Nothing ushers in sweater weather like a steaming bowl of Spiced Pumpkin and Apple Soup. This irresistible soup brings together velvety pumpkin, tart apples, and a medley of warm spices in each spoonful. It’s a comforting, wholesome meal that manages to feel both nostalgic and new—perfect for cozy nights, casual gatherings, or just celebrating all things autumn. Serve it with crusty bread or as a stunning starter, and watch it disappear in minutes!

Spiced Pumpkin and Apple Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of pantry-friendly ingredients to make magic happen here. Each one plays an essential role, adding sweetness, richness, or the hint of spice that makes this soup so unforgettable.

Butter: Creates a rich base for sautéing, enhancing the sweetness of onion and apples.
Onion: Gives the soup a savory backbone and gentle sweetness after cooking.
Apples: Add a bright, tart contrast that lightens the pumpkin and balances the spices.
Pumpkin purée: The heart of the soup, for creamy texture and gorgeous color; canned or homemade both work beautifully.
Vegetable broth: Adds body and depth, tying everything together with savory notes.
Cinnamon: Brings essential autumn warmth—don’t skip it!
Nutmeg: Offers an earthy, aromatic note that joins perfectly with pumpkin.
Cream or coconut milk: Swirled in at the end for silky richness and a pretty finish.

How to Make Spiced Pumpkin and Apple Soup

Step 1: Sauté Your Base

Begin by melting the butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and chopped apples, stirring often. As they cook, the onions will turn translucent and the apples will start to soften—a sweet and savory aroma will fill your kitchen, hinting at the delicious soup to come.

Step 2: Add Pumpkin and Spices

Next, stir in the pumpkin purée, followed by the vegetable broth, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This is when the flavors start to come together in earnest, as the spices bloom and the pumpkin adds its signature velvetiness. Mix gently to combine everything smoothly.

Step 3: Simmer and Blend

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for about 15 minutes. This short simmer coaxes the flavors into harmony and fully softens the apples. Once everything is tender, remove from heat and carefully blend the soup until completely smooth—either with an immersion blender or in batches using a standard blender. Take your time here; the creamier, the better!

Step 4: Finish with Cream

With the soup beautifully pureed, stir in the cream or coconut milk. This last touch lends a silky finish and makes the soup extra luscious. Taste and season with salt and pepper if you’d like, then ladle into bowls and serve immediately—or keep it warm on the stove until you’re ready for those first cozy sips.

How to Serve Spiced Pumpkin and Apple Soup

Garnishes

The right garnish isn’t just about looks—it’s about adding flavor and a little crunch. Try topping your Spiced Pumpkin and Apple Soup with toasted pumpkin seeds, a swirl of cream or coconut milk, or even a few crispy sage leaves. A pinch of extra cinnamon or ground black pepper right before serving is also delightful.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs like a dream with a hunk of crusty bread for dipping, a warm cheesy baguette, or even a crisp autumn salad with apples, arugula, and walnuts. It’s filling enough to stand as its own meal, but versatile enough to complement your favorite warm fall sides.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, serve Spiced Pumpkin and Apple Soup in small pumpkin bowls, elegant soup mugs, or even shot glasses for a fall-themed party appetizer. Swirling in a bit of extra cream or topping each bowl with microgreens instantly elevates the presentation—almost too pretty to eat…but only almost!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Spiced Pumpkin and Apple Soup can be cooled and refrigerated in an airtight container for up to four days. The flavors actually deepen and mellow with time, making it even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

You’ll be happy to know this soup freezes well! Cool it completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion. It will keep beautifully in the freezer for up to three months—just hold off on adding the cream until after reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if it’s too thick. If you’re adding cream after freezing, stir it in once the soup is hot and smooth.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of pumpkin purée?

Absolutely! Simply roast or steam your fresh pumpkin and purée it until smooth. Allow a little extra time for this step, and you’ll be rewarded with even more color and flavor.

What type of apples work best in Spiced Pumpkin and Apple Soup?

Tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp offer the best balance, providing just enough acidity to brighten the soup without overpowering the pumpkin’s mellow sweetness.

Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute coconut milk for cream and use plant-based butter for sautéing. The result is just as creamy, with subtle coconut notes that complement the spices.

How can I make the soup spicier?

For an extra kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of freshly grated ginger along with the cinnamon and nutmeg. This lends gentle heat and complexity.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Yes, this recipe scales up perfectly. Just make sure your soup pot is large enough and blend the soup in batches if necessary. It’s a fantastic make-ahead option for entertaining.

Final Thoughts

Warm, bright, and surprisingly easy, Spiced Pumpkin and Apple Soup is the kind of recipe you’ll reach for again and again every autumn. Gather your favorite mugs and invite friends or family over for a taste of cozy—your kitchen will smell heavenly, and everyone will ask for seconds (and the recipe)!