet potatoes in a pinch. Just be mindful that canned versions might be softer and slightly less sweet, so adjust cooking time and seasoning accordingly.

  2. Is this Creamy Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup with Spices Recipe vegan?

    Yes! If you swap the butter for a plant-based fat like olive oil or coconut oil, this soup is completely vegan. The rest of the ingredients are naturally plant-based.

  3. How spicy is this soup?

    The chili powder adds a mild warmth that’s easy to enjoy even if you’re sensitive to spice. You can always adjust the amount to your liking—less for a gentle hint or a bit more if you like a kick.

  4. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

    Absolutely! Start by sautéing the aromatics on the stove, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours until sweet potatoes are tender. Blend it afterwards for that creamy finish.

  5. Will this soup keep well for meal prep?

    Definitely. It stores beautifully in the fridge for several days and freezes well, making it a great choice for prepping lunches or dinners ahead of time.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup with Spices Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s an easy way to bring warmth and nutrition to the whole family. I love that it’s simple to make, yet feels luxurious and indulgent with every spoonful. Once you try it, I have a feeling you’ll find yourself coming back to it whenever you need a little comfort food hug. So go ahead, give it a go—you won’t regret it!

Print
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Creamy Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup with Spices Recipe

  • Author: Isabella
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free

Description

This hearty Pumpkin Sweet Potato Soup combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin and sweet potatoes with warming spices like chili powder, cumin, and cinnamon to create a comforting and flavorful soup. Enhanced with garlic, onion, and a touch of acidity from white wine vinegar, this soup offers a perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and tangy notes. It’s an ideal dish for chilly days, offering a nutritious and satisfying meal that is both vegan and gluten free.


Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced (~1 ¼ cups)
  • 2 teaspoons (~3 cloves) fresh garlic, minced
  • ½ tablespoon fresh ginger, finely minced or grated

Main Vegetables & Puree

  • 1 ½ pounds sweet potato, peeled and cut into ½ inch cubes (about 5 cups)
  • 1 15 ounce can pumpkin puree

Spices & Seasonings

  • 23 teaspoons chili powder, depending on preferred spice level
  • 1 ½ teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 ¼ teaspoons fine kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon

Other Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
  • 1 ½ teaspoons maple syrup (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Aromatics: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced yellow onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until aromatic but not browned.
  2. Add Sweet Potatoes and Tomato Paste: Add the cubed sweet potatoes to the pot, and stir in the tomato paste, mixing well to coat the vegetables evenly and deepen their flavor.
  3. Season the Soup: Sprinkle in the chili powder, dried oregano, kosher salt, cumin, and cinnamon. Stir thoroughly to incorporate all the spices with the vegetables and tomato paste.
  4. Add Pumpkin Puree and Broth: Pour in the canned pumpkin puree and vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and allow to cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
  5. Blend the Soup: Using an immersion blender, blend the soup directly in the pot until smooth and creamy. If using a regular blender, carefully transfer the soup in batches and puree until smooth, then return to the pot.
  6. Finish with Vinegar and Maple Syrup: Stir in the white wine vinegar to add a subtle acidity that balances the soup’s sweetness. If desired, add the maple syrup for extra sweetness. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Serve Warm: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm, optionally garnished with herbs or a drizzle of olive oil.

Notes

  • For a vegan version, substitute butter with olive oil or a plant-based margarine.
  • Adjust chili powder quantity to control heat level according to preference.
  • The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Add a splash of coconut milk for a creamier texture and subtle coconut flavor.
  • Use low sodium vegetable broth to better control overall saltiness.

Keywords: pumpkin soup, sweet potato soup, vegan soup, gluten free soup, autumn recipes, hearty soup, vegetable soup, healthy soup

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