Pumpkin soup is the perfect dish to welcome fall with its smooth, creamy texture and comforting flavors.

This easy-to-make soup is rich with savory herbs, garlic, and onions, and finished with a splash of heavy cream for that luxurious touch. Whether you serve it for a cozy dinner or at a holiday gathering, it's sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Simple Ingredients for Flavorful Pumpkin Soup

To make this delightful pumpkin soup, you'll need the following ingredients:

• Stock: Choose either homemade or store-bought chicken stock.

• Pumpkin Puree: Use either canned or freshly made pumpkin puree for a rich base.

• Onion and Garlic: These essential aromatics will bring depth and flavor.

• Seasonings: Add salt, peppercorns, and spices such as nutmeg and cinnamon.

• Whipping Cream: This ingredient ensures a creamy, velvety texture.

• Fresh Herbs: Use thyme for seasoning, and garnish with fresh parsley for added freshness.

How To Make The Best Creamy Pumpkin Soup

Video by Chef Jack Ovens

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Pumpkin Soup

1. Sauté the aromatics: Start by heating olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add chopped onions and cook until softened and browned (about 10 minutes). Add peppercorns, minced garlic, and fresh thyme, stirring often for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

2. Cook the pumpkin puree: Stir in the pumpkin puree and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until the puree darkens a bit.

3. Add the stock and spices: Pour in the chicken stock, maple syrup (optional), salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook, uncovered, for about 30 minutes until the soup slightly reduces and the flavors meld.

4. Blend the soup: Carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth. Return it to the saucepan and stir in the heavy cream. Let the soup simmer for another 4 minutes to heat through.

5. Garnish and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly chopped parsley.

Pro Tips for Extra Flavor

• Remove canned flavors: If using canned pumpkin puree, cook it for about 5 minutes before adding it to the soup. This helps remove any metallic or freezer taste.

• Make your own puree: For deeper flavor, roast fresh pumpkin before blending it into puree. Roasting enhances the natural sweetness and nuttiness of the pumpkin.

How to Serve Your Pumpkin Soup

For the perfect fall meal, serve your pumpkin soup with Crusty Dutch Oven Bread and a refreshing Cranberry Spinach Salad. You can also get creative with toppings such as toasted nuts, roasted chickpeas, or freshly grated cheese to give the soup a personal touch.

Storing and Freezing Your Pumpkin Soup

• Storing leftovers: Keep any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat it thoroughly before serving.

• Freezing for later: You can freeze this soup for up to three months. Freeze it in smaller batches to thaw only what you need. Thaw overnight in the fridge, and reheat on the stove for a comforting meal anytime.

What Others Are Saying

Many reviewers love this recipe for its rich, creamy texture and the simple ingredients that come together to create a satisfying dish. Some have even shared unique twists, such as adding a hot pepper for a kick, or serving the soup in a hollowed-out pumpkin for an impressive presentation.